The Irving ISD Athletic Hall of Fame Committee announces the class of 2013. This is the second annual induction ceremony honoring those who have contributed to the long history of athletics in Irving ISD. This outstanding group will be honored with a banquet at Nimitz High School on Saturday, June 15 at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets are currently on sale in the Irving ISD Athletic Department office in the administration building. Tickets are $25.00 for adults. Tickets for students and for Irving ISD employees are $15.00.
THE 2013 CLASS INCLUDES:
Kerry Cooks – athlete – Kerry played football at Nimitz High School where he was team MVP, all-district and all metroplex. He was Dr Pepper Player of the Year and an all state selection at defensive back. He went on to play for the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1993-1997 where he earned all Big Ten honors. He played in the National Football League for the Minnesota Vikings and for Green Bay, Atlanta and Jacksonville. He returned to Nimitz to coach in 2003. From Nimitz, he went on to coach at Kansas State, Western Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. He is currently co-defensive coordinator at Notre Dame and helped lead the Irish to the National Championship game in 2012-2013.
Joy and Ralph Ellis – Community – For over 35 years, Joy and Ralph Ellis have been making a difference in the lives of Irving ISD student athletes by contributing to a scholarship fund for graduates of Irving ISD high schools who participate in athletic programs. Currently the Joy and Ralph Ellis Scholarship for Athletes is awarded to four graduating seniors. The scholarships assist the students with their college education to the tune of $6,000 each over their college years. In addition to the scholarships, Joy and Ralph have made many other contributions to Irving ISD for athletic, academic and library programs.
Michael Huff – athlete – Michael graduated from Nimitz High School in 2001. While at Nimitz he participated in football and track. After a standout career with the Vikings, Michael went on to the University of Texas where he gained freshman All America honors. Michael became a full time starter his sophomore year and followed his junior year with all Big 12 and Honorable Mention All America honors. During his senior season he became one of the most decorated players in the nation. As one of the leaders on the Longhorns National Championship team, Michael was unanimous All American and winner of the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the outstanding defensive back in the nation. He was the seventh overall pick in the 2006 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders. Michael currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens.
Joe Perryman – coach – Joe Perryman coached at Bowie, Nimitz and Lamar before joining the central athletic office as stadium manager in 1991. Coach Perryman worked for the Irving ISD from 1965 – 1994. His thirty year career included coaching football, baseball, softball and gymnastics. He began his career working under Hall of Fame athletic director Bob Harrell. Joe still enjoys attending events at the stadium he once managed.
Ann Uhr – coach – At a time when girl’s athletics were coming into vogue, Ann Uhr led the way by coaching volleyball, cross country and track & field at Irving High School. Ann’s track and cross country teams were legendary, winning multiple district and regional titles. She was known all over this part of the state as an innovator and was highly respected by all who knew her. Her Irving High teams served as a model for all those in the DFW area.
