On a Saturday night in March of 1986, Doug McDuffey walked into Shelbyville High School as a member of the Golden Bears’ Final Four basketball team with his IHSAA state finalist basketball medallion in hand.
Thursday, almost 37 years to the day later, McDuffey (photo, left) was at SHS again, this time to become the second recipient of “The Hardworking Golden Bear Award,” an honor recently created to acknowledge Shelbyville High School alumni who positively promote Shelbyville Central Schools and consistently work for the betterment of the community.
Shelbyville Central Schools Superintendent Dr. Matt Vance made the presentation in the SHS Golden Bear Room citing McDuffey’s “genuine dedication and commitment.”
“Doug is an excellent example of a successful and generous Shelbyville alumnus who works hard every day to have a positive influence,” said Andy Hensley (photo, right), Shelbyville Central Schools Director of Student Services. “He is a fine representative of this award.”
McDuffey has contributed his efforts to numerous local endeavors including the Boys and Girls Club, The Knights of Columbus and Blue Bear Golf Club. He also has dedicated time to working with youth basketball and football programs.
McDuffey, who grew up on Shelbyville’s southwest side, recalls a childhood filled with activity and fun.
“I had tremendous friends who all helped each other,” stated McDuffey. “We were fortunate to have a strong group that wanted to achieve as we got older. I think we all shared the goals of working hard to do well.”
McDuffey, a 1986 SHS graduate, also played on the 10-1 South Central Conference football championship team in 1984. He worked for O’Neal Steel for 29 years and is currently employed by Bellman Trucking in Indianapolis. He has been a professional driver for 35 years and holds CDL and Hazardous Materials Licenses. He currently serves as the assistant Golden Bears boys golf coach.
Doug and Deborah, his wife of 22 years, are the parents of DaMiah, n SHS senior, and DeMiles, a junior, as well as newly-adopted children Kristopher, Kameron and Kamyah.
“I had very good parents and there were always special people around to guide me, to keep me doing the right thing,” said McDuffey. “Great mentors. I always appreciated that. They gave me a sense of value and that is very important. I feel that I should give back and be helpful to others whenever I can.”
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