Former Fort Smith Athletics Director Jim Rowland, known for hiring successful coaches for Northside and Southside high schools, passed away at the age of 83. Rowland served as the AD for Fort Smith Public Schools from 1991 until 2016, leaving behind a legacy of championship-winning coaches.
Among the coaches hired by Rowland were Rickey Smith, Eric Burnett, Jeff Williams, and Mauricio Maciel, who all brought state titles to their respective teams. Rowland was praised for his ability to make tough decisions and handle situations with class, even when having to say no to coaches.
Originally from Little Rock, Rowland played football at Little Rock Central before attending the University of Central Arkansas and serving the Fort Smith school district for 53 years. He resigned in 2016, citing fallout from a mascot change at Southside, but remained involved in the district’s athletic events.
Rowland’s impact on the coaches he hired was evident, with Burnett attributing his coaching career to Rowland’s belief in him. Williams also expressed his gratitude for the guidance and support provided by Rowland during his coaching career.
The legacy of Jim Rowland lives on in the athletes and coaches he influenced during his tenure as AD in Fort Smith. The city will honor his memory with an annual half-marathon named in his honor, recognizing his contributions to high school sports in the community.
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