THREE FORKS — One of the loudest and best high school fan bases in the state can be found right in Three Forks. The often-packed gym at the high school has proven to be a nearly impossible environment for opponents to win in.
“It’s hard to win here for opponents because we have such a good fan base,” said Lady Wolves guard Shainy Mack. “And it starts with Jamie.”
Jamie Richardson is well-known around town for being Three Forks Athletics’ biggest fan.
“I love coming to these games and love watching the Wolves,” she said.
She can be found on the baseline in the same corner of the gym at every home game, showing a dedication that is more than appreciated by Three Forks coaches and players alike.
“(Even) when the weather’s bad, (she’s) here,” said Lady Wolves head coach Mike Sauvageau. “It’s more than just getting out of your house and going to the gym for her — it takes a big effort for her to get here.”
Jamie was born with cerebral palsy, a disorder confining the 38-year-old to a wheelchair. But her situation has not held her back from attending the majority of the town’s athletic events for decades.
“We all know Jamie,” Mack said. “She’s definitely our biggest fan and has the biggest heart.”
When she can, Jamie even hits the road to stay busy.
“I come to a lot of home games (and) some away games if I can,” she said. “It gives me something to do. I’m not stuck at home.”
This season has been more enjoyable than most for both Jamie and the Wolves, as both the boys and girls basketball teams are having their best seasons in recent memory.
“This one’s a good year and I love it,” she said.
It’s hard not to love a boys team that is 18-4 and a girls team that is a perfect 21-0 as they await divisional play to begin on March 1. The Wolves have seen just one state basketball title in the past 38 years, but this could be the year.
“Going out with a state championship would mean everything to us — not just the seniors, but the whole team,” Mack said.
As the Wolves continue their push to Class B championships, they will lean on their fans for support.
And it starts with Jamie.
