J. M. Culberson

A life-long resident of Shannon community, J.M. and his wife, Edna, are still active in the community. J.M. is presently in the Rome-Floyd County Sports Hall of Fame. Graduated from Model High School and later attended Darlington School (Prep School at that time).

• Football
  • Known as best kicker in Darlington's history and an excellent passer. Set a passing record in 1941 that still stood in 2000.
  • One of the leading scorers in the Georgia Intercollegiate Athletic Association and was named to All Mid-South Football Team. He acquired the name "Long Run" Culberson.
  • Accepted scholarship to the University of North Carolina.
  • Named to All-Southern Conference Freshman Football Team. 

• Basketball
  • Named to the All-Star Tourney Team by the Chatanooga Times and listed among the tournament's leading scorers.

• Baseball
  • Named to the All-South Baseball Team while at Darlington.
  • Leading hitter for the Brighton Mills' Orphans (Textile League).
  • Played every position except catcher on the Brighton team. Newspaper quoted as saying he was without a doubt the best all-around player to ever don a Brighton uniform.
  • Opportunity to try out with the Atlanta Baseball Club, but opted to go the Univwersity of North Carolina on a football scholarship.
  • In 1946 The Red Sox organization (brother Leon played on the team) wanted him to work out with the team. Played the entire pre-season for the Red Sox.
  • Most consider baseball to be his best sport and what he is most remembered by.

• Served in the Army for 3 ^1/2  years.