How Inductees Are Chosen
This page outlines how individuals are nominated and selected for induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
Eligibility Requirements
Who can be nominated?
Any athlete, coach, or administrator (male or female, living or deceased) is eligible for induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame (TSHOF). Nominees are selected based on their lasting fame and contributions to Texas sports. The goal is to recognize individuals whose achievements and legacies have made a permanent impact on athletics in our state. Individuals must Must be either born in Texas or played a significant part of their career in the Lone Star State.
The Nomination Process
The path to the Hall starts with the public, anyone can submit a nomination. Nominations must be received by June 1st to be considered for the current year’s class, but we accept them year-round. Submissions should include a completed Nomination Form along with supporting materials such as a biography, career statistics, press coverage, and letters of recommendation. Whether you’re a fan, peer, or community member, your voice plays a vital role in recognizing excellence.
The Selection Process
Once nominations close, our Selection Committee made up of at least 21 respected sportswriters and media professionals from across Texas meets to review and vet each nominee.
The committee considers factors such as:
- Athletic or professional achievement
- Longevity and consistency
Impact on their sport - Contribution to Texas sports history
- Character and integrity
This review process helps ensure that each class of inductees reflects the highest standards of the Hall of Fame.
The committee organizes two ballots: a “Primary” ballot with up to 20 names and a “Veterans” ballot with up to 12. Each year, up to ten inductees may be honored across both categories.
Biographical summaries are prepared by TSHOF staff and sent out to our voting body, which includes board members, current inductees, and voting members. The votes are compiled and tabulated, and the final inductees are confirmed by the TSHOF Board of Trustees.
Inductees must attend the annual induction banquet to be officially honored. If a nominee is elected but declines induction for two consecutive years without a valid reason, they will be removed from future ballots for five years.
The 4-Step Path to Induction
Nominations Reviewed
All submissions are reviewed by the Selection Committee.
Evaluation
Nominees are vetted for accomplishments, character, and connections to Texas.
Voting
The committee votes to determine the year’s finalists.
Board Approval
Final inductees are confirmed by the TSHOF Board.
Induction Ceremony
Inductees are officially honored during the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, one of the Hall’s most significant annual events.
The ceremony brings together inductees, families, fans, and members of the Texas sports community to celebrate the achievements and stories of each honoree.
COMMITMENT TO INTEGRITY
A Transparent and Respectful Process
The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is committed to maintaining a selection process that is fair, consistent, and worthy of the honor it represents.Each step of the process is guided by respect for the history of Texas sports and the individuals whose contributions have shaped it.