Cassell named Perseverance Award winner, Fisher named coach of the year

Craig County sophomore honored for overcoming physical limitations, football coach recognized for turnaround season

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Craig County High School sophomore Clayton Cassell was awarded the inaugural "Clayton Cassell Perseverance Award" for his courageous journey overcoming physical limitations and inspiring his community. Additionally, Craig County football coach Jimmy Fisher was named the WSLS 1st and 10 Coach of the Year after leading the team to a turnaround season.

Why it matters

The perseverance award named after Cassell highlights the power of determination and resilience, even in the face of physical challenges. Meanwhile, Fisher's coaching award recognizes the impact of strong leadership in transforming a struggling program into a success story, inspiring the local community.

The details

Cassell, a sophomore at Craig County High School, has shown remarkable perseverance both on the football field and in the classroom, working hard to adapt and overcome his physical limitations. His inspiring story and positive attitude have resonated with hundreds in the community. Meanwhile, coach Jimmy Fisher was recognized for his leadership in guiding the Craig County football team to a successful 2025 season, a turnaround from previous years when the team struggled.

  • In November 2025, Cassell was first featured for his perseverance during the football season.
  • Recently, Cassell was awarded the inaugural "Clayton Cassell Perseverance Award" at Craig County High School.
  • Coach Fisher was awarded the WSLS 1st and 10 Coach of the Year award.

The players

Clayton Cassell

A sophomore at Craig County High School who was awarded the inaugural "Clayton Cassell Perseverance Award" for overcoming physical limitations and inspiring his community.

Jimmy Fisher

The head football coach at Craig County High School, who was named the WSLS 1st and 10 Coach of the Year after leading the team to a successful 2025 season, a turnaround from previous years.

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What they’re saying

“As I see that I can, I start to adapt and see that I'm not just somebody who can't do something.”

— Clayton Cassell (WSLS)

“He works just as hard, sometimes more mentally than half of the kids out there.”

— Clayton Cassell's mother (WSLS)

“I'm glad that people get to see who I am and just the ability to witness to others that I can do things and that just where I am now is just a wonderful place to be and that I'm not ashamed of who I am, that just being able to do what I do, which is great.”

— Clayton Cassell (WSLS)

“It's humbling because, like I say, when we were in those years two and six, I was working just as hard, you know. We just were able to put the stuff together for the kids and the other coaches. To me, this is a team award or a whole coaching staff award and not an individual award because, you know, the kids, the kids got to do the work, the coaches got to put in the time, you know, we're out there painting the field at 10 o'clock at night and the neighbors are complaining about the lights being on and how much electricity it's costing, but, you know, we're out there doing it, so.”

— Jimmy Fisher, Head Football Coach, Craig County High School (WSLS)

What’s next

Cassell will continue his athletic pursuits, competing in basketball and soccer for the Craig County Rockets in the upcoming seasons.

The takeaway

The stories of Clayton Cassell and Jimmy Fisher exemplify the power of perseverance, determination, and strong leadership in overcoming challenges and inspiring a community. Their achievements serve as a testament to the transformative impact that can come from embracing one's abilities and committing to a shared vision of success.