Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools
On Monday evening, April 13, Sheridan softball fanatics gathered at the new Godby Stadium for the opening matchup. The night also served as the dedication to the new facility, Godby Home Furnishings Stadium. The evening both honored the future and legacy of Blackhawk athletics, specifically the softball program.
High School Principal Rick Davis opened the evening by sharing the story being the stadium’s name. The Godby family and Godby Home Furnishings have built a legacy that all started in the Sheridan community. Jim Godby, Godby Home Furnishings founder, started his business back in 1974.
“It’s a story of hard work, perseverance, and giving back,” Davis said. “They never left Sheridan behind.”
Superintendent Dave Mundy continued the momentum by recognizing longtime coach Danny Christian, whose impact on Sheridan’s softball program spans more than two decades. Christian began in 2000 as a JV baseball coach before transitioning to the softball program.
“He put in countless hours behind the scenes,” Mundy said. “Washing uniforms, raking fields, doing whatever needed to be done. That kind of commitment showed up in the culture he built. What truly defines Coach Christian isn’t just what happened on the scoreboard. It’s the lives he impacted.”
Christian has been an avid advocate for girls athletics and has had a lasting impact on the student-athletes at Sheridan Community Schools.
Before officially “pitching in” the new field, Davis said, “This field is not just a new facility. It’s a symbol of what can happen when people choose to invest back into their community.”
Godby Home Furnishings Stadium marks a new chapter for Sheridan softball and athletics, while still honoring the legacy that “raked” the way.
Sheridan Community Schools’ longtime coach Danny Christian was recognized as part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Godby Stadium. (Photos provided by Allison Waitt)
