Scott City to honor former football coach Wilthong on Saturday

A night to celebrate the naming of Scott City High School's football field after former coach William Wilthong will be held Saturday at the Scott City Knights of Columbus.

The event, which begins at 5 p.m., will include a fish fry and banquet.

Current Scott City football coach Jim May, who played for Wilthong, said he expects a big crowd that will include many of Wilthong's former players.

"I expect people from every decade he coached to be there," May said. "It should be a great night. Everybody is welcome. We'll sell tickets at the door."

The Scott City School District approved in January naming the field after Wilthong, who led the Scott City High School football program from 1968 to 1995. He also coached baseball and served as athletic director for the final 15 years of his tenure.

Wilthong's career record of 193-71, a .731 winning percentage, ranks among the best for Missouri high school coaches.

He led the Rams to 13 conference titles and four district championships in 27 seasons.

"He was just a great coach who everybody admired. He put Scott City football on the map," May said.

May said there also will be an official field naming ceremony some time during the upcoming football season.

"We'll also do something then, but we wanted to do this now," May said.