Coach Al Ogletree Way: Honoring a Baseball Legend in Edinburg
Introduction
On November 3rd at 10 a.m., Edinburg will pay tribute to a remarkable figure in collegiate baseball history by officially dedicating a street in his honor. "Coach Al Ogletree Way" will be unveiled at the intersection of Sugar Rd. and Schunior St., near the baseball stadium parking lot.
Coach Al Ogletree: A Baseball Legacy
Affectionately known as "Coach Al," Austin Ogletree is celebrated as the winningest coach in the history of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) baseball program. Over a phenomenal 29-year tenure as head coach from 1968 to 1997, he compiled an impressive record of 1,084 wins, 618 losses, and 1 tie (a .637 winning percentage). Under his guidance, the UTRGV baseball team made significant strides, qualifying for 13 NCAA Regionals and achieving a coveted appearance in the College World Series.
A Record-Breaking Career
Coach Ogletree’s coaching journey began well before he arrived at UTRGV. His earlier years at Dallas from 1958 to 1965 and Sul Ross State from 1966 to 1968 contributed to his total career wins, bringing his overall tally to 1,208 victories. This remarkable statistic places him among the top 40 winningest coaches in NCAA history.
Recognitions and Hall of Fame Inductions
In recognition of his contributions to collegiate baseball, Coach Al was inducted into the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987. Additionally, he received the honor of being one of the inaugural members of the UTPA Athletics Hall of Fame in 2007. His legacy extends beyond numbers; Coach Al is remembered for shaping the lives of countless student-athletes and earning national recognition for the Rio Grande Valley.
Celebrating Coach Al’s Lasting Impact
The dedication event will bring together city leaders, university officials, coaches, and community members to honor Coach Al Ogletree’s enduring legacy. This public ceremony invites everyone to celebrate the significant impact he has had on the college baseball landscape and the many lives he influenced in the process.
Event Details
- Who: City of Edinburg & UTRGV
- What: Official Street Dedication for Coach Al Ogletree Way
- Where: Corner of Sugar Rd. & Schunior St. (Baseball Stadium Parking Lot)
- When: Monday, November 3, at 10 a.m.
Conclusion
The official dedication of "Coach Al Ogletree Way" not only serves as a physical tribute to a remarkable coach but also as a reminder of the values he instilled in his players and the community. Everyone is encouraged to participate in this celebration of an American sports icon whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
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