For Montgomery, Red Devil Roots Run Deep

Shaun D. Montgomery, often referred to as “Cowbell Daddy” on social media, has been working diligently preparing the Lawrence County High School Football Stadium for play in a few short weeks. The fans who attend the first home football game, on August 23, a jamboree game against Hatton High, will be comfortably seated on freshly cleaned seats on the LCHS Home side. Montgomery, a long-time resident of Moulton, Alabama, and a parent to Xander Montgomery, a varsity football player, has spent the last few weeks pressure washing years of grime and dirt from the Home side concrete bleachers. Montgomery, along with a few others, has also cleaned up the overgrown weeds and trash that has been a long-time eye sore behind the same bleachers.

Montgomery is no stranger in volunteering his time to LCHS. When he isn’t pressure washing bleachers, one can find him at H.A. Alexander Park in the varsity baseball press box. There, he runs the scoreboard, and announces during home baseball games. He also streams live Red Devil sports events and commentates to his personal Facebook page, promoting Devil teams’ successes. He gives his time all in the name of Red Devil spirit and love for his community.

There are numerous adults in the community who live a life similar to Montgomery. Those who are busy with work and children, and not having enough time to volunteer. So why does Montgomery make such an effort to give his time to our school? In an interview with Montgomery, he made clear that it isn’t about him at all wanting to be recognized. Rather, he wants the school recognized, especially for all the great things it is.

Montgomery says the great families here and his love for the simple life is what makes it all worthwhile. He says that even though it may not be for some, being a part of such a tight-knit community is what he has always wanted — referring to his past life of… “big city living.”

When asked about the reason he volunteers so much of his time to the school, his answer is simple… “it’s the kids.” Montgomery says that he takes pride in that he can invest in students’ lives and that they can trust him enough to be there when they need him. He says it is important that the students at LCHS know that he is, and always will be, a supporter — even those who do not play sports. He understands sports are not for all students, but that does not mean they do not need support as well.

We asked Montgomery if he can give any piece of advice to each student at LCHS, what would it be? His answer: “When you wake up in the morning, know it’s going to be a great day. No matter what the day holds, know that there is a purpose for the day, and you should work hard to reach your goals.” Montgomery believes his words. He lives by these words daily, especially with his Cowbell Daddy identity. What began in 2015 as a humorous costume, has now blossomed a new birth of LCHS community support. Believing his purpose is supporting his community by using his gifts of comedy, Montgomery works to have a purpose as Cowbell Daddy. He hopes students see his alter-identity as a symbol of love and support, and also as inspiration to find a purpose in their lives. Montgomery says that he wholeheartedly believes we all have a gift, even high school students, and we must find that gift. When the gift and purpose co-exist, a goal is reached.

Today, we thank Shaun Montgomery, or Cowbell Daddy, for his continuing dedication to Lawrence County High School. Without the diligence, hard work, and comedic relief, the Red Devil Family would not be the same. From us at LCHS, we ask that the community thanks Mr. Montgomery when they see him at football games, restaurants, or even the Wal-mart, for his selflessness and great heart. We are proud to have him as a member of the Red Devil community.

Work is still not fully complete on the football field. This week, more parents and volunteers will be helping get the Red Devil Stadium ready for play on Friday. Contact Montgomery, Jake Cole, or Rich and Kesha Dutton if you would like to help in the effort.