Country artist KC Johns performing at the 7th Annual Bad Boy Mowers Scots Spectacular. (All photography by John Sykes Jr. via Lyon College)
By Max Wilf, Lyon College
The 7th Annual Bad Boy Mowers Scots Spectacular at Lyon College on April 18 was a success, as more than 300 attendees celebrated Lyon College Athletics and raised nearly $82,000 for student-athletes and athletic programs.
The event theme was an encore of “Denim and Diamonds,” and attendees displayed an eclectic mix of blue jeans and cocktail attire with western flair. Guests enjoyed an array of food stations with themed, chef-curated menus provided by Batesville-area restaurants, and the online auction inspired spirited bidding on items ranging from NBA tickets to see Austin Reaves to fine art to vacation stays in Hot Springs, Atlanta and South Carolina.
The evening festivities were made possible by the generous support of Lyon College alumni and community friends, including title sponsor Bad Boy Mowers; presenting sponsors Bank of Cave City and First Community Bank; entertainment and 360-degree photo booth sponsor Tooth Be Told; bar sponsors Smith Plumbing, Southern Bank and Hampton Inn; and dining sponsors Cowboy’s BBQ, White River Health and Dr. Jeremiah Cherwien. Participating restaurants were Cowboy’s BBQ, Colton’s Steak House, Nature’s Market, Polk & Paddle, Grazing Grace and Fresh Ideas.
The evening featured live performances by Nashville country-rock artist KC Johns and local favorite Drasco.
Local band, Drasco, performing at the Bad Boy Mowers Scots Spectacular.
In remarks to guests, Dr. Melissa Taverner, Lyon College president, addressed the importance of athletic programs in the college experience and noted that a majority of Lyon students compete in Division III athletics. She emphasized the demanding load that student-athletes carry with the rigorous Lyon academic curriculum and how well-prepared they are for future success.
Following a celebratory recap video of the year in athletics, Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins introduced special guests, including two past Champion Award winners, Fred Wann and Ron Brogdon, and recognized current coaches and athletic staff. Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Cindy Barber thanked the sponsors and participating restaurants and enlisted the help of Amanda Roberts to assist with a special recognition.
In a surprise presentation, Jenkins was recognized for his 40 years at Lyon College. Roberts gave an overview of his career at Lyon, and photos from his tenure were displayed on screens. Jenkins, who graduated in 1986, was a member of the men’s basketball team under Coach Terry Garner, then served as assistant coach and head coach before assuming his current position as director of athletics. As Jenkins returned to the stage, the crowd rose for a standing ovation. Barber presented several gifts to Jenkins and invited former Scots who played for or with Jenkins to come to the stage for a group photo.
Kevin Jenkins, athletic director at Lyon College, was honored at the Bad Boy Mowers Scots Spectacular.
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear the support for Lyon College Athletics and Lyon students is strong.
Officials have announced the date for the 2027 Bad Boy Mowers Scots Spectacular: April 17, 2027. Contact event chairs Cindy Barber at cindy.barber@lyon.edu or Kevin Jenkins at kevin.jenkins@lyon.edu to be a part of next year’s event.
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