Jim Gilligan Days set for May 13-16

Heading into his final weekend as a head coach in the dugout at Vincent-Beck Stadium, the City of Beaumont made a proclamation Tuesday stating that May 13-15 will be designated as Jim Gilligan Days around the town for the years of service he has provided Lamar University and the Beaumont community.

“It was very, very nice of Mayor (Becky Ames) and the city council to present this to me. Tell everybody they have off for the next three days,” said Gilligan with a grin.

Gilligan was joined at City Hall by assistant coach (and head coach in waiting) Will Davis, two players Will Hibbs and Travis Moore as well as clubhouse assistant Nolan Frost. Big Red and various members of the Lamar University athletics department were there to share in his celebration.

“It was quite an honor, and I am absolutely speechless over receiving this. There are many more deserving people than me,” said Gilligan. “I really want to thank Jim Ishee for setting this up. He’s been a great friend to me for a long, long time. Everyone needs a Jim Ishee because then they can get a street named after them and have a day in their honor.”

The 39-year head coach at Lamar University ranks 13^th all-time among NCAA Division I head coaches approaching 1,350 wins in his career. His final weekend at The Beck will be spent trying to lock up a spot in the SLC Tournament and working for a higher seed.

Saturday’s contest, May 14, will be stay in theme with the city’s proclamation as Jim Gilligan Day. Fans are encouraged to arrive early and take part in the pregame festivities surrounding his celebration. For fans that walk up the day of the game, tickets will be sold at $1, and $1 Hot Dog Day, sponsored by Chartwells.

While supplies last, Lamar athletics will be handing out commemorative Jim Gilligan stadium cups and free autographed mini bats. There will also be a bounce house for the children in attendance.

“The last out may bring a tear to my eye,” he said. “I’ve been focused on a not worrying about it being the last, but that these are three games that are crucial to our season.”

The series gets started a 6 p.m. Friday, and the Jim Gilligan Day contest is slated to start at 2 o’clock Saturday. Fans are encouraged to start showing up around 1:00 in case of crowds and to get settled before the festivities begin. The series finale, Senior Day, will start at 1 p.m. Sunday.