The Dorman High School Athletic Department recognized Joe before last Friday’s game versus Byrnes in recognition of his 50thyear as Dorman’s football PA announcer. Joe’s family and friends were on hand to celebrate the momentous occasion and Joe joined the team captains and referees at midfield before the game to “flip the coin” for the opening of the clash between the two great Spartanburg county rivals.
Joe Sessoms was born in Spartanburg County and attended District Six schools. He graduated from Dorman High School in 1966, which was Dorman’s second graduating class. After spending several years in various college military programs, Joe landed a job at WASC radio in Spartanburg in January of 1968. Since that year, Joe has had many various duties at WASC including on-air personality, program director, sales director, part owner and his current position of vice president and general manager.
During the summer of 1968, Joe was approached by then Dorman High Assistant Principal Ralph Cannon, about doing the public address announcing for Dorman football. Mr. Cannon recognized Joe’s passion for Dorman and for football and Joe gladly accepted the position. Little did Joe know at the time, that he would be the voice of the Cavaliers for the next 50 years and see the Dorman football program rise to a level of excellence that is recognized at both the state and national levels.
Joe Sessoms has always taken his PA job seriously. He prepares for each game as though it were being broadcast on the air for radio or television. Joe sees his position as a serious and honorable responsibility to keep fans informed about the action on the field, announcements about stadium amenities, scores from other games and the introduction of support groups such as the band and Blue Belles.
Joe will be the first to tell you that he can’t do it all by himself. He has been blessed to have a group of men that have helped him as spotters along the way. Bobby Jackson, Paul McColly, John David Abercrombie, John Huckaby and Harry Gable have all assisted Joe with pertinent information about ball carriers and tacklers. Joe says it is always a fun experience to work with a group of dedicated men on Friday nights to call the games to the Cavalier fans.
The Dorman High School Athletic Department is appreciative to Joe Sessoms for his service and dedication to the student-athletes, coaches, and fans of the Dorman Cavaliers for 50 years. After all, it wouldn’t be a Cavalier Friday Night without Joe’s unforgettable voice as it rises above the crowd!