Recognizing Richard Whitaker on the occasion of his retirement.

89(R) SR 390 - Enrolled version - Bill Text

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 390

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to

recognize Richard Whitaker, who is retiring as head football

coach and athletic director at Calhoun High School after 20 years

of transformative leadership at the school and 35 years of

coaching; and

WHEREAS, Richard Whitaker developed a love of sports as a

young and multitalented high school athlete under the direction

of coach Buddy Brashear; he accepted a pole vaulting scholarship

from Northwestern State University in Louisiana, where he was

inspired to direct his passion for athletics into a rewarding

career path; and

WHEREAS, Richard was honored to begin his coaching career

at Aldine High School and to work alongside legendary football

coach Bill Smith, who inspired him to adopt the highly effective

strategy known as the veer offense; Richard went on to become

head football coach at Kingsville High School, and during his

third season, he led the team to compete in the playoffs for the

first time in decades; and

WHEREAS, In 2005, Coach Whitaker accepted the role of head

football coach and athletic director of Calhoun High School, and

the following year, he guided the relatively unknown small-town

football team into the playoffs; under his skilled leadership,

Calhoun became known as a powerhouse in high school football, and

from 2018 through 2020, the Sandcrabs dominated competition with

some of the best rushing teams in the nation; and

WHEREAS, Despite Coach Whitaker's numerous trophies and

accolades, his coaching achievements are secondary to his

sincere investment in the well-being of the many young athletes

he has supported both on and off the field; he has served as a

trusted mentor and role model to countless young athletes and has

imparted wisdom and guidance to help foster their success in

every facet of life; and

WHEREAS, Richard Whitaker is an esteemed figure in Texas

high school football and in the coaching profession, and he is a

treasured member of the Calhoun community; he has set lasting

standards for excellence at Calhoun High School, and his presence

and leadership as head coach and athletic director will be

greatly missed; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th

Legislature, hereby commend Richard Whitaker on his exemplary

career and his outstanding tenure at Calhoun High School and

extend to him best wishes for the future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for

him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Kolkhorst

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the

above Resolution was adopted by

the Senate on April 10, 2025.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate