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By C.Y. Peters

Russell Kyte’s story is one of transformation, dedication, and lifelong respect. Raised on Gap Creek, Kyte had never been in a gym before he stepped onto the floor as a freshman at Happy Valley High School. This first step was a literal misstep, as he walked onto the gym floor with his regular street shoes on, an act that quickly caught the attention of a stern voice: “Keep your feet off and don’t get on it no more.” The kids around him quickly informed him that the voice belonged to Mr. Charlie Bayless, the revered coach of Happy Valley. Although Kyte didn’t know Bayless at the time, he quickly learned to respect him, never stepping onto the floor again without his tennis shoes.

Under the guidance of Coach Bayless, Kyte’s freshman and sophomore years saw him playing on the junior varsity team, where they went undefeated in his sophomore season. Harry Sisk, the B-Team coach at the time, was instrumental in shaping the young team’s dynamics. Happy Valley had to play against all schools since there were no divisions, a challenge that Kyte and his teammates embraced wholeheartedly.

Among the standout players of that era was Danny Webster, whom Kyte regarded as one of the best players ever. “Danny missed half a season two years and still scored over 1,000 points. He could flat out play,” Kyte recalled with admiration. Webster’s skill and dedication were sources of inspiration and camaraderie for Kyte and the team.

During Kyte’s time at Happy Valley, the school won the conference in all four major sports. In 1962, the basketball team had a remarkable season, defeating powerhouses like Science Hill and Dobyns-Bennett. However, their journey was not without setbacks. In the Regional Final, they faced Hampton in a double-overtime thriller. Jerry White and his Hampton teammates emerged victorious, but both teams advanced to the State Tournament.

The State Tournament was a mix of highs and lows for Kyte and his team. Happy Valley lost in the first round to Donelson, 56-52, despite leading 15-13 at the first stop and 33-27 at halftime. Against Donelson, Kyte scored eight points, Danny Webster, playing most of the game in foul trouble, scored 13, and Wendell Davis led the way with 18. The game was witnessed by over 7,000 spectators, a testament to the team’s local support and the high stakes of the match.

Kyte also recalled a memorable game against Unicoi County when he went to Webster’s house after school for supper. “He ate three hamburgers and a sack full of taters. I fussed at him, but afterward, he scored 35 points and we won the game. Webster was an amazing basketball player,” reminisced Kyte. These personal anecdotes highlight the camaraderie and friendship that formed the backbone of their team spirit.

Off the court, Kyte’s relationship with Bayless evolved into a deep friendship. They played golf together and watched football games alongside Carroll Buck, Jack Street, and Bobby Joe Sams. Kyte admired Bayless immensely, stating, “Bayless is number one to me and always will be. He was a great coach and is a great friend.”

One of the most memorable moments for Kyte came in 1974 when he had the honor of handing Bayless the keys to his new car after Happy Valley won the state title. The Bayless family still has the car, a symbol of the triumph and deep bonds formed during those years.

Russell Kyte’s journey from a novice stepping onto the gym floor in street shoes to a respected player under Coach Bayless’s mentorship is a story of growth, respect, and lifelong friendships. His experiences at Happy Valley, both on and off the court, have left an indelible mark on his life, shaping him into the person he is today.