Charles C.Y. Peters to release new books honoring local sports legends
Published 2:30 pm Tuesday, October 29, 2024
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Contributed Photo/The back cover of Jarfly Dugger: King of the Diamond.
Contributed Photo/The cover of Blast from the Past.
Charles C.Y. Peters, a name familiar to those who cherish the stories of East Tennessee’s sports heritage, is set to release two much-anticipated books around Thanksgiving. His 11th book, Jarfly Dugger: King of the Diamond, is a deep dive into the extraordinary life and career of Richard “Jarfly” Dugger, one of the most revered fast-pitch softball pitchers of his era. Dugger’s journey began humbly in Carter County, where, at just 14, he started playing under Clyde Bullock’s guidance. Dugger’s natural gift for pitching blossomed, especially after he honed his skills while serving in the military. Over a remarkable 30-year career, Dugger rose to legendary status, winning nearly 1,000 games and earning recognition across multiple states as the “best pitcher” to ever play the game.
The book chronicles not only Dugger’s victories but also his journey from local talent to world-traveling star. In addition to recounting pivotal games and thrilling tournaments, Peters offers readers a glimpse into Dugger’s personal life, revealing how the pitcher balanced fame with a desire to help the next generation. Today, Dugger is still active in the community, often offering his wisdom and expertise to young pitchers. His advice to aspiring players is not just about technique but also the values of dedication and resilience. Dugger’s impact on fast-pitch softball is celebrated with multiple Hall of Fame inductions, and Jarfly Dugger: King of the Diamond captures the full spectrum of his inspiring career.
Peters’s 12th book, Blast from the Past, brings readers nearly 500 pages of stories honoring more than 150 local sports legends, primarily from Carter County. Through short biographies, personal anecdotes, and rare photos, Peters revives the memories of athletes and coaches who left indelible marks on their communities. While the focus remains on Carter County, Peters has also included tales of a few notable athletes from Johnson County, adding diversity to the collection. Each story provides insight into the dedication and talent that East Tennessee athletes have brought to their respective sports, whether it was baseball, basketball, or football. For fans of local sports history, Blast from the Past is a treasure trove that paints a vivid picture of the golden eras of regional athletics.
The timing of these releases couldn’t be more fitting, as Thanksgiving serves as a season of family gatherings and nostalgia. Peters hopes that the books will foster connections across generations, inspiring younger readers while rekindling cherished memories for those who witnessed these legends firsthand. Both Jarfly Dugger: King of the Diamond and Blast from the Past will be available for purchase at several local spots, including Eagles Center, the Village Antiques, Nancy’s Restaurant, and Smokey Mountain Treasures. Readers can also pre-order copies via email at [email protected] to secure a piece of local sports history.
With the release of his 11th and 12th books, Peters continues to celebrate the stories that make East Tennessee unique, preserving the achievements of local legends for future generations.
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