Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Legend of Jarfly Dugger: A Softball Maestro’s Tale

Jarfly Dugger is a legend—a titan among the people of Elizabethton, an unsung hero to some, and a revered figure to many.

Born and raised in the humble Eastside community, Jarfly’s legacy was crafted upon the dusty diamonds of Cherokee Park, where the crack of a bat and the thunderous cheers of the crowd were a symphony to his ears.
His journey to greatness started quietly, unnoticed by most, but destined for the records of sporting history.

After his time at Elizabethton High School, Jarfly answered the call to serve, becoming a Navy Corpsman with the Marines, stationed in Okinawa from ’66 to ’70. Little did the world know that this stint would shape a legend in the making.

Upon his return home, the yarns spun around Jarfly began to weave a tapestry of awe and admiration. Softball became his forte, his skill as a pitcher unmatched. He traversed borders, leaving trails of victories and earning a reputation that transcended the boundaries of East Tennessee.

The accolades poured in. South Carolina, recognizing his dominance over its teams, inducted him into its Sports Hall of Fame—a testament to Jarfly’s unparalleled skill. Japan witnessed his skillness too, as he donned the United States jersey, proving his mettle on international soil.

But it wasn’t just his athletic feats that cemented his legacy; it was the camaraderie, the unspoken bond he shared with his teammates. From Willie Malone to Scotty Bunton, each name etched into the chapters of his story, echoing tales of unity and unwavering friendship.

Jarfly’s pitches were a symphony of precision—fastballs that cracked through the air, risers that defied gravity, and a change-up so tantalizingly slow that batters swung in vain. The World Famous King and his Court fell victim to his mastery, an indication of his indomitable spirit on the field.

Reflecting on his humble beginnings, Jarfly credited Clyde “Baldy” Bullock, his first coach and mentor, for igniting the fire within. Baldy’s Marine training infused discipline and determination, shaping the young pitcher’s aspirations and propelling him toward greatness.

Through the years, Jarfly switched teams, each transition marking a new chapter in his storied career. Carter County Bank, Rawl Coal Company, and Camara Inn became more than just names on jerseys—they were the battlegrounds where legends were born, and victories immortalized.

Beyond the realm of sports, Jarfly’s influence extended far and wide. His dedication to nurturing talent saw him become a guiding light for aspiring softball players across schools in the region. From Unaka to Happy Valley, his expertise was sought after, molding young minds and honing their skills for the diamond.

The echoes of Jarfly’s legacy reverberated not just in the trophies and championships but in the lives he touched. His impact went beyond the softball field, empowering countless students to reach for the stars, teaching them not just the game but the values of resilience, teamwork, and determination.

As time continued its relentless march forward, Jarfly’s name remained etched in the hallowed halls of East Tennessee. He stood not just as a sports icon but as a beacon of inspiration—a testament to the unwavering spirit of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter the odds.

In the windswept fields of Cherokee Park, the name of Jarfly Dugger lingered—a legend, a friend, a mentor, forever etched into the folklore of East Tennessee. For there was only one Jarfly Dugger, and his story would echos through the ages, a testament to the power of passion and the resilience of the human spirit.

On Thursday night at Unaka High School, Richard Jarfly Dugger will be honored by the ladies he has coached and mentored through the years. All his former students are asked to attend.