As it goes every year, Pierre Post 8 recognizes a Hometown Hero whether it’s someone in the community being a huge supporter of Post 8 or someone who has directly been involved with Post 8. This year, the award goes to the late coach, Bill Gayton.
Gayton was part of the coaching staff when the Eights won the state championship in 2017, but even more than wins and losses, Gayton was instrumental to the success of kids on the baseball field and in life. For decades, Gayton dedicated himself to helping young players grow not only as athletes, but as people. He was a teacher at heart and believed in hard work, preparation and giving every player an opportunity to succeed. The countless hours at the ballpark, whether throwing batting practice or working on the field with members on the team, Gayton was always willing to offer encouragement and share knowledge of the game and Gayton was a big advocate for players who needed someone to believe in them. It’s easy to find any player who Gayton coached and the glowing words they would share about Gayton and what he did for Post 8 and the amount of players he influenced. Gayton passed away at the age of 88 on February 16 of this year. A celebration of life is planned to be held in September this year.
Gayton’s family will be at Hyde Stadium on Friday to receive the award between game one and two of the doubleheader against Spearfish. First pitch on Friday of game one is at 4:00.
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