To stimulate interest in Mineral Wells High School athletics and honor those who have helped establish and preserve the proud legacy of the Rams and Lady Rams.

To recognize deserving individuals who have played a significant role and contributed greatly to the success of athletics at Mineral Wells High School.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame welcomes nominations of deserving individuals and teams whose achievements, leadership, and contributions have helped shape the proud tradition of Mineral Wells athletics.

Nominations may be submitted for former athletes, coaches, administrators, contributors, or teams that have demonstrated excellence and made a lasting impact on Mineral Wells High School athletics.

Please include as much supporting information as possible, including accomplishments, years of participation, awards, records, and any other information that may assist the selection committee in its review.

Mail nominations to:

Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame Committee
P.O. Box 555
Mineral Wells, TX 76068

All nominations are kept on file for future consideration. We encourage alumni, family members, former teammates, coaches, and community members to help us recognize those who have contributed to the legacy of the Rams and Lady Rams.

Thank you for helping preserve and celebrate the rich history of Mineral Wells High School athletics.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community supporters who help preserve and celebrate the proud athletic tradition of the Rams and Lady Rams.

We invite you to join our valued donors in supporting the Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony. Your contribution helps ensure that the accomplishments and legacy of our athletes, coaches, teams, and supporters continue to be recognized for generations to come.

Donations may be mailed to:

Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame Committee
P.O. Box 555
Mineral Wells, TX 76068

Thank you for your generous support and for helping us honor the rich history of Mineral Wells High School athletics. Your investment in this tradition helps keep the Rams and Lady Rams legacy alive.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored four individuals in 2000 whose accomplishments as athletes, coaches, educators, and community leaders left a lasting impact on Mineral Wells High School and the state of Texas.

Individual Inductees

Frank Beavers – Class of 1954
A standout athlete, Frank Beavers helped Mineral Wells High School capture a district championship in 1952. He later became one of the most successful football coaches in UIL history, compiling a career record of 133-44 as head coach at Corpus Christi King, Mineral Wells, and Highland Park. Two of his Highland Park teams advanced to the Class 5A state semifinals. Following his coaching career, Beavers served as a high school administrator and was inducted into the Texas High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Henry Anders – Class of 1988
Widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in Mineral Wells High School history, Henry Anders set more than 20 school rushing and scoring records during his career. He surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in three consecutive seasons and finished with 4,283 career rushing yards. Combining power and speed, the 5-foot-9, 170-pound standout recorded 20 games of more than 100 rushing yards and exceeded 200 yards eight times. Anders also won a district sprint championship in track and field. He continued his football career at TCU and Midwestern State University, where he rushed for more than 1,000 yards as a junior.

Carl Knight – Class of 1955
Standing 6-foot-8, Carl Knight was an imposing presence and an outstanding athlete in both football and basketball. He earned All-District honors in both sports and was heavily recruited before signing with Hardin-Simmons University. There, he earned All-Conference basketball honors in 1958 and 1959. Knight turned down an opportunity to play professionally in the NBA in order to pursue a career in education and coaching. After earning a master's degree from Texas Tech University, he devoted 37 years to Lubbock ISD. Knight passed away in 2000.

J. Harvey "Pigg" Thomas – Class of 1930
A dominant force on both sides of the football, J. Harvey "Pigg" Thomas earned All-State honors as a center in 1929. He helped lead the 1928 Mineral Wells High School football team to a 10-1-2 record and an appearance in the regional finals. Following his high school career, Thomas played football at TCU before returning to Mineral Wells, where he operated a service station for more than 50 years. A dedicated community leader, he served on the Mineral Wells ISD Board of Trustees from 1947 to 1961. Thomas passed away in 1985.

The nickname "Pigg" was given to him in his youth and remained with him throughout his life, becoming one of the most recognizable names in Mineral Wells athletics and community history.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored four outstanding athletes in 2001 whose achievements in football, basketball, and track brought lasting recognition to Mineral Wells High School. Their accomplishments at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels exemplify the tradition of excellence associated with Rams and Lady Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

Bobby Burris – Class of 1957
A state champion pole vaulter, Bobby Burris ranks among the greatest track athletes in Mineral Wells High School history. He qualified for the state track meet all four years of high school and finished among the top three competitors each time, capturing the Class 3A State Championship in the pole vault in 1957. In addition to excelling in the pole vault, he was a standout hurdler, sprinter, AAU springboard diver, and football player. Burris continued his track career at McMurry University, where he won the pole vault competition at the prestigious Border Olympics.

Bob Helterbran – Class of 1965
A two-sport standout, Bob Helterbran earned All-District honors twice in both football and basketball. He played a key role on the 1965 Rams basketball team that advanced to the regional finals and set a school record with 23 rebounds in a single game. Helterbran attended TCU, where he played freshman football and basketball, before transferring to North Texas State University. There, he earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors as a tight end and was later selected by the NFL's Chicago Bears in the 1970 NFL Draft.

Melvin Ray – Class of 1978
One of the most versatile athletes in school history, Melvin Ray became only the second Mineral Wells athlete to earn All-District honors in four sports. In football, he set school records for interceptions in a game, punt return yards, and punt return average, earning recognition as one of the finest punt returners in Rams history. In basketball, he helped lead the Rams to a 32-2 record and a berth in the Class 3A State Finals, earning All-Tournament Team honors. Ray also set a school record in the long jump at 22 feet, 10 inches. He continued his athletic career in football and basketball at Stephen F. Austin State University.

LaTressia Holliman-Wilmer – Class of 1981
LaTressia Holliman-Wilmer led the Lady Rams basketball team to three consecutive regional finals appearances from 1979 to 1981 while earning All-District honors each season. She also qualified for the Class 4A State Track Meet in the 400 meters for three consecutive years. A standout athlete at Baylor University, Holliman-Wilmer was a Southwest Conference All-Academic selection, a two-year starter in basketball, and earned four letters in track and field. She later served as an assistant women's basketball coach at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

The inaugural class of the Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored four individuals whose accomplishments as athletes, coaches, and leaders brought distinction to Mineral Wells High School. Their achievements helped establish the foundation of excellence celebrated by the Hall of Fame today.

Individual Inductees

Gregory Ware – Class of 1941
A two-time All-District football player, Gregory Ware was one of the premier triple-threat athletes of his era. In 1940, he helped lead Mineral Wells to victories over Breckenridge (20-6) and Brownwood (7-6), the only season in school history that the Rams defeated both state powers. Ware also led the Rams to a district track championship in 1941, winning gold medals in the 440-yard dash, mile run, and mile relay. He earned a football scholarship to Baylor University and played in the Fifth Annual Oil Bowl All-Star Game. Ware passed away in 2000.

Charlie Bond – Class of 1955
A speedy and explosive halfback, Charlie Bond helped propel the Rams to a state ranking in 1954 before a season-ending injury cut short his senior campaign. He averaged 8.2 yards per carry and set a school record with a 98-yard touchdown run. Bond also helped lead Mineral Wells to a regional track championship. He continued his football career at Arlington State College (now UTA) and later enjoyed a stint in semi-professional baseball. Bond graduated from North Texas State University in 1959.

Jackie Harvey – Coach (1972–Present)
Recognized for his leadership in building the Mineral Wells High School track and field program and for decades of dedicated community service, Jackie Harvey became the first non-graduate inducted into the Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Under his guidance, the Rams finished third at the state meet in 1993 and were Class 4A State Runner-Up in 1994. A four-sport standout at Refugio High School, Class of 1967, Harvey was an accomplished sprinter who twice won the Lone Star Conference 200-meter championship while competing collegiately at Sul Ross State University.

David Visentine – Class of 1961
A versatile athlete, David Visentine earned All-State honors in baseball and was named All-District in both football and basketball. He continued his basketball career at North Texas State University. Visentine later became one of Texas' most respected high school football coaches, winning 163 games and leading 14 teams to the state playoffs. His coaching career included state runner-up finishes at Lewisville in 1972 and San Antonio Marshall in 1991. In 2001, he was inducted into the Texas High School Coaches Association Hall of Honor.

Honor Team-1994 Track Team

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored two outstanding individuals in 2003 whose achievements brought distinction to Mineral Wells High School in athletics, academics, and rodeo competition.

Individual Inductees

Russ Pate – Class of 1965
A versatile center with exceptional ball-handling skills, Russ Pate served as co-captain of a Rams basketball team that finished 24-3 and advanced to the regional finals. An All-District selection, Pate averaged nearly 17 points per game as a junior and 18 points per game as a senior. He continued his basketball career at McMurry College before graduating from Texas Tech University, which named him an Outstanding Mass Communications Alumnus in 1989. A respected writer and columnist, Pate has co-authored several books with prominent sports figures.

Debbie Johnston-Garrison – Class of 1972
Debbie Johnston Garrison excelled in rodeo competition, earning championships in barrel racing and goat tying while helping lead the Mineral Wells rodeo team to numerous titles. She continued her rodeo career at Tarleton State University, where she also competed in gymnastics. Johnston was crowned Miss Rodeo America in 1979 and was named PWRA Rookie of the Year in 1990. A nationally recognized team roper and ten-time qualifier for the Women's National Finals Rodeo, she is a member of both the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Stephenville Cowboy Walk of Fame and has been recognized among the “Most Notable Women in Texas.

Honor Team, 1964 Ramettes Basketball Team

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored three exceptional athletes in 2004 whose accomplishments left a lasting mark on Rams and Ramettes athletics. Their achievements in football, basketball, and track exemplify the excellence and tradition of Mineral Wells High School.

Individual Inductees

Duane Grissett – Class of 1948
Duane Grissett became the first Mineral Wells quarterback to earn All-State honors. As a junior, he directed one of the most memorable victories in school history, a 7-0 win over Breckenridge that secured a district championship. During his senior season, Grissett passed for 14 touchdowns and rushed for eight more while leading the Mountaineers to a 7-3 record. He accepted a football scholarship to TCU and later served two years in Korea. Following his military service, Grissett enjoyed a distinguished 35-year coaching career in Midland ISD before retiring in 1985.

Jesse Kimbrough – Class of 1980
A gifted multi-sport athlete, Jesse Kimbrough earned All-District honors in football, basketball, and track. In football, he accumulated more than 3,000 yards of total offense. On the basketball court, the high-flying "Doctor of Dunk" helped lead the Rams to state runner-up finishes in 1978 and 1979 and earned All-State Tournament Team recognition. In track and field, Kimbrough won four district sprint championships and set a school record in the 100 meters. He continued his football career at Texas Tech University, where he recorded a 100-yard rushing performance against UTEP. He is the brother of Hall of Fame member Regina Kimbrough.

Regina Kimbrough – Class of 1981
One of the most dominant players in Ramettes basketball history, Regina Kimbrough earned All-State honors three consecutive years and helped lead the Ramettes to a remarkable 77-17 record from 1979 to 1981. During that span, Mineral Wells captured three consecutive district championships and advanced to three regional finals. A force in the paint, Kimbrough averaged 22.2 points and 15 rebounds per game over her three All-District seasons. She also excelled in track and field, winning a district championship in the shot put and qualifying for the regional meet in the discus. She is the sister of Hall of Fame member Jesse Kimbrough.

Honor Team-1952 Mountaineers Football Team

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored two individuals in 2005 whose accomplishments in athletics and athletic service brought distinction to Mineral Wells High School and beyond.

Individual Inductees

Crockett Grimes – Class of 1958
Crockett Grimes was one of the premier track and football athletes of his era. As a junior in 1957, he captured the Class AA State High Jump Championship by clearing 6 feet, ½ inch on a rain-soaked track with limited footing. The year before, he placed third at the state meet after clearing 6 feet, 2 inches. Known for his confidence and competitive spirit, Grimes often cleared opening heights while wearing his letter jacket and sweats. An All-District football selection, he combined exceptional size (6-foot-4, 195 pounds) with speed and power, making him one of the Rams' most formidable athletes.

T.C. “Skip” Cox – Class of 1960
T.C. “Skip” Cox began his lifelong career in sports medicine as a student trainer and manager at Mineral Wells High School. He went on to serve as an athletic trainer at North Texas State University, his alma mater, and later at Baylor University, where he worked alongside legendary coach Grant Teaff. Cox eventually became an assistant athletic director and played a key role in Baylor University's transition into the Big 12 Conference. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to athletic training, he was inducted into the Southwest Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame in 1991.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored three outstanding athletes in 2006 whose achievements brought distinction to Mineral Wells both on and beyond the playing field. Their accomplishments in football, baseball, and track earned recognition at the collegiate and professional levels.

Individual Inductees

Charles Daves – Class of 1961
Charles Daves earned All-District honors in both football and baseball. As a catcher, he helped lead the Rams to four consecutive district baseball championships from 1958 to 1961. His abilities as a linebacker and center earned him a scholarship to West Texas State University, where he served as co-captain, was named team MVP, and received an invitation to the prestigious East-West Shrine Game. After a professional opportunity with the Toronto CFL team was cut short by injury, Daves went on to serve as a career Army officer and Airborne Ranger.

Glynn Lindsey – Class of 1962
A versatile athlete, Glynn Lindsey was an All-District quarterback and an All-State shortstop for the Rams. He turned down a professional baseball contract with the San Francisco Giants to attend Texas A&M University, where he became the Aggies' leading scorer in both 1965 and 1966. Lindsey also excelled on the baseball diamond, compiling a .325 career batting average at Texas A&M. Following his playing career, he dedicated his life to education as a football coach, principal, and assistant superintendent in Marlin, Texas.

Curt Knight – Class of 1962
A transfer student who earned three letters at Mineral Wells High School, Curt Knight won the District 4-AAA long jump championship before embarking on a remarkable football career. As a record-setting kicker at the Coast Guard Academy and later with the Washington Redskins, Knight led the NFC in scoring in 1971 with 114 points and earned selection to the NFC Pro Bowl Team. He played in Super Bowl VII against the undefeated Miami Dolphins and set an NFL playoff record in 1973 with a 52-yard field goal against Minnesota. Knight also achieved the rare feat of kicking five field goals in a game on three separate occasions during his NFL career.

Honor Team, 1966 Rams Football Team

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored three exceptional athletes in 2007. Their accomplishments in football, baseball, track, and golf helped establish a tradition of excellence that continues to inspire Rams athletes today.

Individual Inductees

Wayne Anders – Class of 1969
A gifted four-sport athlete, Wayne Anders earned All-District honors in football, baseball, and track. In 1968, he set two school records by accumulating 389 all-purpose yards against Weatherford and scoring 34 points, including five touchdowns, against Bowie. Known as an electrifying kick returner and big-play threat, Anders was one of the most dynamic athletes of his era. Following his athletic career, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a federal employee and resides in Stockton, California.

Sean Fisher – Class of 1986
A strong-armed left-handed quarterback, Sean Fisher guided the 1985 Rams to an undefeated season and the District 3-4A championship. Fisher established school records for career total offense, passing yards, pass completions, and touchdown passes. He continued his football career at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, where he earned NJCAA Second Team All-American honors, before finishing his collegiate career at Louisiana Tech University.

Ronny Glanton – Class of 1978
One of the finest golfers in Mineral Wells High School history, Ronny Glanton earned All-District honors three times, All-Regional recognition twice, and was District Medalist in 1978. He continued his golf career at Weatherford College and Hardin-Simmons University, winning multiple collegiate tournaments. Turning professional in 1980, Glanton qualified for the PGA Tour's Byron Nelson Classic seven times and was named Northern Texas PGA Golf Professional of the Year in 1999.

Honor Team- 1967 Ramettes Basketball Team

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored four outstanding individual athletes and one historic team in 2008. These inductees were recognized for their exceptional athletic achievements and their contributions to the proud tradition of Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

Frank McQueary – Class of 1942
A star runner and receiver known as "Curly," Frank McQueary was named All-State in 1941 and voted the top back in District 9-AA. He also led the state in punting with a 44-yard average, earning a spot in the 1942 Texas High School Coaches Association All-Star Game. McQueary qualified twice for the state track meet in the pole vault and mile relay and later earned a football scholarship to Baylor University after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Jackie Ingle – Class of 1960
One of the most versatile athletes in Mineral Wells history, Jackie Ingle threw a school-record 22 touchdown passes in 1959 while leading the Rams to an 8-2 record. A three-time All-District selection in football, he was also a standout baseball player, earning four letters and helping lead the Rams to three district championships. Ingle batted over .550 as a sophomore and over .400 for his career. He continued his baseball success at Southwestern State University.

Doug Sanford – Class of 1962
Doug Sanford excelled in baseball, golf, and basketball. A two-time All-District selection in baseball and golf, Sanford batted nearly .500 and hit 11 home runs while helping the Rams capture consecutive district championships. He lettered four years in golf, twice leading Mineral Wells to the regional tournament, and averaged 17 points per game in basketball as a senior. Sanford continued his athletic career at Weatherford Junior College and later at Tarleton State University.

Anthony Walker – Class of 1968
A unanimous All-District quarterback in 1967, Anthony Walker led the Rams to an 8-2 record. His legendary performance against Stephenville included 329 rushing yards, five touchdowns, and a two-point conversion. Walker also anchored the district champion mile relay team and later played defensive back at Mississippi State University. Following college, he signed a free-agent contract with the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers.

Honor Team

1958 Rams Baseball Team
The 1958 Rams Baseball Team, coached by Pat Simmons, compiled a 16-6 record and captured Mineral Wells' third consecutive District 4-AAA championship. The Rams advanced to the regional finals before falling in a hard-fought three-game series.

Team Members

• Tommy Benge
• Charles Daves
• Marlin Daugherty
• Bill Eubanks
• Billy Funk
• David Grable
• James Hammett
• Jack Ingle
• Bill Jean
• Tom Key
• Ronnie Martin
• Charles Pratt
• Charles Reeves
• Tommy Smith
• Mike Teichmann
• David Visentine
• Bill Watson
• Bob Watson
• Roy Wilson
• Clyde Woods
• Stanley Zinn
• Coach Pat Simmons

In Memoriam

• Tommy Benge
• Billy Funk
• Mike Teichmann
• Clyde Woods

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored four outstanding individual athletes and one exceptional team in 2009. These inductees represent excellence across multiple sports and helped establish a tradition of success for the Rams.

Individual Inductees

Johnnie Jackson – Class of 1974
A three-sport standout known for his blazing speed, Johnnie Jackson averaged double figures in basketball and set school records in the long jump (22'9") and 200 meters (21.7 seconds). His memorable football career included four touchdowns in a thrilling 56-46 victory over Weatherford, scoring on a kickoff return, punt return, and two touchdown receptions. Jackson later became an All-American wide receiver at Ranger Junior College and earned All-Lone Star Conference honors at Angelo State University, where he played on an NAIA National Championship team alongside fellow MWHS legend Alvin Garrett.

Ricky Ashley – Class of 1976
A dominant 6-foot-10 post player, Ricky Ashley averaged more than 20 points and 10 rebounds per game during both his junior and senior seasons. He became the first Ram basketball player to score more than 1,000 career points and recorded a career-high 38 points in a single game. A two-time All-District selection and district scoring leader, Ashley earned Third Team All-State honors in 1976. He signed with TCU before continuing his collegiate career at Howard Payne University. Ashley also set a Mineral Wells High School high jump record at 6 feet, 4 inches.

Trey Hooper – Class of 1986
A physical force as both a fullback and defensive lineman, Trey Hooper helped lead the Rams to a school-record 11-win season in 1985. His performance earned All-District and All-Area honors. In track and field, Hooper set a school record in the shot put, finished third at the state meet, and advanced to regionals in the discus. He signed with the University of Houston, where he was twice named the Cougars' Defensive MVP.

Adell Duckett – Class of 2000
A three-sport athlete with exceptional power and athleticism, Adell Duckett excelled in football, basketball, and track. He earned All-District honors in basketball while averaging 22 points per game and was an All-State performer in football and track. Duckett captured the 2000 Class 4A State Championship in the shot put after setting a school-record throw of 61 feet, 11¾ inches. At Texas Tech University, he set a single-season school record for sacks and tackles for loss and earned All-Big 12 recognition as a defensive end. He later attended training camp with the NFL's San Diego Chargers before a career-ending injury.

Honor Team

1970 Boys Golf Team
The 1970 Rams Golf Team enjoyed one of the finest seasons in school history, capturing district and regional championships while winning seven tournaments under Coach Bill Keeney. The season culminated with a fourth-place finish at the Class AAA State Tournament in Austin. After the opening round at Morris Williams Golf Course, the Rams trailed eventual state champion Monahans by only two strokes.

Team Members

• Bill Schober (District Medalist and Region 2 Co-Medalist)
• Chris Cogswell (Region 2 Co-Medalist)
• John Nash
• Larry Brandenburg
• Jesse Stevens
• Chuck Ashley
• Tommy Biles
• Scott Hoey
• Walker Keeney
• Donald Petty
• Jimmy Walker

Coach

• Bill Keeney

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame proudly recognized four outstanding individuals and one honor team in 2010. These inductees exemplify the excellence, dedication, and tradition that have helped shape the legacy of Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

Matt Russell – Class of 1978, Baseball

 A dynamic scorer and rebounder, Russell earned All-Disrict, All-Region and All-State honors in 1978, helping propel Warren Pruitt’s Runnin’ Rams to a 32-3 record and a AAA state runner-up finish. He also starred in track, setting a school record in the high jump. Russell played basketball at Howard Payne and Tarleton State, from which he is a Distinguished Military Graduate. Colonel Russell earned the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal and numerous other awards and commendations during a highly decorated career with the United States Army that included a 15-month tour in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Casey Schultz – Class of 1992, Track & Cross Country

One of the top middle distance runners and mile relay anchormen in Ram history, Schultz won a AAAA state championship in 1992 in his specialty, 800 meters. Schultz’s winning time was 1:54. He earned a total of nine varsity letters at MWHS and was MVP of both the track and cross country teams. Schultz accepted a scholarship offer from Texas Christian University, where he competed in track and cross country for the Horned Frogs and was a medalist at the Southwest Conference championship.

Tony Anguiano – Class of 1969, Special Contributor, Basketball

A ball-hawking 5’10” guard, Anguiano combined quickness and agility with uncanny anticipation. A virtual one-man press, he filled up stat sheets with steals. He also possessed remarkable leaping ability, which earned the All-District selection and 1969 team MVP the nickname “The Flying Ram”. He was selected by the Mineral Wells Index to the All-Decade Team of the 1960s. Anguiano enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating from MWHS and was nearing the end of a tour of duty in Vietnam when he was killed in combat at the age of 20 on July 24, 1971.

Gary Sherley – Class of 1973, Football & Track

The rock-solid (6-1, 200) Sherley was the first Ram running back to top 1,000 rushing yards in consecutive seasons. He gained 1,034 yards as a junior in 1971 and 1,321 yards as a senior in 1972. An All-District selection in baseball, Sherley also made his mark in track-and-field, setting a MWHS record in the discus (172’9”) at regionals and finishing third at the AAAA state meet. His discus record remains on the books four decades later. Sherley played college football at Baylor University and graduated from Texas A&M University. He died in 2005 after a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Sammye Smith-Class of 1964 

A prolific scorer with great court savvy, Smith was a three-time All-District selection who as a senior averaged 26 points a game. Her career high was 42. Smith was co-captain of the ’64 Ramettes squad that made MWHS history by reaching the state tournament, where she was All-Tournament honorable mention. She also was a standout softball player in Mineral Wells rec leagues. Smith later coached basketball and volleyball at the high school and college levels in San Antonio, her longtime residence.

2010 Honor Team

1979 Boys Basketball Team

The Runnin’ Rams, under first-year head coach Phil King, for the second consecutive season reached the 30-win plateau and faced Huntsville in the AAA title game. The Rams lost a 48-45 nailbiter and finished with a 31-3 record. Darrell Milton earned All-State honors and Milton, Jesse Kimbrough and Rory Nowak were named to the All-Tournament team in Austin. The ’79 roster also included Michael Birt, Doug Brady, Tommy Fincher, David Moore, Ron Morain, Gabriel Nickerson, Bill Strong, Roland Schultz and Keith Theimer. Wayne Schatzle was assistant coach, Mark Bailey and Jack Norman were managers and Susan Verner and Teresa Norman were statisticians. In the state semifinals, the Runnin’ Rams beat Bay City, coached by MWHS Athletic Hall of Fame member Edward “Cat” Nelson.

First year head coach Phil King’s Runnin’ Rams, for the second consecutive season, reached the 30 win plateau catapulting them to the AAA title game.  In the state semifinals, the Rams beat Bay City and finished their season with a 31-3 record.  The Rams also earned All-Tournament team recognition in Austin.

2011 Inductees

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame proudly honored six individual inductees and one honor team in 2011. These honorees represent the talent, dedication, and lasting impact that continue to build the proud tradition of Rams and Lady Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

Shawn Nolen – Class of 1998, Football Special Contributor

Nolen embodied the essence of competitive spirit: desire, determination, sacrifice and the willingness to give one’s all. As a junior on coach Phil Blue’s 1996 Ram squad, he saw duty on defense as a linebacker. Near the end of the homecoming game at Miller Stadium versus Fort Worth Poly, Nolen blocked an extra point attempt but suffered a compound fracture of his left leg. Complications later arose and he lost his life at the age of 17 on October 8, 1996. An avid Dallas Cowboys fan, Nolen was buried in a #22 replica jersey of one of his favorite players, Emmitt Smith. The Nolen family received letters of condolence from several Dallas players, including Smith, Troy Aikman and Deion Sanders.

Sammye Smith – Class of 1964, Basketball

A prolific scorer with great court savvy, Smith was a three-time All-District selection who as a senior averaged 26 points a game. Her career high was 42. Smith was co-captain of the ’64 Ramettes squad that made MWHS history by reaching the state tournament, where she was All-Tournament honorable mention. She also was a standout softball player in Mineral Wells rec leagues. Smith later coached basketball and volleyball at the high school and college levels in San Antonio, her longtime residence.

Leittia Knight – Class of 1996, Track

An outstanding sprinter, Knight was a standout for coach Sean Harvey’s 1995 district championship team, which featured a record-setting 4X100 relay. Knight really hit her stride at Angelo State University, where she was a five-time NCAA Division II All-American selection. She was named the Lone Star Conference’s Female Athlete of the Year in 2002, when she qualified for five events at the national finals. She holds a B.S. degree in Medical Technology and is finishing an M.S. degree in Information Systems.

Doug Brady – Class of 1980, Football & Track

A three-sport star, Brady earned All-District honors in football, basketball and track. He rushed for nearly 1,100 yards as a senior, was a sparkplug sixth man on the AAA state runner-up basketball team and set a school record in the 300-meter hurdles as a regional qualifier. Brady played football at North Texas and Cameron (Okla.) University before entering law enforcement. He has compiled a distinguished record with the Dallas Police Department that includes the Medal of Valor and Police Shield awards plus recognition as 1996 Officer of the Year.

Amber Mahan – Class of 2002, Powerlifting, Volleyball & Cheerleading

Mahan earned a national title in powerlifting and was named outstanding lifter at the 2002 Natural Athlete Strength Association (N.A.S.A.) finals in Oklahoma City. She led the Lady Rams to a third-place finish at the AAAA state meet that year, winning a state championship for the second consecutive year. She also was twice All-District in volleyball. An honor student, cheerleading co-captain and MWHS coronation queen, Mahan holds B.S. degrees from Texas Tech in Human Development and Family Studies (2005) and Nursing (2007). She works in surgical services and in 2010 traveled to Haiti on a medical mission trip three days after the devastating earthquake.

D.J. Archer – Class of 1999, Bowling

Archer earned two varsity letters in baseball and three in tennis, but gained his fame at Mountaineer Lanes, where he became the best bowler in Mineral Wells history. He was a standout at West Texas A&M, where he bowled on a national championship team and was MVP at the national finals. Archer joined the Professional Bowlers Association in 2000 and since has been a fixture on the PBA Tour. His career highlights include a fourth-place finish at the 2004 USBC Masters and an astounding 55 (to date) 300 games.

Honor Team

2002 Lady Rams Powerlifting Team

Coach Mike Dills and his Lady Rams reached the pinnacle of scholastic powerlifting in 2002, winning the Natural Athlete Strength Association (N.A.S.A.) national championship at Oklahoma City. The Lady Rams won four consecutive meets before finishing second at regionals and third at the AAAA state meet. Top point producers were weight-class state champions Amber Mahan and CiCi Walker and state runner-up Camille Moore. The roster also included Jennifer Box, Zaylee Griffin, Jaclyn McAdory, Maria Menchaca, Lori Patterson, Rachel Seay, Courtney Temple and Lindsey Wallace. John Briggs was assistant coach.

2015 Inductees

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame recognized an outstanding group of inductees in 2015. These honorees represent the talent, dedication, and lasting contributions that continue to strengthen the proud legacy of Rams and Lady Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

• Bill Kinder
• Ron Morain
• Steve Dean
• Frankie Washington
• Clint Reynolds
• Rodney Henderson
• Tavis Harvey
• Fredia Nickerson-Sneed
• Sandy Wooten – Class of 2006, two-time state champion and holder of all sprint records
• Heather Teichmann
• Francene Powell-Poole
• Kelvin Thompson
• Emmanuel Hicks

Bill Kinder Class of 1977 – Football

A first-team All-District guard, Bill Kinder was a cornerstone of the Mineral Wells Rams football team during the mid-1970s. His leadership and performance on the field earned him recognition as both team captain and season MVP.

Kinder continued his football career at Texas Christian University (TCU), where he earned All-Southwest Conference honors and was named to the Freshman All-America Team.

Following college, Kinder built an impressive career in broadcasting, spending more than four decades as a radio personality. He spent approximately 20 years with KSCS 96.3 FM in the Dallas-Fort Worth market before continuing his broadcasting career with Kinder Outdoors.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored three individuals and three outstanding teams in 2017. These inductees represent excellence, leadership, and achievement while helping build the proud tradition of Rams and Lady Rams athletics.

Individual Inductees

Chad Boone

Rory Nowak-Class of 1979

Rory Nowak was part of the best run in school history period. During his two-year stint as a starting center on the running Rams basketball team, Nowak, led the Rams to a 63-6 record. The 6-foot-6-inch center completed a career double-double, averaging over 16 points per game and 12.3 boards. He was named to the numerous all-tournament teams, period. He led the Rams to back-to-back state runner-up finishes, period. His biggest honor was being selected to the all-state tournament team in 1979.

Jerry Hamilton Class of 1969

Jerry Hamilton founded the Mineral Wells High School Hall of Fame in 1999. As co-chairman, Hamilton helped raise $250,000 to build the Mineral Wells High School track and tennis facility. He led the Rams to the regional finals in golf two consecutive years and was district runner-up as a senior, shooting 75-75 in 1969. He wrote the sports column, Ram Tracking, for the local newspaper for 40 years and was named Texas High School Basketball Sports Writer of the Year in 1979 while sports editor at the Mineral Wells Index. Hamilton founded the Ram Golf Classic that supported Ram golf and tennis. He compiled Mineral Wells High School football records from 1912 to present, started the banners that hang in the gym, and has attended over 1,000 Mineral Wells High School athletic events. Hamilton also started “Breakfast with the Coach”, which is in its 32nd year, and the Chicken Express All-Star Basketball Game that is in its 29th year.

Honor Teams

• 1967 Ram Football Team

• 1993-94 Ramettes Basketball Team
  Led by Head Coach Gary Young and Assistant Coach Allison Nowak, team members included Jana Ables, Tonya Anders, Jamie Breisch, Julie Brown, Misti Brown, Shiana Crow, Rachel Holamon, Natalie Holyfield, Jessica Johnson, Linda Loftin, Radiah Phillips, and Leah Richards.

• 2004 Lady Rams Softball Team
  Led by Head Coach David Tarver and Assistant Coach Jeannette Barron, team members included Brittany Andress, Nicole Baker, Myra Barierro-England, Shanae Beck, Amanda Daniel, Amber Driggers, Rachelle Gonzales, Jessica Jenkins, Natalie Jones, Rebecca McDaniel, Becky Mitcham, Ashley Olson, Dolores Retana, Lisa Sneath, and Krystle Wien.

The Mineral Wells High School Athletic Hall of Fame honored the 2001 Rams Baseball Team during its Spring 2018 induction ceremony. This outstanding team earned its place in Rams history through exceptional performance, teamwork, and dedication on the diamond.

Honor Team

2001 Rams Baseball Team
Led by Head Coach David Crawford and Assistant Coaches Derrick Conley and David Rodriguez, team members included Kelsey Cates, Kevin Crump, Chris Hatley, David Gonzales, Michael Benavides, Rickey Brown, Cody Guzman, Andrew Tam, AJ Vogl, Weston Radford, Matt McDaniel, and Armando Benavides. Their accomplishments helped establish the team as one of the memorable chapters in Mineral Wells baseball history.

It took 38 years, but the 2001 Rams baseball team got the job done. The Rams won their last district championship in baseball in 1963. The long drought was halted in 2001 as the Rams captured the 5-4A district baseball championship. It was not easy as the Rams had to face district powers Wichita Falls High and Wichita Falls Rider. Wichita Falls High is known throughout the state for their baseball program and has state titles to back it up. The Rams went 8-2 in district play and earned the outright title. The Rams advanced to the second round of the playoffs where they lost two heartbreakers to Burleson. The Elks took the opener in extra innings and won the second game 5-4.

• Adrian Colbert
• Stanley Carter
• Sean Harvey
• Leon Teddlie
• Max Trickey