On Saturday, Aug. 26 our athletic department celebrated the athleticism, dedication and determination of former athletes as we welcomed our Class of 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees with a banquet at the Hollenstein Career and Technology Center. This event also coincided with the thrilling Saginaw vs. Boswell Wagon Wheel football game held the night before where the inductees were recognized after the first quarter.
Established in 2011, the EMS ISD Hall of Fame was created to recognize former members of the EMS ISD family who have not only excelled in their athletic endeavors but have also made lasting impacts on the district and community. This year's class of inductees comprised four individuals and one team with an exciting twist - the inclusion of Saginaw High School inductees for the first time.
Donique Flemings, a member of Saginaw's High School Class of 2009, showcased her prowess in track and field. She was the 4A State Champion in both the 100m Hurdles and 300m Hurdles. Flemings also claimed the title of two-time district champion in the 300m hurdles and district champion in the 100m and 4x400m relay events. Her excellence extended to the regional level, where she secured championship titles in both the 300m hurdles and 100m hurdles. One of her remarkable feats is her current status as the State Record Holder in the 300m hurdles. She was also named to the Texas Track and Field Coaches Association All-Decade Team 2001-2010 and additionally earned the title of Gatorade Texas Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year. Flemings' journey didn't stop there; she continued her track and field career at Texas A&M where her athletic excellence persisted, and she earned a BA in Agricultural Communication and Journalism. In 2021, she returned to EMS ISD as a substitute teacher with the aim of becoming a SPED teacher at her alma mater, Saginaw High School.
The 2012 Saginaw Boys Gymnastics Team joined Flemings in EMS ISD Athletic Hall of Fame history. Comprising talented athletes PJ Alvarado, Clayton Brightwell, Will Chau, Nick Cooper, Jacob Doest, Colton Driver, Alex Kosch, Devin Kyrk, Justin Mortin, Raul Ortega, Christian Palacios, Steven Ramirez, Kenny Smith, Justin Stringfellow, Christian Temprachan, Taylor Watson and Grant Woolridge, this team, under the guidance of Coach Eric Briley, achieved greatness that made school history. Their collective achievements include clinching the titles of District, Regional, and State champions. Colton Driver emerged as the Co-State Champion on the Pommel Horse, showcasing individual brilliance within the team's outstanding performance. They also had three individuals secure regional championship wins in an impressive seven events, while four individuals claimed district champion titles across six events. Their success exemplifies the dedication and teamwork that are the essence of the EMS ISD Athletic Hall of Fame.
Congratulations to all our 2023 Hall of Fame inductees! #EMSproud
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