CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Kenwood High School opened 28 years ago, in 1997, and Knights basketball superfan James Spain has been courtside every step of the way.

After an 11-year career in the Army, Spain moved to Clarksville in 1977. Twenty years later, when Kenwood opened, Spain’s son began to play for the Knights boys’ basketball team. From that point forward, Spain supported the team, as well as the girls’ basketball team, showing up for every game that he could, home or away, even long after his son graduated.

In addition to his support as a fan, Spain coached the Kenwood Middle School girls’ team from 2008-12. In 2022, Spain was recognized with his own designated seat in the gym.

“I’ve sat in that same seat since 1997, and I appreciate the faculty for recognizing that,” Spain told Clarksville Now. “I try to do everything I can to support the program. I ran the concession stand for years, and we’ve paid for meals for kids; I just want to support the players in any way possible and show them what a great community we are.”

Spain’s loyalty goes beyond Kenwood; he also supports all the basketball teams in the city once Kenwood has been eliminated from the playoffs. This includes most recently being there to support the Clarksville High girls team during their playoff push, as well as the Kirkwood High boys’ team.

“I think we need more people like me who support the whole city,” said Spain. “There are other kids and family members that I know that play on those teams, and they deserve that support. I’m going to continue to do that as long as I’m able.”

‘James isn’t just a fan, he’s part of Kenwood’

Spain impact over the years has been felt by several coaches, including the current Kenwood coaches.

“It means everything. James isn’t just a fan – he’s part of Kenwood,” boys coach Chase Cronin told Clarksville Now. “That’s why he has a nameplate to reserve his seat at The Castle every night. Our admin has recognized it, our students, our parents, and most importantly, our players. Not only does he come to our games, but he genuinely shows love to me and the players. We couldn’t ask for a better dude to support us like James.”

Girls coach Jemiah Harrison agreed.

“James Spain has been a staple of the community for years, showing unwavering dedication to not only Kenwood High School but the city as well,” said Harrison. “He has been supporting athletics since I was a kid playing basketball at Rossview, and it’s crazy to see this still today. His continued presence at every game is a testament to his commitment to the school and the entire Clarksville community. His loyalty and passion are what make this special, and you don’t get that often.”

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Kirkwood High boys coach John Stigall, who previously coached at Kenwood, also speaks highly of Spain.

“He embodies what a high school basketball supporter is all about in Clarksville,” said Stigall. “His passion for the game and his love for the kids in this community are unmatched. I first met him when I was coaching at Kenwood, and ever since, he has continued supporting my teams and basketball all over the city. Every kid knows him, and they all feel his energy. He’s a true ambassador for the game, and we need more people like him who genuinely care about the sport and the young athletes who play it.”

Many people will recognize Spain for being a basketball fanatic, or for regularly wearing bright colors, including his trademarked orange socks. However, the main thing that separates Spain is his care for kids in Clarksville.

“You’ve got a lot of kids who don’t have parents that come to games, and I try to be someone they can look to for support,” said Spain. “If they ask me for anything, I’ll always help them out. When the kids look up in the stands, they want to see people that want them to succeed, and I’ve supported every single one of them.”

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