CALHOUN, Ga. — The Calhoun City Schools Board of Education has officially dedicated the Diane Ralston-Smith Lady Jackets Softball Field, honoring one of the most accomplished coaches in Georgia history and a true Calhoun legend.
Diane Ralston-Smith built a legacy that transformed high school softball in Georgia. Over the course of her career, she became the winningest coach in state history, setting a standard of excellence that continues to influence players and coaches across the region. Her leadership shaped not only championship-caliber teams but also the lives of countless young women who carried her lessons into college, careers, and community life.
The field dedication ensures her name will remain a permanent part of Calhoun athletics, serving as a daily reminder to current and future Lady Jackets athletes of the tradition they represent. For decades, Smith’s teams were known for their determination, discipline, and sportsmanship, values that remain central to the program today.
The recognition of Coach Smith’s impact will continue with a community celebration next month. On Friday, October 17, Calhoun City Schools will host a pre-game recognition and reception ahead of the Calhoun High School vs. Gilmer football game. Former players, alumni, and community members are invited to gather in her honor, reflecting on a career that left an indelible mark on both the sport and the city of Calhoun.
From her first days on the field to her record-setting victories, Diane Ralston-Smith has embodied what it means to lead, to inspire, and to build a lasting tradition. With the dedication of the Lady Jackets Softball Field, her name and legacy will stand as part of Calhoun’s story for generations to come.
