DOTHAN, Ala. — A scholarship has been established in memory of Taylor Polk, a beloved coach from Ariton, Alabama, who tragically passed away earlier this year. The Taylor Polk Memorial Scholarship, in partnership with the Pinebelt Foundation, aims to support future generations of students at Ariton High School. Starting in 2026, one senior from each graduating class will be selected to receive the scholarship.
The scholarship was created to honor Polk’s dedication to his students and his role as a mentor. Polk, who coached baseball at Ariton, died unexpectedly in February after suffering a heart issue during practice. While working with players at baseball practice, Polk experienced chest pains and feared he was having a heart attack. His condition worsened, and he passed away two days later.
In the wake of his passing, the Ariton community came together to support Polk’s wife, Katie Knox, and their family. Knox expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support, emphasizing the importance of the scholarship in keeping her husband’s memory alive. In a recent social media post, she encouraged the public to contribute to the scholarship fund, regardless of the amount.
“It is our hope that you will consider making a donation to this scholarship, no matter the amount, or simply praying for the success of the scholarship,” Knox wrote. “This community has shown up for us in so many ways since losing Taylor, and this is one way for us to give back.”
The Polk family is now inviting donations from the community to help fund the scholarship. Contributions can be made in various forms, including cash, checks, or stocks. Checks should be made out to the Pinebelt Foundation and sent to 1501 Adeline Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. For those wishing to donate stocks, they can call the Pinebelt Foundation at 601-583-6180. Online donations are also accepted through the Pinebelt Foundation’s website.
The Taylor Polk Memorial Scholarship will serve as a lasting tribute to Polk’s impact on his students and the Ariton community. As the scholarship fund grows, it will continue to support the educational aspirations of young people in the area for years to come.
