In a celebration of athletic excellence, the El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 class of inductees, featuring an impressive lineup of eight individuals who have made significant contributions to sports in the region. The announcement was made on April 3, 2025, by Hall of Fame president Ruben Ramirez, who highlighted the diversity and accomplishments of this year's inductees.
The 2025 class includes three outstanding athletes, two accomplished coaches, a dedicated trainer, a respected media member, and a late coach, all of whom have left a lasting impact on the El Paso sports community. Among the inductees is Kendra Chambers Coleman, a former star track athlete from Hanks High School who has recently retired after a distinguished professional career as a middle-distance runner. Coleman is celebrated for her impressive achievements, including being an eight-time All-American and a four-time Big 12 champion at the University of Texas.
Joining Coleman in the Hall of Fame is Cory Herman, the former head coach of the El Paso Rhinos, a hockey team that captured two national championships under his leadership. Herman was instrumental in El Paso being recognized as Kraft Hockeyville USA in 2020, a title that brought national attention to the city’s hockey scene.
Other notable inductees include Bobby R. Kirkley, who made his mark as a basketball player at Parkland High School and later at Eastern New Mexico University, where he led the NAIA in scoring in 1975. Natalia Hinojo, a wrestler from Montwood High School, also earns her place in the Hall of Fame after going undefeated with a 35-0 record in 2012 and qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Trials.
Yesenia Alarcon-Ortega, the volleyball coach at El Paso High School, is recognized for her remarkable coaching tenure, during which she has led her team to nine district championships and over 465 career wins. Additionally, Scott Smelser, a trainer from Eastwood High School, is being inducted for his dedication to student-athletes, having taped more than 25,000 ankles in his 30 years at the school.
Former El Paso Times sports editor Joe Muench will also be honored for his contributions to sports journalism, having covered 24 Sun Bowls during his 40-year career. Finally, the late Leon Wade, a youth track coach who passed away earlier this year, will be inducted posthumously. Wade coached numerous athletes, including NFL stars Aaron and Alvin Jones, as well as Kendra Chambers Coleman.
The induction banquet is set to take place on June 24, 2025, at El Paso Community College, where family, friends, and fans will gather to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming ceremony, the Hall of Fame continues to shine a light on the rich athletic history of El Paso, honoring those who have paved the way for future generations.
In a separate but equally inspiring story, John Wright, a 1980 graduate of Marion Harding High School, is set to be inducted into the school's Athletic Hall of Fame as part of its 31st class on April 4, 2025. Wright, who was informed of his induction by his friend and former teammate Ralph Hill, expressed his gratitude for being remembered after 45 years.
Wright’s journey in athletics began with basketball and football, but it was track and field where he truly excelled. He fondly recalls the individuality of track, stating, "It's not that I'm not a team player. I just like the individuality of it. I could do my own thing basically." Under the guidance of head coach Lee Myers, Wright thrived, helping the Harding track team secure the Buckeye Conference title for the first time in 20 years during his senior year.
Throughout his high school career, Wright set numerous records, including outdoor school records in the 440-yard relay, mile relay, and sprint relay. Indoors, he held records in various events such as the 50 yards, 55 meters, and the 400 meters. He was also a standout in jumping events, setting school records in the long jump and triple jump.
Wright's athletic achievements culminated in his participation at the state meet, where he faced challenging weather conditions but remained proud of his performance. He recalls, "It was overwhelming, and it was freezing, too, that day. I don’t think we were prepared for that weather while warming up. It was bad. It was great and bad at the same time."
After graduating, Wright spent a year at Benedict College in South Carolina before enlisting in the Marines. Following 13 years of service, he has worked in security, currently at Norfolk International Airport in Virginia. He has been married to Barbara Wright since 1996 and they share four children.
Reflecting on his journey, Wright expresses deep appreciation for Coach Myers, stating, "I was lucky I had him in my life back then. I’m lucky he was my coach." His story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact coaches can have on their athletes, shaping their lives both on and off the field.
As both the El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame and Marion Harding High School prepare to honor their inductees, these events highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of those who have dedicated their lives to sports.
