By Jamie Harris, The Morgan Messenger
PAW PAW, W.Va. — What began as a season still reeling from the heartache of the sudden loss of beloved teacher and long-time athletic director Jeff Palmer in September suddenly turned into a celebration of resilience, pride, and pure athletic brilliance this past weekend at Laidley Field. From the heart of Charleston, one incredible family helped lift the entire Paw Paw community to new heights.
Junior Shayla Tanouye made history on Friday, capturing the very first state title in track and field for Paw Paw High School with a standout performance in the long jump. On Saturday morning, she wasn’t done adding a second gold medal in the 300-meter hurdles and finishing runner-up in the 100-meter hurdles. Her dis- play of grit, power, and grace throughout the weekend etched her name into Paw Paw athletics lore.
But the Tanouye story wasn’t finished.
