Class Of 2024
![]() Connie Grumling is a former Rebelette, Teacher, Athletics - Activities Director. The only South High graduate to return as Principal of South High School.
Connie Fischer-Grumling is a 1977 graduate of South High School. During her time as a student, she was involved in ASB as secretary and she was a leader in the Rebelettes. In 1984, She returned to her Alma Mater as the Rebelette Instructor and soccer coach along with substitute teaching at South. Connie was hired as a full-time teacher at South High School in 1989 where she taught PE, dance and Rebelettes. She later was hired as the Activities Director, and eventually became the Dean of Athletics and Activities. Connie pursued her administrative career with several jobs throughout the district including opening the new Independence High School.
Connie returned to her beloved South High School as Principal in 2012 where she remained until she retired in 2022. Connie has been instrumental in many achievements while at South High School, including the formation of the South High Hall of Fame, the South High Stadium improvement project, and the newly renovated IT Quad and new band room among many others. Connie is extremely proud of her two children, Lindsey and Ryan, both have careers in the Kern High School District. Currently, Connie is enjoying retirement life with her husband Duane, South High class of ‘76. They enjoy golfing, traveling and delighting in their five grandchildren. |
![]() Terence Hubbert is a proud graduate and alumni of the South High School “Rebels” Class of 1975. Terence attended, Casa Loma Elementary, Golden State Jr High, and of course South High School. He wouldn’t change a thing.
He competed in Football, Basketball and Track. He started three years on the Varsity Basketball team. Terence was All League and All Area in 1974 and 1975 and a two year starter on the Varsity football team. He was All League and All Area in 1974. He participated three years on the Varsity Track and Field team and a member of the 1974 League Championship team. Terence won the Harry Coffee Award in 1975 and received Most Outstanding Senior Athlete. Terence attended Bakersfield College in 1975 and in 1976 competed in football and basketball. He was a two year starter in football, All League Metro player in 1976. Terence was part of BC’s #1 ranked State and Potato Bowl champions, plus number one Junior College in the nation. Winning the 1976 Jr. Rose Bowl Championship game in Pasadena, Terence received a scholarship to play football at Utah State University. He returned to Bakersfield and started coaching seventh and eighth graders in the Jack Frost Football League throughout 1980-1986, losing only two games during that period. Many of the coaches went on to coach at South. A majority of the players went on to be future Rebel greats during that time. In 1989, Terence began coaching basketball and football at South. Coaching basketball at all three levels. Football at the FS and JV level. Moving to Varsity football in 1994-95. The 1995 football team played for the Valley Championship. In the year 2000, Terence coached JV boys basketball at BHS. That team went undefeated with 34 wins. In 2000, Terence started Gladiators Basketball Club which eventually became Gladiators Youth Basketball Organization. In 2006 his Gladiators Boys 15 U Club team won the 15U National Championship in Las Vegas. Also, in 2006 he was Head Basketball coach at Valley High School. In 2007, Terence became the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Stockdale High School. In 2011 he became Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach at Liberty. In 2019, he became Head JV boys basketball coach at Centennial High School where he’s currently Co-Head Varsity boys basketball coach. This years team played for a Division 2 State title. Terence is proud to have attended and graduated from South High School. Having an opportunity to give back as a coach and mentor means a lot to him, Having an impact in student athletes lives is so rewarding. Especially those from South. |
![]() Clayton (Tecon) Madden Jr. is a Police Captain with 27 years of experience in the Bakersfield Police Dept. He’s worked in almost every capacity of the police department. These assignments consisted of patrol, training, officer, narcotic detective, canine officer, gang investigator, motorcycle officer and homicide detective. He graduated from South High after being a standout two sport athlete. He went on to study and play basketball at Canada Community College and the University of Santa Barbara. He has always been driven to make a positive impact on the community.
His passion for the youth community began during his time at South High School and continued through his college years, when he served as a mentor for young kids. This passion transitioned into his law enforcement career, where he has spent over 25 years as mentor for the Police Activities League. In 2015, he took the initiative to re-establish the Bakersfield Department Junior Police Academy. A program aimed at developing leadership skills in kids ages 10-17. Since its inception, over 1,400 kids have successfully graduated from the program. As an alumnus of South High School, he has remained committed to serving the students in the Kern High School District. For over ten years he has served as a mentor for the South High Criminal Justice Program, guiding and inspiring students interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. 1n 2023, be introduced the Youth Division Program, also known as Youth Court, which allows students form the KHSD to serve as jurors, mock trials attorneys, and court bailiffs. This program provides young individuals with an opportunity to learn from their mistakes without involving the juvenile justice system. It focuses on restorative practices, emphasizing accountability and compassion, while providing practical experience with the judicial process. Outside of his law enforcement career, he has also made significant contributions to the sports community. He served as the head varsity coach for Centennial High School girls basketball team and currently for the Liberty High School boys basketball team. Additionally, he has spent two years as a football position coach at South High and Liberty High School. In 2016 the South High School family felt a terribly loss when basketball Coach Brian Carter was killed in a traffic accident. With the SHS alums, Principal Connie Grumling and Chief Lyle Martin’s blessing, Clayton came out of retirement and took the position of coach. He was determined to address the players, social, emotional, academic, and athletic needs. He mentored, nurtured, and coached the team during a very turbulent time on the entire campus and those young men thank him for it today. The team became league champions and advanced to the sectional semi-championship game. Clayton (Tecon) Madden Jr’s dedication to the community, South High School and particularly the youth, is evident in his extensive involvement and commitment to mentoring, leadership development, and restorative justice initiatives. Clayton (Tecon) Madden Jr SHS HOF Nominee
Football and Basketball 1991. Four years Varsity Basketball. School scoring record of over 2000 career points. Numerous City and County Honors. Two years of Varsity Football. All City and County in ‘89 and ‘90. Canada Community College: All State Basketball , 2018 Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee. UCSB Basketball Scholarship and two time team captain. |
![]() Mark McGill South High graduating class of 1985.
Mark McGill made an unforgettable impact at South High School from 1981 to 1985, showcasing his talents across football, basketball, and track. As a three-year starter in football, he earned All-League and All-CIF honors, shining as both quarterback and defensive back. His standout performance led to being named Quarterback of the Year and selection to the prestigious Best of the West All-Star Team and All State Teams. In baseball, Mark’s four years on varsity tenure resulted in All-League recognition and spots on the All-Star Teams and All-CIF 1st Team. Likewise, three years on varsity basketball earned him All-League honors awards and a place on the All-CIF 1st Team. Track was another sport arena where Mark excelled. Competing in the mile relay team at the state meet as a freshman and consistently competing when available on several track events while also playing Varsity Baseball. He ran on both the sprint and mile relays and also qualified for regionals in the 400 meters consistently. His academic excellence earned him a full scholarship to UCLA where he continued his football career. While at UCLA he continued to achieve success. Named to honors in his senior year and participated in several bowl games: the Rose Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Aloha Bowl, and Freedom Bowl. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in History with a focus on Business Administration. Mark’s transition to the financial services industry post-college has been successful, showcasing his versatility and dedication beyond athletics. His legacy as a well-rounded athlete, scholar, and professional continues to inspire others. |
![]() Virgil Miller graduated from South High School in 1973. He lived on Panama Elementary School campus in a small house with his family, as his dad was the head custodian of the school. Virgil’s family moved across the street from South High where Virgil attended high school. He played baseball and competed in artistic roller skating. He and his partner, Natalie Dunn Fries, won National titles in artistic pairs skating and skate exhibitions for the Pan-American Olympic Committee in Puerto Rico.
Virgil went to Bakersfield College for two years and competed on the B.C. pistol team. Virgil became a Kern County Sheriff in 1979. He was injured on duty and later retired with an honorable medical retirement. Virgil refocused his energy on his video production business. He has donated his time creating videos for the South High Hall of Fame for the past ten years. He enjoys woodworking and fly fishing. |
![]() John Moncier South High Class of 1967.
1967- South High School Baseball Harry Coffee Award C0-MVP.
1969- Bakersfield College; earned baseball scholarship to Fresno State.
1970-1971- Fresno State
1971- Signed with the Minnesota Twins
Has nine years of experience as a professional baseball player and coach.
Ten years of coaching high school baseball at South, Garces and Frontier.
Seven League Championships, coaching all three levels.
Nine years of coaching at Bakersfield College.
1995 team still holds wins record at Bakersfield College(33).
Twenty-two players drafted by professional baseball including
three major league players. Thirty-three years teaching in the Kern High School District.
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![]() Rich Richardson was born in Seneca, SC. In a family of eight children and a single mother, he was the first child to attend college and graduate with a master’s degree. To let you know how small his town was, his high school class was the largest of the high school history, A MEGA 74 STRONG! Everyone knew everyone. Education was highly valued with role models living in the same segregated community as neighbors: students, teachers, janitors, principals, pharmacist, lawyer, mill workers and parents. That old adage, “I know your mother” applied in Seneca.
One day, Rich was in class daydreaming and contemplating his future. A plane flew by and he made a decision to join the US Air Force and go to college. Once leaving Edwards Air Force Base, Rich started his college journey by moving to Bakersfield and attending Bakersfield College (1971). The three years at Bakersfield College presented an exciting opportunity to serve in student government leadership roles as the ASB Student business manager, Vietnam veteran groups, and as a delegate to the Democratic Convention in Miami, Fl (1972). Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business (1980) and Master of Arts in Educational Counseling (1982), fulfilled his dream of getting a college education. As a retired school educator with 55 years dedicated to students, parents and staff, Rich had experience working with students and staff from elementary (Bakersfield City School District), Kern High School District (South High School), and Bakersfield College (veterans). The South High School community has always been dear to his heart as a campus supervisor, community counselor, academic counselor, student advisor and sports video photographer. Some of his fondest memories are traveling up and down the state assisting with various sports activities, educational conferences with students, home visits and working with staff (classified and certificated). A recipient of various community awards and honors from California Teachers Association: The Who Award, and Community Recognition, CSUB MESA Advisor, NEA Bully Intervention Program, and President of Statewide Black Student of California. As one of the original advisors (1990s) to the Kern High School Project BEST and continuing to serve, he is extremely proud of his work promoting African American young men. Most people would describe Rich as an adventurer. Hobbies include traveling to all fifty states and thirteen countries. His most recent trip in July to Fiji added to his bucket list of places and cultures to explore. Visiting a former CSUB roommate in November now living in India is next on the bucket list. Most people know that Raiders are his passion of choice as a 50-year die-hard fan. Go Raiders! Cherishing a partnership of 21 years with South High School, Rich is grateful for the memories and friendships. |
![]() Lovetta (Reid) Sebbern, a native of Bakersfield, was nurtured by her parents, Merial Sr. (Jack) and the late Ulice Reid. She attended Friendship House Community Center Preschool, Casa Loma Elementary, and Curran Jr. High School.
High School: At South High School (SHS), Lovetta excelled in sports and leadership. She was team MVP in basketball and track, led the SHS girls’ basketball team to their first tournament victory, and earned All-SYL, All-Area, and Jockey Club honors. She was also the Rebellette leader, Senior Class Vice-President, President of the Black Student United for Progress Club, and a graduation speaker. Her dedication and leadership earned her the principal’s award.
College: Lovetta continued at Bakersfield College, earning MVP and all-conference recognitions in basketball, and served as President of the Black Student Union. She also received Jockey Club honors. She graduated in 1988. Despite opportunities to play basketball at the university level, she chose to focus on her career while continuing her education. She earned a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice (1996) and a Master’s in Public Administration (2002) from California State University Bakersfield. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration at Liberty University, hoping to finish in the fall, with her dissertation titled “Women in Leadership: A Case Study in Kern County.”
Career: Lovetta began her career with the California Department of Corrections in 1990, rising to Associate Warden before retiring in 2018. She mentor’s new supervisors in law enforcement, substitute as a teacher for the Kern High School District, and coaches Junior Varsity Girls Basketball at Independence High School. She plans to start a leadership development business after completing her PhD.
Community Service: Lovetta has organized fundraisers for various causes and co-founded the non-profit Christ is Right Helping Hands with her husband, Wil. The organization provides food and hygiene items to those in need. She is a community resource partner with No Sister Left Behind, an organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of black women in Bakersfield through education and support programs. During the pandemic, she organized events like Trek2Give, Trek2Love, and Trek2Vote in collaboration with GirlTrek Bakersfield. These events, now going into their fifth year, have become annual traditions that continue to support the community today.
Personal Life: Lovetta is devoted to her supportive husband, Wil, and their children, Kyle, Kelsey, and Kourtney. She instills in them the values of hard work, dedication, and community service, the principles that have guided her throughout her life.
As she is inducted into the SHS Hall of Fame, Lovetta expresses gratitude to her mentors and hopes her story inspires others to strive for excellence. “No matter the obstacles or challenges that stand before me, they only serve to fuel my self-efficacy and strengthen my resolve. Thank you, South High!” |
![]() Alan Shorr South High Class of 1971.
Alan is a Tony winning Broadway producer of such shows as Come From Away, A Night With Janis Joplin, and To Kill a Mockingbird. Alan has been involved in Broadway theatre for many years, producing shows and winning multiple Tony and Olivier awards. Currently involved, along with Mike Davis, in trying to bring about scholarships for performing arts students at South High and recently did a motivational presentation at the school for Performing arts students. Mr. Alan Shorr has been a successful and well-respected member of the theater community for most of his life. At South High School, he was a part of the theater department and a rehearsal pianist for local theater groups. After graduating in 1971, he continued his love of stage at Bakersfield College, North of the River Children’s Theater, and Starlight of Kern. Alan went to CSU Bakersfield and Cal State Northridge before completing an MBA. His business career was successful and lucrative but Alan missed the beauty and creativity of the theater. In the ‘90s, Alan began working with the Los Angeles Music Center and fell back into the performing arts. He and his wife Marcia are the proud parents of five children and Alan works between New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and London. His current productions include: Leopoldstadt on Broadway in New York City, the 2023 Tony winner -BEST NEW PLAY and 2022 Olivier winner- BEST NEW PLAY Come From Away, the 2019 Olivier winner - BEST NEW MUSICAL Currently on US and Australia Tours The Lehman Trilogy 2022 winner – BEST NEW PLAY Currently on US Tour The Band’s Visit 2018 10 time Tony winner including BEST NEW MUSICAL Currently on US Tour Ain’t Too Proud On US Tour and at the Prince Edward Theatre in London’s West End Cabaret 2022, a 7-time Olivier winner including BEST REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL Currently at the Playhouse Theatre in London And the Magic Mike Live In London and on US Tour |
![]() Constance Ward, a track and field star, left a lasting impact at South High School and the community from 1976-1979. She was also a Rebelette, but her heart was in track and field. As a freshman she earned a spot on the girls’ varsity track and field team where she dominated the track.
From 1976-1979, Constance was a standout on the varsity team where she sprinted her way to victory in the 100 yard dash, 220 yard dash and anchored the 4x110 yard relay. She competed at the SYL Area Meets, Kern Relays, West Coast Relays and the Valley Meets. In 1976, as a freshman, Constance and her sister Charlotte Bell, a senior, ran together on the 440 yard relay and helped make history for South High School girls track and field. Their team was the first girls track and field team from South High to ever compete in the prestigious CIF State Track and Field Championship in Berkeley, California. They were proud and honored to bring home the bronze 3rd place medals. Constance also competed in the 100 yard dash and the 220 yard dash during that CIF meet. She helped put South High School girls track and field on the map with hopes of encouraging other girls to do the same. That is why she followed her dream and consecutively qualified and competed in the CIF State Championship meet for all four years, by also taking a relay team with her in 1978 and 1979. Constance received her South High School varsity letter all four years, and she was voted MVP and Most Outstanding. Her passion for breaking barriers and setting records in track and field earned her a spot in the book entitled “American Names and Faces 1977” in recognition for outstanding achievement, and also a position on the Los Angeles Mercurtettes world class traveling team. After graduating from South High School, Constance went on to win Nationals in her freshman year at Cal State University Bakersfield where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physical Education, Minor in Special Education. In closing, Constance humbly says, “For the past ten years I have been running a different race, and I am blessed to say that I am a 10-year breast cancer survivor. Although it is by far the hardest race that I ever ran, I plane to come out victorious.” She graciously thanks South High School for inducting her into the Hall of Fame Class of 2024. |
![]() Lady Rebels
1992-1993 South Yosemite League Champions 1992-1993 Central Section C.I.F Valley Champions Front Row: Jessica Dickey, Demetra George, RaeLynn Pieper, Kristin Majda, Karla Young. Top Row: Roger Sanchez-Asst. Coach, Staci Wright, Debbie Finn, Christie Hollowell, Krystal Shendo, Helene Andersen, Rob Sausedo-Coach The years 1985-1996 were the “golden age” of girl’s basketball at South High School. During these years, the varsity teams accumulated an overall win-loss record of 183-71. This calculated to a winning percentage of 72%. Over this time period, the Lady Rebels (Spartans) finished no lower than second place in the South Yosemite League in eight of the eleven years which included three league championships, one Valley Championship and a runner-up Valley Championship finish. This represented a record of achievement in girls basketball that was unmatched in the years prior to 1985 and not equaled in the years after 1996. The centerpiece of this era of success was the 1992-1993 team which compiled an overall win-loss record of 22-4, captured the South Yosemite League Championship and won the Division II Valley Championship by defeating defending section champion and top ranked Sanger, 52-50. The Lady Rebels (Spartans) earned a hard-fought win as Staci Wright converted a driving layup in the final seconds to put South on top for good against the favored Apaches.
The team’s mantra of “Playing defense, playing hard and playing together” was exhibited in the play of the group and were key factors behind the team’s success. The stingy Lady Rebel (Spartan) defense only allowed an average of 35 points per game and permitted only two opposing teams to score 50 points or more during the season. Offensively, the Lady Rebels (Spartans) averaged 52 points per game while taking advantage of a deep bench which could count on contributions from a variety of players.
The Lady Rebels (Spartans) were led by All South Yosemite League and All Area players Christie Hollowell and Staci Wright. Hollowell would also be named league MVP and All Area Player of the Year. Three year varsity letter-winners Debbie Finn and Rae Lynn Pieper provided experience and steady play. Helene Andersen, Jessica Dickey, Demetra George and Krystal Shendo were effective both as starters and reserves coming off the bench. Kristan Majda and Karla Young were hard-working and inspiring players who exemplified the winning qualities of the team. Additionally, assistant coach Roger Sanchez and team manager David Eynaud provided invaluable insight, coaching and support to the 1992-1993 team which has now achieved the honor of entering the South High School Hall of Fame.
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