Shepherd University Athletics

Excelled in football as a two-way end, letteringall four years as the first African-American football player at SC.  Taylor started his first collegiate game in 1955 as a freshman and was a member of Shepherd's only undefeated football team, that season as Shepherd compiled an 8-0 record.  He earned WVIAC honors in 1958.  He also played one year (1957-58) of varsity basketball for the Rams.  A teacher/coach in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia since 1959, James has directed the Jefferson High School track & field program to numerous championships and has been honored for his outstanding dedication to the sport countless times.  He also has been active in many civic and charitable organizations, serving on various committees.