Craig Franklin always championed others to be hall of famers. Now it’s his turn.

Dylan Dunaway - PRCC Sports Information

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — Every high school athlete chases the four-year dream, but a decision to stay local and attend Pearl River ended up being one of the best that Craig Franklin ever made.

A JUCO All-Star, All-State selection and member of PRCC's 1971-72 football teams, Franklin will be enshrined in the Pearl River Community College Athletics Hall of Fame presented by Keith's Superstores on July 28. Joining Franklin in the 2023 class are baseball's Jim Murphy and Dr. Thomas Royals and women's basketball's Norma Noel. The 2023 recipient of the Spirit of a Wildcat Award is Francis Herrin.

"It's surreal. It's truly an honor to even be considered for the Hall of Fame, much less selected," Franklin said. "I played because I loved the game and wanted to be the best player and teammate I could be. I am tremendously excited and thrilled to be in that company."

BECOMING A WILDCAT Franklin was a star in nearly every sport in high school, but he knew he was most passionate a