Saturday, July 27th, 2024

Kenneth Wallace | 1967-1969 | Estacado High School | Football

Kenneth Wallace began his career in 1968 leading the Estacado High School Football Team to a 14-0 record and a state championship in the school’s first year of varsity competition, but his football career was far from over. Scoring 552 points in 1968 alone, it is no surprise that this starting quarterback is being recognized for his achievements. With Wallace on the team, Estacado became the first school in Texas history to win a state championship in their first year of competition. Wallace carried his unmatched work ethic and talent in to the next year, scoring a total of 403 points and helping Estacado achieve a 9-1 record. Coaches, teammates, and city leaders credit the leadership of Kenneth Wallace in setting the winning foundation for Estacado Football.After graduating in 1970, Wallace attended Texas Tech University with a full football scholarship as a defensive back. He played in the 1972 Sun Bowl and the 1973 Gator Bowl. Wallace All-Southwest Conference honors in 1973 and 1974. His respectful and professional demeanor helped him to receive the 1973 Donny Anderson Sportsmanship Award. He also earned a spot on the Second-Team All-American Football Team in 1973 and 1974, and was a part of the Coaches All-American All Star Game during those same years. Wallace did not just go above and beyond on the field; he went on to become the first African-American football player to graduate from Texas Tech.Wallace’s passion for football continued as he went on to coach at Dunbar High School and Coronado High School, earning Coach of the Year in 1981 and 1982 at Dunbar, and that same distinction in 1987 at Coronado.

In 1999 Wallace was selected as one of the South Plains’ Top 100 Athletes.

His admirable leadership skills made him an easy choice for school principal at both Estacado and North Shore Senior High School (Galena Park). From 2005-2006 and 2009-2010 Wallace was named Secondary Principal of the Year in Galena Park ISD, and from 2006-2007 Wallace earned the Region IV Principal of the Year award. Wallace now serves as the Deputy Superintendent for Educational Support and School Administration in Galena Park ISD.
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