Hall of Fame | 7/30/2024 12:00:00 PM
Goodwell, OK – Oklahoma Panhandle State University is proud to announce the induction of Doug Williams into the 2024 OPSU Athletics Hall of Fame. Williams, a standout football player for the Aggies from 2009 to 2010, has left an indelible mark on the university's athletic program and continues to inspire through his professional and personal achievements.
During his tenure at OPSU, Williams garnered numerous accolades that showcased his exceptional talent and dedication. In 2009, he was honored as 1st Team All-Independent League, 2nd Team All-Super Region, and 3rd Team All-American. His outstanding performance continued into 2010, earning him 1st Team All-Independent League honors once again. Williams' contributions on the field were instrumental in elevating the Aggies' football program during his time at the university. In 2009 Williams finished with 74 catches 1,175 yards and 17 touchdowns. In his career, he finished with 151 catches 1,982 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Following his collegiate career, Williams embarked on a six-year journey in arena football, demonstrating his versatility and skill across several teams. He began with the Nebraska Danger 2011, then achieved back-to-back championships with the Amarillo Venom in (2012-2013). His career continued with the San Jose Sabercats (2014), the Las Vegas Outlaws (2015), and the Colorado Crush (2016). Throughout his arena football career, Williams showcased his dedication and passion for the sport, earning respect and admiration from teammates and fans alike.
In 2016, Williams married Monica, whom he met at Panhandle State. Together, they have two children, Braylon, born in 2014, and Kyson, born in 2019. Beyond his athletic achievements, Williams has made significant contributions off the field as well. After retiring from professional football, he became a special education teacher and is currently a PE teacher, coaching middle school football and boys' and girls' middle school basketball in northern Colorado. During his arena football years, he also worked as a substitute teacher, demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship.
Reflecting on his time at OPSU, Williams credits several individuals who had a profound impact on his development. Coach Wyatt, who believed in his abilities and talents, gave him a chance to play out his dream. Williams also acknowledges the influence of Coach Guidry, Coach Thompson, Coach Womack, and Coach Wilson. He fondly remembers his teammates, including Vinny Gay, Kevin Lauchland, Tim O'Neil, Gilbert Pedroza, Kervin Delma, Andrew Walker, Steven Kassner, Quentin Green, Nick Collins, Justice Patterson, Jigjeet Sidhu, Joe Middleton, Michael Cole, Daryl Brister, Aaron Fryer, and Patrick Klein and many others, who all contributed to his memorable experience at OPSU.
Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is a significant honor for Williams. "It validates sacrifice, dedication, hard work, adversity, and fighting through it to get to this point," he said. "I appreciate the opportunities from Coach Wyatt and played with great teammates who made it possible. Sharing this honor with my family, especially my wife Monica, who helped push me, is special. It also serves as motivation for my students. This is a great moment, I wish I could share it with both parents, who sacrificed so much for my career."
