Edinburg Honors Legendary Baseball Coach Al Ogletree with Road Dedication
Coach Al Ogletree: A Legacy of Excellence
In a momentous decision, the City of Edinburg has officially renamed Sugar Rd. between University Dr. and Schunior St. to "Coach Al Ogletree Way." This honor pays tribute to Al Ogletree, revered as the winningest coach in the history of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) baseball program. The dedication was announced during a recent City Council meeting, signifying the community’s deep respect for a man whose impact transcended the baseball diamond.
Celebrating a Hall of Famer
Al Ogletree, affectionately known as "Coach Al," stood as a formidable presence in college baseball, shaping countless student-athletes during his remarkable 29-year tenure from 1968 to 1997. Under his leadership, the UTRGV baseball team achieved an impressive record of 1,084 wins, 618 losses, and 1 tie, marking a winning percentage of .637. His coaching prowess guided the team to 13 NCAA Regionals and even a prestigious appearance at the College World Series.
Throughout his career, Coach Al not only achieved personal milestones but also received numerous accolades. His 1971 squad posted an extraordinary record of 44-9, culminating in a fourth-place finish in the College World Series. The accomplishments earned him recognition as the Coach of the Year by The Sporting News, alongside commendations from various respected organizations, including the NCAA District VI and the Texas Sports Writers’ Association.
A Terminal Legacy in Sports
Coach Al’s contribution to baseball extends far beyond victories and accolades. He played a crucial role in developing talent, producing 23 MLB Draft Picks—three of whom reached Major League Baseball. Furthermore, he mentored an astounding 175 future coaches, including prominent figures like Reggie Tredaway, Perry Hill, and Jim Hickey.
UTRGV Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics, Chasse Conque, resonated the community’s sentiments regarding Coach Al’s legacy, stating, "Renaming this stretch of road in his honor ensures that his legacy continues to inspire future generations."
Hall of Fame Inductions
A testament to his prowess and influence in the sport, Coach Al was inducted into the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987 and, in February 2007, he was recognized as an inaugural member of the Athletics Hall of Fame at UTPA. His initiatives and contributions have been acknowledged by several other Halls of Fame across Texas:
- Austin High School Hall of Fame
- Texas A&M Hall of Fame
- American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame
- Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame
- Central Texas Semi-Pro Hall of Fame
- University of Dallas Collegiate Hall of Fame
- Sul Ross State Hall of Fame
- Texas Sports Hall of Fame
These honors reflect the indelible mark he left not only on his players but on the entire sporting community.
A Family Legacy
Beyond his distinguished coaching career, Al Ogletree shared a long and fruitful partnership with his wife, Joann, as they celebrated 62 years of marriage. Together, they have been instrumental in founding the Al and Joann Ogletree Scholarship Endowment, which boasts support from over 130 donors, further emphasizing their commitment to education and the athletic future of student-athletes.
In 2017, UTRGV Athletics unveiled the Coach Al and Joann Ogletree Plaza to honor their enduring legacy and the pride, tradition, and impact that the Ogletree family continues to instill in the department.
Conclusion: A Road Well-Traveled
The renaming of Sugar Rd. to Coach Al Ogletree Way serves as a powerful reminder of the values of dedication, mentorship, and community pride exemplified by Coach Al throughout his illustrious career. As residents and visitors traverse this newly named stretch, they will be reminded of a man whose contributions to baseball and the Rio Grande Valley have shaped the lives of countless individuals.
For more information about UTRGV Athletics, visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms to stay updated on future events and initiatives.
