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Joe Brenel Norwood
Football Player, South Panola High Batesville, MS 1970 - 1974
Born in Batesville, MS December 1955, Joe Brenel Norwood was a trailblazer on and off the football field. He started attending South Panola in 1969 as a seventh grader, just a year before the school became integrated. Despite the challenges of being one of the only black students at the school, Joe didn't let that stop him from pursuing his passion for football.
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In 1970, Joe joined the South Panola football team as the only black player, playing fullback. He continued to play fullback in ninth grade before switching to defensive corner in the tenth grade. By his junior and senior years, had become a strong safety, demonstrating his versatility on the field.
In his senior year, Joe was recognized for his hard work and talent by winning the all-conference award. His remarkable performance on the field earned him a scholarship to Northwest Community College. Through his dedication to football and his unwavering determination, Joe has become a trailblazer, paving the way for future generations of football players. His legacy continues to inspire those around him, and his achievements will always be remembered as a testament to his hard work and perseverance.
Willie Conner is a homegrown product of Batesville, MS. He attended South Panola High School 1975 - 1978 and is a member of the Class of 1978. During his tenure with the Tiger football program, he was the starting quarterback of the 1977 Undefeated Championship Team which had a record of 10-0. This 1977 Team was the first undefeated team in the Delta Valley Conference after 1970: the 2nd Undefeated Unit in SPHS History. and the 1st back-to-back Chickasaw Conference Championship Team.
After high school, he attended Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL and obtained a Bachelor of General Studies (Telecommunications). He later attended Webster University in Fort Sam, Houston, TX and received an MBA in Computer Resources & Information Management. He has two adult children. His son, Omar Henderson, was a part of the SPHS '93 5A State Championship Team. Willie is currently retired and doing as little as possible!
