JL Mann Athletics is proud to announce the 2026 JL Mann Athletic Hall of Fame Class, honoring coaches, student-athletes, and athletic leaders whose achievements have left a lasting impact on Patriot athletics. The induction ceremony will be held at 7:00 PM during a pre-game ceremony at the JL Mann/Laurens football game on Friday, August 21, 2026, celebrating individuals whose dedication, excellence, and leadership have shaped the proud tradition of JL Mann High School athletics.
2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
Jeff Craft | Boys Basketball Coach
Coach Jeff Craft led the Patriots from 1998 to 2016, compiling a remarkable 404-210 career record while winning eight Region Championships and earning Region Coach of the Year honors eight times. Under his leadership, JL Mann reached three Upper State Championship games, captured the 2004 Upper State Championship, and advanced to the 2004 State Championship game. His impact extended across South Carolina through his service as President of the South Carolina High School Basketball Coaches Association and as a coach in numerous statewide all-star games.
Darah Huffman | Girls Basketball Coach
Coach Darah Huffman transformed JL Mann Girls Basketball into one of South Carolina’s premier programs from 2003 to 2013. She compiled an outstanding 228-39 record, won eight Region Championships, and guided the Lady Patriots to three consecutive AAA State Championships (2005-2007). Huffman earned multiple Coach of the Year honors, including the 2007 South Carolina Coach of the Year across all classifications. Her commitment to excellence has continued through her distinguished career as an educational leader in Greenville County Schools.
William Hosea | Boys Soccer Coach
One of the most accomplished soccer coaches in South Carolina history, Coach William Hosea brought championship success to JL Mann from 2000 to 2012. During his tenure, the Patriots won two State Championships, made six state championship appearances, and posted a 209-58 record. Across his legendary coaching career at Riverside and JL Mann, Hosea amassed more than 540 victories, won 11 State Championships, and was inducted into the South Carolina Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012.
Todd Tucker | Coach & Athletic Director
Todd Tucker dedicated more than two decades to JL Mann Athletics as a coach, teacher, assistant athletic director, and athletic director. His leadership helped strengthen Patriot athletics while mentoring countless student-athletes and coaches. His commitment to excellence and service played a significant role in the continued growth and success of JL Mann’s athletic programs. His girls tennis team capture the 2006 state championship and while Athletic Director for Mann 23 teams won state championships.
Damien Leonard | Boys Basketball
A 2011 graduate, Damien Leonard established himself as one of the finest basketball players in JL Mann history. A four-time All-State selection and the No. 1 ranked player in South Carolina’s Class of 2011, Leonard led the Patriots to three consecutive Region Championships before continuing his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina and Georgia Southwestern State University.
Celebrating Patriot Excellence
The JL Mann Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose accomplishments have elevated Patriot athletics through exceptional performance, outstanding leadership, and lasting contributions to the school community. The 2026 class joins a distinguished group of former athletes, coaches, and supporters who have helped build one of South Carolina’s proudest athletic traditions.
JL Mann Athletics congratulates the 2026 Hall of Fame Class and celebrated their remarkable achievements during the induction ceremony on August 21, 2026.
