January 2019 - HEB Sports Hall of Fame Newsletter

January's Newsletter Topics

• Spotlight: Hulin "Hoot" Smith: The Man - The Legend
• Feature Article: Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence
• Save The Date: The 2019 Sports Hall of Fame Banquet​

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Hulin "Hoot" Smith: The Man - The Legend

​Twenty-five years ago, on May 13, 1995, the first ever HEB Sports Hall of Fame inductee was Hulin "Hoot" Smith. He coached L.D. Bell to their first district championship in 1962. He was founder of the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association and Director of Athletics and Physical Education in HEB ISD for over three decades. During his tenure, two high schools, five middle schools, 18 elementary schools, Pennington Field and the HEB Athletic Complex were all constructed. He brought competitive gymnastics as well as the first Athletic Trainer to Texas Public Schools. The physical education program was a state and national model and the athletic program was respected as one of the best in the state. Hoot is known as a legend for these reasons and so many more. Hoot's philosophy was: Teach the children well so they can reap the benefits of a quality developmental program and participate in a safe, satisfying and successful environment.  When you speak with anyone who worked with him or knew him personally, you come to understand why he was so beloved and respected in the community. It is only fitting to shine the spotlight on this legendary individual, who was the first ever inductee, as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the HEB Sports Hall of Fame. 

Hulin "Hoot" Smith
First Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
​May 13, 1995

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Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence

This year, the HEB Sports Hall of Fame celebrates 25 years of honoring individuals who have made great contributions to athletics as well as recognizing sports teams who have excelled in their particular sport.  The Sports Hall of Fame stimulates continued interest in sports participation and activities within the HEB ISD and cities of Hurst, Euless and Bedford by celebrating outstanding athletic contributions. The foundation also helps by contributing to non-profit youth sports organizations and providing scholarships to selected high school athletes who have contributed to his/her school athletic programs through excellence in his/her sport; outstanding academics and achievements in leadership and citizenship. ​
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​As the HEB Sports Hall of Fame continues its tradition of honoring the past, you may have noticed it is evolving to embrace the future. The Sports Hall of Fame enters its 25th year with a new, updated look and a fresh enthusiasm for tomorrow. The new website continues to improve to bring the best possible experience to the community. However, the digital realm is not the only place you will see evidence of the Sports Hall of Fame taking on a new look. The display of Sports Hall of Fame honorees, which is housed within Pennington Stadium, will also be seeing some improvements in 2019. 

​This is a very exciting time for the Sports Hall of Fame. As we grow and improve, we look to the community more than ever for support to make the future of the foundation something everyone can benefit from and enjoy.

As a non profit, the Sports Hall of Fame relies on donations and sponsors to operate and thrive. Not only are businesses in the community vital to the continued success of the Sports Hall of Fame, but individual contributions make a difference as well. Your generous donations and membership dues, as well ticket sales for the Sports Hall of Fame Banquet and participation in the annual charity golf tournament help keep the dream alive. You are making a positive impact on young athletes in the community and keeping a wonderful 25 year tradition alive and vital. We cannot celebrate 25 years of honoring the past without celebrating YOU today. Thank you for all the ways you have supported the Sports Hall of Fame throughout the years and thank you in advance for your support in the future. 

For more information about the different ways you can partner up with the HEB Sports Hall of Fame as a sponsor, email us at [email protected]

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More about Pennington Stadium and the Sports Hall of Fame in future newsletters

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The 2019 HEB Sports Hall of Fame Banquet

Click on the picture above to view printable invitation and order form

Saturday, February 16, 2019
Doors Open: 5:30 pm
​Silent Auction: 5:30 pm
Dinner: 6:30 pm

Hurst Conference Center
1601 Campus Drive 
Hurst, TX 76054
Click Here for Map 
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​Tickets are on sale now for the 2019 HEB Sports Hall of Fame Banquet. Prices will increase in February, so purchase yours before Feb 1, 2019. 

There are three ways to get your tickets.

(1) You can purchase your advance tickets online by clicking HERE, safe and secure using PayPal or credit card. 

(2) You can fill out the Ticket Order Form by clicking HERE and mail a check. 

(3) Bring your completed Ticket Order Form to Pennington Field and buy them in person at the Ticket Office.
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Click here for map to Pennington Field

Questions? Please email us at [email protected]
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Honoring in 2019

Steve Bayuk
Jill Slapper Dotson
Aaron Jackson
Mike Shabay
Steve Lineweaver

1995 THS Volleyball Team
2009 BHS Boys Basketball Team

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Honor Teams

1995 THS Volleyball Team

2009 BHS Boys Basketball Team

Individual Inductees

Steve Bayuk

Jill Slapper Dotson

Aaron Jackson

Mike Shabay

Steve Lineweaver

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Click HERE to read about each 2019 Individual Inductee

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