Mark graduated from Sheffield High School in1975 where he was a three sport letter-man. In football he was a defensive end and long snapper; in baseball he played shortstop and he played point guard in basketball. After graduating from high school Mark walked on at the University of North Alabama and earned a full scholarship in baseball. He lettered four years for the Lions playing a utility roll as a freshman and then becoming the right fielder the remaining three years. His accomplishments in high school include playing on the 1975 Bulldogs 3A State baseball championship  team and the 1974 State 3A football runner-up. As a college baseball player Mark led UNA in hitting during his junior season, batting .399 and was selected to the All-Gulf South Conference Team. He was also selected to the GSC All Academic Team as well.