Jimmy Ensor: a pillar of Elizabethton sports
Published 12:47 pm Thursday, July 25, 2024
Contributed Photo As a senior at Elizabethton High School in 1963, Jimmy Ensor was a formidable presence on the baseball field. His skillfulness playing as an infielder earned him the prestigious title of All-Big 7 Conference infielder by the Upper East Tennessee Sports Writers Association.
Contributed Photo Jimmy Ensor and his family pose for a picture during his Carter County Sports Hall of Fame induction.
Contributed Photo Larry Bowling and Jimmy Ensor.
Contributed Photo Jimmy Ensor (left) inducted Coach Bobby Chambers (right) into the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
Contributed Photo Jimmy Ensor was inducted into the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021.
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By C.Y. Peters
In the tapestry of Elizabethton’s rich sports history, few figures stand out as prominently as Jimmy Ensor. A versatile athlete and dedicated contributor to youth sports, Ensor’s legacy is a testament to his passion and commitment to the community he cherished.
As a senior at Elizabethton High School in 1963, Jimmy Ensor was a formidable presence on the baseball field. His skillfulness playing as an infielder earned him the prestigious title of All-Big 7 Conference infielder by the Upper East Tennessee Sports Writers Association. Whether at shortstop or on the mound, Ensor’s skills were undeniable. He boasted a commendable .340 batting average and tied for the team lead in pitching wins with three. His athletic abilities extended beyond baseball;
Ensor also played basketball for the Cyclones, where his performance garnered an honorable mention all-conference accolade from the UETSWA. He played a pivotal role in helping Elizabethton secure a share of the 1962-63 Big 7 crown.
Yet, Ensor’s influence on Elizabethton sports was just beginning. His contributions to youth sports leagues were substantial and multifaceted. As a manager, coach, administrator, and official, Ensor dedicated countless hours to nurturing young athletes and fostering a love for the game. His passion for sports was not confined to baseball and basketball;
He was a mainstay on the fast-pitch softball circuit, traveling extensively to compete. Ensor played on several teams, often alongside local legends like Jarfly Dugger and Willie Malone. His presence on the field was not only a testament to his skill but also his enduring love for the game.
Ensor’s dedication to fast-pitch softball was matched by his commitment to officiating. He traveled to numerous games with his fellow official, Johnny Holder, becoming a familiar and respected figure in the sports community. Later, he transitioned to umpiring softball games at local parks and recreation leagues, where his fair and knowledgeable officiating earned him widespread respect.
One of the hallmarks of Ensor’s career was his ability to connect with young athletes. His coaching style was characterized by a blend of discipline and encouragement, fostering both skill development and a love for the sport. Many young players who came under his guidance remember him not only as a coach but as a mentor who cared deeply about their growth both on and off the field.
Ensor’s impact on the community extended beyond the sports field. His involvement in youth sports programs helped shape the character and values of countless young athletes. His legacy is seen in the sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication exhibited by the players he coached and mentored.
In Elizabethton, where the Cyclone spirit runs deep, Jimmy Ensor’s contributions to sports and the community are remembered with great fondness and respect. His journey from a standout high school athlete to a dedicated coach and official is a story of passion, commitment, and the enduring power of sports to bring people together.
In Coach Bobby Chambers final years, he could be seen with Jimmy traveling to many high school gyms to watch basketball athletes. Ensor inducted Chambers into the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame. Ensor himself was inducted in 2021.
Ensor’s life and career serve as an inspiration to all who know him and to future generations of athletes who aspire to follow in his footsteps. Jimmy Ensor’s story is a reminder that true sports legends are not only measured by their achievements on the field but also by their contributions off it. Through his dedication to youth sports and his unwavering support for the community, Ensor has left an indelible mark on Elizabethton, ensuring that his legacy will be remembered for years to come.
