Basketball was always a big part of Joe Ellis' life, even before birth. He learned the game early and became a force on the basketball court. No matter what disciplinary obstacles or health obstacles Joe faced, he just couldn't give up. He kept going back. Basketball was in his blood and he lived to play and coach. Now, as head coach of his hometown varsity boys basketball team, the Surry County High School "Running Cougars," and with cancer overtaking his body and draining his energy, he still has the will, the determination, and the inner most desire to not give up. Even having to retire from his teaching profession, he refuses to leave his team. Joe trusts God and recognizes that what he is enduring is for a special purpose. So he keeps the faith, stays focused and God grants him the desire of his heart.....a state championship!

Basketball was always a big part of Joe Ellis' life, even before birth. He learned the game early and became a force on the basketball court. No matter what disciplinary obstacles or health obstacles Joe faced, he just couldn't give up. He kept going back. Basketball was in his blood and he lived to play and coach. Now, as head coach of his hometown varsity boys basketball team, the Surry County High School "Running Cougars," and with cancer overtaking his body and draining his energy, he still has the will, the determination, and the inner most desire to not give up. Even having to retire from his teaching profession, he refuses to leave his team. Joe trusts God and recognizes that what he is enduring is for a special purpose. So he keeps the faith, stays focused and God grants him the desire of his heart.....a state championship!