Coaches Gary O'Neal and Mike Modisett Named Grand Marshals of Hometown USA Parade

Both made significant contributions to the Madison community through their dedication to youth sports and mentorship

Madison, Indiana (June 27, 2024) – Madison’s Mayor Bob Courtney is proud to announce that two of Madison’s most esteemed coaches, Gary O'Neal and Mike Modisett, will serve as the Grand Marshals for this year's Hometown USA Parade. The parade will take place on Main Street on July 5 at 6 PM, celebrating the spirit and pride of our community.

Coach Gary O'Neal and Assistant Coach Mike Modisett have both made significant contributions to the Madison community through their dedication to youth sports and mentorship. Their commitment to fostering athletic talent and instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance has left a lasting impact on countless young athletes.

Coach Gary O'Neal, a lifelong resident of Madison, has been a pillar in the community for years. Notably, he led the Madison Cubs baseball team to its first IHSAA baseball state title in 1999 with a remarkable 10-0 victory. Over his memorable career, he achieved an impressive milestone of 601 wins. His teams won 19 sectional titles and five regional titles. In 1998 and 1999, he had the No. 1-ranked team in the state, which included future Major League draftees Bryan Bullington, Chris Bass, and Chad Liter. Inducted into the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame in 1996, O'Neal retired after the 2000 season, returning for one final campaign in 2002. His leadership and passion for coaching have inspired many to achieve their personal best, both on and off the field.

Assistant Coach Mike Modisett, equally dedicated to the youth of Madison, spent 1987-2002 coaching and nurturing young talent and promoting the importance of sportsmanship and integrity. His unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in the development of our community's athletic programs.

"We are thrilled to have Coaches Gary O'Neal and Mike Modisett as our Grand Marshals this year," said Mayor Courtney. "Their dedication to our youth and the positive impact they have had on our community make them the perfect representatives of the spirit of Hometown USA."

The Hometown USA Parade is an annual event that brings together residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day weekend and vibrant community spirit of Madison. This year's parade promises to be a memorable occasion, with a lineup of exciting floats, performances, and, of course, the presence of our esteemed Grand Marshals.

This event is proudly brought to you by SuperATV. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them, our supporting sponsors, North Madison Christian Church and Centra Credit Union, and our community sponsors, Kasselmann McDonald's, Clifty Engineering and Tool, and Madison Hong Kong Kitchen.