TOP SPORTS STORIES OF 2019: #8 – Ode to UTPB linebacker Chris Hoad

by: Ben Peck, ODESSA, TX (Big 2/Fox 24)

Posted: Dec 28, 2019 / 08:19 PM CST

Updated: Dec 28, 2019 / 08:19 PM CST

As 2019 comes to a close, we’ll be taking a look at some of the Basin’s top sports stories of the year.

This fall, UTPB football found unmatched success in the program’s fourth year of competition.

The Falcons finished with a 2-9 record each season from 2016-18. They were able to double that win total in 2019, finishing up at 4-7 (2-6).

Through it all, senior linebacker Chris Hoad quickly established himself as one of the cornerstones of the program.

As a junior, Hoad was named the Lone Star Conference Linebacker of the Year.

He won the award again in 2019, along with several other notable honors. Hoad became the team’s first AP 1st Team Division II All-American.

He was also named a 2nd Team Division II All-American by the American Football Coaches Association and was one of 36 nominees for the Harlon Hill Trophy (Division II Player of the Year).

On November 16th, Hoad took the field for the final time with UTPB – a Senior Night contest against Texas A&M-Kingsville.

On the final play of the first half, sophomore linebacker John O’Kelley forced a takeaway and had a clear path to the endzone for an 85-yard touchdown. Instead, O’Kelley handed the ball to Hoad allowing the senior to score in his final game.

The selfless play was viewed by millions and brought national media exposure to UTPB football.

The Falcons went on the win that game, 70-14. Afterwards, Hoad was named the Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Week.

Watch the video above for more!