By: Kristyn Hunt Cathey, APR – Director of Communications

Coach Al Dennis, a proud product of Baytown and a graduate of Lee High School, was honored with a naming ceremony at Sterling High School on November 3rd. Goose Creek CISD Athletic Director, Lee Martinez, and Assistant Athletic Director, Greg Smith, spoke at the May 2022 Board meeting in favor of naming Sterling High School football field after Coach Dennis. The Board unanimously approved the recommendation and the process of honoring Coach Dennis began.

Coach Al Dennis and his family pose in front of the plaque in his honor at the new Coach Al Dennis Field at Sterling High School.

The packed crowd of friends, family and former players, coaches and teammates, reunited in honor of their revered coach. Four of his former players spoke, at times getting emotional, on the impact he made on their lives. The former players in attendance, many of whom had not seen each other in decades, including Board Secretary Howard Sampson, unveiled Coach Dennis’ named that was painted on the field. Near the end of the ceremony, Coach Dennis gave a message to his players; reminiscent of his time as their head coach 50 years ago. At the end of the event, Dennis and his family unveiled the bronze plaque in his honor that is placed at the entrance of the field.

Dennis came to Goose Creek in 1967 and was selected as the head football coach at Sterling High School in 1972. That was also his most successful year; with a 13-2 record and a district championship. Under his leadership, the Sterling Rangers were a constant competitor district and state-wide for over a decade; which was no small feat. He had a consistent winning record for nine out of his 11 years as head football coach and his 1972 team holds the title of being the only team to reach the UIL Football State Championship in Sterling High School history.

Photos by Mima Trujillo

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