Chris Koetting, Canadian High School’s newly retired athletic director, is honored as the 201st inductee into the 65th Annual Texas Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame. A ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. in the Grand Plaza of the Amarillo Civic Center.
Canadian Wildcat coach Koetting was the head coach of the greatest football dynasty in Texas Panhandle history. From 2010 to 2022, its teams were 165-24 and won three state championships: 2014, 2015, and 2020. The 2015 team is widely considered the best 2A team in state history.
With three state titles to his credit, Coach Koetting is the only regional coach with three state titles, along with Blair Cherry of Amarillo High (1934-36). Koetting’s 49 playoff wins with the Wildcats are the most of any coach in Texas Panhandle history.
Coach Koetting will be among five inductees, which are likely the highest class ever inducted into the Hall of
Fame. In addition, five special awards will be presented at the ceremony, as well as presentations to Coaches and Athletes of the Year in eleven sports.
Texas Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame Charman Jon Mark Beilue extended a special invitation to Canada’s ISD faculty, administration and students to attend the June 11 ceremony and witness this special coach and man aspire to them way is honored.
“I’m letting you know because I’m sure it would mean a lot for Coach Koetting to have the support of the school district where he has thrived like no other Texas Panhandle football coach,” Beilue said, adding : “One of them.” The prerequisite for admission is that you have retired as a player or coach. The highest honor is to sign a player or coach immediately upon retirement. Canyon’s Joe Lombard is an example. Coach Koetting is different. There just aren’t many.”
Admission to the induction ceremony is free.
“Gamer. Introvert. Problem solver. Creator. Thinker. Lifelong food evangelist. Alcohol advocate.”