TITLE: Recognizing Richard Whitaker on the occasion of his retirement.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Richard Whitaker on the occasion of his retirement.

FULL TEXT:
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.