Jan Azar

Opening day ceremonies for the GHSA Mizuno State Softball Championships in Columbus. All 64 teams represented on the diamond in the stadium. We also took the time to recognize Ernie Yarbrough our dear colleague and friend who passed away earlier this month. Ernie was a former coach of the game and a huge advocate for softball. 🙏🏾🥎🏆

GHSA Mourns the Passing of Ernie Yarbrough The Georgia High School Association is mourning the passing of longtime GHSA leader Ernie Yarbrough, who died Saturday, October 17. Yarbrough began working with the GHSA in 1992 as a rules interpreter and served the association in several roles, including Coordinator of Officiating and Assistant Executive Director. He retired from day-to-day duties with the GHSA in 2024 but remained on staff part-time, continuing to share his experience and support the association. As the GHSA associate director of girls flag football, Yarbrough helped guide the sport’s growth and success. He helped secure grants and expand participation across the state, creating more opportunities for student-athletes. Yarbrough’s experience, dedication, and care for others made a lasting difference in Georgia high school sports. Those who knew him will remember his familiar sign-off: “Be safe out there”—a simple expression of the thoughtfulness and concern he showed others. The GHSA community will deeply miss Ernie and the knowledge, commitment, and kindness he shared with its schools, student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues. Service Arrangements Funeral Service Saturday, November 14, 2026 Noon–1 p.m. Rising Hills Church 3693 Hickory Flat Highway Canton, GA 30115 Celebration of Life Cherokee Veterans Park 7345 Cumming Highway Canton, GA 30115 Following the service