CHS two-sport star, played two sports for Cumberland University. Member of CHS basketball team that did not lose a district game in four years (137-12 overall, three state tourney trips). Scored over 2,200 points in high school, making all-Midstate and second-team all-state as a senior. Prolific high school pitcher and home run hitter as a four-year starter. Played both sports at Cumberland, scoring over 30 points in basketball multiple times. 

“You don’t appreciate how much those days mean to you when you are playing,” Strong said, “but you look back and realize now.

“When we played we had some great athletes and not just in basketball.  Not many people know what a good baseball team we had and I want to thank coach Don Sherrells for caring about us back then.  He really went out of his way for us.

“It was great to play with Joey (Coe) and Jeff (Arms), but we had so many others that helped us get there that didn’t get the recognition.  Thomas (Watson)–we owe it all to him, and like many of you know, he was more than just a coach to me.  Thanks so much.”