AURORA — The Colorado High School Activities Association announced its 21st Hall of Fame class Tuesday, and leading the inductees is Cherry Creek’s Fred Tesone, who was the model for suburban football.
Over 27 years, Tesone was 272-49-2 with 22 league titles, 23 state playoff berths and state championships in 1982, 1983 and 1986.
Sandra Cole coached Platte Valley to the most volleyball state championships, nine; had a career record of 325-53; and is a 2009 National High School Coaches Hall of Fame inductee.
Melody Fairchild of Boulder remains the top prep female distance runner ever in Colorado, winning two national championships in cross country and numerous state titles in track. She was the first schoolgirl nationally to break 10 minutes in the 2-mile run.
The late Charles “Gib” Gardner of Manual was a top-flight coach and official. He coached multiple sports and had a 46-year career.
Don Miller of Glenwood Springs coached football for 33 years, and his teams were 204-174-4 with 17 playoff appearances and state titles in 1978 and 1980.
Fred Rodriguez was a Steel City fixture for decades as a coach and administrator and hosted numerous playoff events to keep Pueblo prominent.
Richard Tate of East was one of the city’s finest three-sport athletes, played football for Pat Panek and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers.
The induction is Jan. 27 at the Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast. The night will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $45. For information, call 303-344-5050.
