In the news:
District to honor biggest fan
of Pasadena sports and youth

Throughout the years, Pasadena ISD high school football players, coaches, cheerleaders and members of the band and drill teams have all shared one thing in common.

They all know "Walter."

Walter Woodard was known as "the biggest fan of Pasadena sports." He attended almost every football game for the past three decades and was even honorary coach of the 1973 World Series Colt League baseball All-Star team.

For his dedication and support of the Pasadena schools over the years, the Pasadena ISD Board of Trustees will present Woodard with a special commendation at their regular monthly meeting at 7 p.m., Nov. 18 at the district's Administration Building, 1515 Cherrybrook. A reception will be held for Woodard at 6:30 p.m. before the meeting.

At an early age, Walter enjoyed the camaraderie and excitement of local sports.  From leading the band at halftime to coaching the team on the sidelines, Walter was an important part of every high school game.

"Walter was our biggest fan, our largest supporter, our word of encouragement and our motivation," said Fred Roberts, Board Member and Pasadena High School alumnus. "There is not a student alive starting back from the late 50's to the 90's that did not know Walter."

Woodard enrolled in Pasadena Schools in 1958 at the age of 12. His education included years at San Jacinto Intermediate, Pasadena High School then moving to Sam Rayburn High School when it opened. He graduated from Sam Rayburn in 1966.

Woodard's sister-in-law Claudett Woodard said Walter fondly remembers coaches Ray Cleckler, Bob Barfield, Buddy Caulk and Bobby Graham. His other favorite instructors were junior high math teacher Grace Grantham, physical education teacher Odell Harrison and his junior high science teacher Ms. Kirkpatrick. 

The City of Pasadena recently honored Woodard at a special ceremony renaming the Toys for Tots Softball Tournament as the Walter Woodard Toys for Tots Softball Tournament. Pasadena Mayor Johnny Isbell describes Woodard as an "icon" in the community who is known for his support of youth baseball and other sports, as well as work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, city food drives and other community services.

"Countless youth baseball, basketball and football players in our community will no doubt hold fond memories of 'Coach' Walter who cheered them on to victories, reprimanded them when necessary, routinely called 'foul ball' during baseball games and reminded players to tuck in their shirttails," Isbell said in the city's proclamation. 

Woodard was present at the softball tournament to accept a trophy from the city that stood as tall as his lanky frame, but poor health has kept him away from the football stadium and baseball fields to cheer on the student-athletes. 

"We believe such a special individual should be publicly recognized and commended for his outstanding devotion," said Dr. Kirk Lewis, Pasadena ISD superintendent. "His spirit and enthusiasm are contagious and will live on forever." 

Walter loves to receive cards and letters. They can be sent to him at Friendswood Health Care Center, 213 E. Heritage Drive, Friendswood, TX. 77546.