LITTLE ROCK, Ark — Dallas Cowboys owner and Arkansas native Jerry Jones in Little Rock Wednesday for a special unveiling.
The pro footballl hall of famer stood in front of a crowd at Catholic High School for the dedication of the new ‘Gene and Jerry Jones Family Academic and Athletic Annex’ his family helped build.
“We just wanted to do what I’ve seen done so many times,” said Jones. “Inspire young people to be involved in sports.”
Jones, along with his two sons and son-in-law, took a tour of the 30-thousand square foot building.
It houses three classrooms, four offices, an indoor practice facility and much more.
“Just proud to be a part of this,” said Jones.
Both his sons played football for Catholic High in the 1980’s. Stephen Jones said the principal then, Father George Tribou, was like a second father.
“[He] gave me so much. I mean there are a lot of young men who don’t have a father. I was so lucky to have one, very special … and then on top of that I had a mentor in Father Tribou who taught me so many things,” said Stephen.
He felt it only right to help his alma mater.
“We’ve been so fortunate and so blessed in terms of our resources and then to be able to give a little back after everything that was given to us is special,” said Stephen.
The building — also meant to boost young athletes self-esteem.
“In the old locker room, when we were done, it was like a race to get out of here and now they stick around and they hang out and they do extra stuff on their own,” said John Fogleman, Catholic High School Football Coach.
“By participating in sports those young men and women get confidence and that carries through to everything,” said Jones.
The Jones family said they are always rooting for the ‘Rockets’ … the names of Catholic High’s sports teams.
