Corsicana, TX – Navarro College is proud to announce the 2026 class of inductees into the Bulldog Hall of Fame, honoring an exceptional group of former student-athletes and contributors whose achievements, leadership, and lasting impact have helped shape the rich tradition of Bulldog athletics.

District President Dr. Kevin G. Fegan welcoming guests.

Executive Director of Student Services and Athletics Michael Landers presenting Class of 2026 inductees.

 

The induction ceremony and luncheon will take place on Saturday, September 26, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cook Education Center in Corsicana.

This year's class represents excellence across multiple sports and includes individuals whose accomplishments have reached the collegiate, professional, and international levels.

Wasila Diwura-Soale (Soccer, 2017–18)

One of the most decorated players in Navarro Soccer history, Wasila Diwura-Soale helped lead the Bulldogs to back-to-back Top 5 national finishes while earning NJCAA First-Team All-American honors in both 2017 and 2018. She continued her career at LSU, where she was an All-SEC performer, and has since competed professionally in the USL Women's League while also representing Ghana as a member of the Black Queens, the country's senior women's national team.

Leroy Fields (Football, 1995–96)

Originally arriving at Navarro on a basketball scholarship, Leroy Fields joined the Bulldog football program as a walk-on before becoming an NJCAA First-Team All-American wide receiver. Following his Navarro career, he was the nation's No. 1 wide receiver recruit before signing with the University of Oklahoma. He remains among Navarro's all-time leaders in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns and was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.

Ruben Garces (Basketball, 1993–95)

Ruben Garces starred for Coach Lewis Orr before transferring to Providence College. He went on to enjoy an outstanding international and professional career, representing the Panamanian National Team for 26 seasons while competing in 30 international tournaments, including three world championships. Garces also played in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns and Golden State and enjoyed a professional career that spanned more than 15 years.

Bryan Gathright (Football/Golf, 1976–77)

A placekicker on Coach Harold Hern's back-to-back conference championship football teams and a member of Navarro's golf program, Bryan Gathright has become one of the most respected golf instructors in the country. Named among Golf Magazine's Lifetime Top 100 Teachers, he is a multiple-time recipient of the Texas PGA Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year Award and since 1987 has coached players to victories on the PGA, LPGA, Korn Ferry Tour, and other professional tours.

David Hulse (Baseball, 1986–88)

An all-conference performer for Coach Adron Paul, David Hulse was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 13th round of the 1990 MLB Draft. He became the Rangers' starting centerfielder in 1993 and went on to play five Major League seasons with the Rangers and Milwaukee Brewers.

Don Jessie (Football, 1976–77)

A cornerstone of Coach Harold Hern's football teams that captured back-to-back conference championships, Don Jessie earned all-conference honors twice and was named an NJCAA First-Team All-American in 1977. After Navarro, he continued his success at the University of Wyoming, where he also earned all-conference recognition. Jessie passed away in 2023, and his wife, Felicia, will accept the honor on his behalf.

Jordan Lockwood (Volleyball, 2019)

A key member of Navarro's undefeated 2019 NJCAA National Championship volleyball team, Jordan Lockwood enjoyed one of the most remarkable individual seasons in program history. She was named Region XIV Conference MVP, Region Tournament MVP, National Tournament MVP, and earned First-Team All-American honors from both the NJCAA and AVCA. She was also recognized as the NJCAA and AVCA Junior College National Player of the Year.

Richard Aldama (Contributor, 1979–Present)

For more than four decades, Richard Aldama has been a tireless advocate and ambassador for Navarro College athletics. A Distinguished Alumni recipient, Aldama served as the "Voice of the Bulldogs" for football, basketball, and baseball from 1979 through 2007. His unwavering dedication and commitment to Navarro College have made him a beloved figure and a true embodiment of the Bulldog spirit.

 

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Navarro College invites alumni, friends, and the community to join in celebrating these Bulldog legends during the Bulldog Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon on Saturday, September 26, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cook Education Center in Corsicana.

For event and ticket information, please visit the Navarro College Bulldog Hall of Fame website or contact Michael Landers at (903) 875-7488 or Amber Denny at (903) 875-7670.