Brett Marshall Book Signing

Finney County Historical Society

The Finney County Historical Museum will host a book signing from 2 to 5 p.m. Aug. 25 for retired Garden City Telegram Sports Editor Brett Marshall, who has just produced an extensive volume on a half-century of Kansas high school football playoffs.

Marshall’s book, “Under the Lights: 50 Years of KSHSAA Football Playoffs,” was published in cooperation with the Kansas State High School Activities Association.  The author and compiler will make a brief presentation and be on hand to sign copies of the 238-page book.  Copies will be on sale for $25 each, cash or check, including sales tax.

Marshall began research on the book in early 2018, gathering stories, photographs and statistics on Kansas high school playoffs at every level, employing his experience in covering numerous football games and other events from 2008 to 2018, when he retired from Garden City’s daily newspaper.  The book includes 19 chapters, with information dating back to 1969.

In addition, “Under the Lights” includes an extensive collection of records and statistics for every level from 1A through 6A football, as well eight-man competition.  There are more than 50 color and black and white photographs as well.

Before his 10-year tenure as Telegram sports editor, Marshall was engaged approximately seven years in book publishing.  The Syracuse native also worked from 1984 to 2000 as executive director of the Kansas and Michigan Amateur Golf Associations.  Between 1974 and 1984, he served on newspaper staffs in Fort Scott, Dodge City, Hutchinson and Salina.

The author earned an associate degree at Seward County Community College in Liberal, where he played on the golf team, and a journalism degree at the University of Kansas, Lawrence.

Marshall’s book is dedicated to the student-athletes of Kansas high schools and includes an opening message by Bill Faflick, KSHSAA executive director.  Copies are going to each high school in the state and may also be purchased online through the association.

The museum is located and 403 S. Fourth Street in Garden City’s Finnup Park, and those planning to attend the Aug. 25 book signing should use the north entrance.  Should the stock of books on hand sell out, Marshall will be able to take orders.