The Role of Alumni Student-Athletes
Alumni student-athletes play a vital role in the ongoing success and spirit of the Golden Eagle family. Their achievements and experiences serve as an inspiration to current and future athletes, demonstrating the lasting impact of dedication, teamwork, and school pride. By staying connected, alumni contribute to a strong, supportive community, sharing their knowledge, mentoring younger athletes, and participating in events and fundraising efforts. Their continued involvement helps preserve the rich tradition of excellence at Big Walnut, ensuring that the Golden Eagle legacy thrives for generations to come.
Don "Red" Edwards dedicated an incredible 65 years to coaching track and field at Big Walnut High School.
A 1956 graduate of Big Walnut, Red was deeply rooted in the Big Walnut and Sunbury community, where his family owned a parts business and he later became a founding member of the Sunbury Historical Society.
After working as a custodian at the high school for 26 years, Red retired in 2002 but continued his coaching legacy without missing a single season. In 1989, he transformed a former rental home into the Big Walnut Athletic Museum, a cherished space where teams would gather and where the history of Big Walnut athletics was preserved.
Red's remarkable career included coaching 20 state qualifiers, 3 state champions, and earning numerous awards, including the Ed Barker Award and the OHSAA Dedication of Service award.
Inducted into the Big Walnut Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002, Red's legacy lives on through the annual Red Edwards Golden Eagle Relays, now in its 46th season.