RHS Class of 2009; Courtney was an outstanding Lady Mountie athlete. She was a 4-year varsity letterman in cross country, track, and swimming. She earned All-State in cross-country three times, All-State in indoor track three times, and All-State in outdoor track twice. Courtney was also selected to the Footlocker All-South team twice. She led three Lady Mountie teams to state championships and also won nine individual state championships. During her career, Courtney set records in the mile, two-mile, and 4 x 800 Relay. She continued her track and cross-country career at the University of Central Arkansas.
RHS Class of 2009; Cameron is the greatest male distance runner to ever don a Mountie uniform. During his Mountie career, Cameron was a member of seven state championship teams while also winning nine individual state championships, something no other Mountie athlete has ever accomplished. Cameron earned All-State honors all four years in cross-country and was a 3-time All-State track athlete in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Cameron still holds the Mountie record for the mile and is the second fastest runner in Mountie history for both the 800 meter and 2-mile races. Cameron continued his track career as an Arkansas Razorback where he became an All-American in 2013.
RHS Class of 2012; Ashley was an outstanding Lady Mountie softball athlete. She was a 4-year varsity letterman during her time at RHS. She was selected All-Conference her freshman and sophomore seasons and was selected All-State her junior and senior seasons. She was selected to play in the Arkansas All-Star game her senior year. Ashley is 3rd all-time in single season hits with 50 and holds the career record for hits with 153. She also holds the record for most runs scored in a season with 43 and career runs with 113. Ashley is still in the top ten of many other offensive Lady Mountie softball statistics.
RHS Class of 1971; Randy was only a Mountie for his senior year, but what he accomplished was nothing short of historic. In his one year as a Mountie, Randy became the all-time single season scoring leader as well as the all-time career scoring leader at that time. Randy led the Mounties to a 22-win season, improving the team that had a losing record the year before. Randy still ranks in the top 10 of career scorers in Mountie Basketball history. He was selected to play in the Arkansas All-Star game and was named to the All-Conference Tournament team in 1971. Randy continued his playing career at the University of Arkansas for the Razorbacks both in basketball and baseball.
RHS Class of 1980; Adam was a terrific tennis player and leader during his time as a Mountie. He represented the school as the #1 singles player and was also part of the #1 doubles team all four years of his career. In 1979, he and his double’s partner were 4A Conference Champions and State Runner-Up along with being selected to play in the Tournament of Champions. He defended his conference title in 1980 in doubles competition as well. Adam was also the RHS Student Body President in 1980.
HUNTER MOBLEY, SLADE HAMES, MATT KELLER, WEST LOVELAND, JES SANDERS, and COACH MARCUS ALEXANDER. These young men and their coach put together one of the greatest seasons of any Mountie golf team. They were 2007 Boys 7A West Conference Champions and 7A State Champions. In the state championship match they defeated Fayetteville by five strokes and Bentonville by 13. This team was an example of character, hard work, and dedication. They excelled both athletically on the golf course and academically in the classroom.
RHS Class of 1996; Corbin is one of the best all-around athletes to ever don a Mountie uniform. He was a varsity letterman in three sports: football, basketball, and baseball. He was selected All-State & All-Conference in football, All-Conference in basketball, and All-Conference in baseball his senior year. He was the go-to leader in all his athletic endeavors. Corbin continued his baseball career for two years at Labette Community College in Parsons, KS.
RHS Class of 2008; Alyvia was a standout athlete in soccer and cross country. Alyvia was selected All-State in soccer three times, and All-Conference four times. In soccer, she was a member of two state championship teams and was selected as the State Tournament MVP in 2006. In 2007, Alyvia was voted as the Arkansas Gatorade Female Soccer Player of the Year. In 2005 and 2007, she helped lead the Lady Mountie cross country team to a state championship while earning All-State recognition in 2005 and was also a member of the state champion indoor track team in 2008. In total, she contributed to five Lady Mountie state championship teams. Alyvia continued her athletic career playing soccer at Tulsa University where she excelled both on and off the pitch.
RHS Class of 1959; Ken was an outstanding player and leader for the Mountie football team. He was selected Co-Captain of the team his senior year. Ken earned All-Conference and All-State honors in 1958. He was also selected to play in the Arkansas All Star game where he caught the eyes of the coaches at Arkansas Tech University. He received a scholarship and played for four years as a Wonder Boy earning all A.I.C. honors in 1962. Upon graduation, Ken was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army and served his country honorably for 23 years, including two tours in Vietnam. Ken retired achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
RHS Class of 2009; Haley was terrific golfer for the Lady Mounties. Her junior year she won all six regular season matches in which she competed. She was the 7A Conference Champion and the 7A State Runner-up and Overall State Runner-up in 2007. In 2008, during Haley’s senior season she was a top five finisher in the same three tournaments. Haley was selected All-Conference and All-State both years she competed as a Lady Mountie. Haley continued her career at Ole Miss where she was a tournament player and All-SEC Academic performer for four years.
RHS Class of 1962; Lewis was a standout football player for the Mounties and was a 3-year varsity letterman. Lewis earned All-District honors twice and was selected All-State his senior year. Upon graduation, he continued his football career at Arkansas Tech University. Lewis was a longtime high school football coach in Russellville and an officer in the Army National Guard obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was previously inducted to the Russellville Athletic Hall of Fame.
Coach Alexander had a tenure of over three decades in the Rogers School District as a coach and educator. In her career, she was an assistant coach for several years and was the head coach of girls basketball, track, cross-country, volleyball & golf teams. She was also the head coach of the boys golf team, becoming the first female to coach a male sport in RHS history. She led the girls cross country team to a state championship in 1987 and the girls basketball team to a conference championship in 1991. Her golf teams produced individual champions, a state runner up, and multiple conference championships.
RHS Class of 1999; Nathan is one of the best all-around athletes in Rogers Mounties history. He was a varsity letterman in four sports - football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was selected All-State in football once, and All-State in basketball two years in a row. Nathan continued his playing career for the Arkansas Razorbacks in football where his versatility allowed him to be a 3-year starter while playing four different positions. He was a 4-year letterman for the Hogs and was selected as an All-SEC Academic performer twice.
RHS Class of 1985; Kim was a 3-year varsity letterman in basketball, volleyball, track, and cross country. She was selected All-Conference twice in basketball and once in volleyball. She was selected All-State in basketball her senior year. Kim was a member of three cross country state championship teams. She is listed in the top ten of numerous basketball and track records at RHS and was also the valedictorian of her senior class. Kim continued her basketball career at Missouri Southern State University where she excelled both on and off the court.
RHS Class of 2006; Early was a 2-sport athlete competing in soccer and cross country. She was a 4-year starter in soccer leading the Lady Mounties to a state runner-up and three consecutive state championships. She was selected All-State twice and All-Conference all four years that she competed. Early also ran cross country for four years and won two state championships. She was the first Latina athlete in RHS history to receive a scholarship to play soccer at the collegiate level. She continued her career playing at the University of Arkansas Little Rock and Northeastern State University.
RHS Class of 2006; Kane was a key player in leading a resurgence of Mountie basketball in the mid-2000’s. In his career, he was selected All-Conference three times and All-State twice. His senior season, he led the Mounties to a conference championship, state quarterfinals and a school record-setting conference performance with 14 wins and only 2 losses. His team finished with 24 overall victories that year, which is also a school record. Kane was selected to numerous All-Tournament teams and was awarded the KURM Dream Team Player of the Year.
RHS Class of 2007; Lee is one of the most storied football players in Rogers history. He was a 3-year varsity letterman who led the Mounties to an undefeated conference championship and state runner-up finish his senior year. He was selected a high school All-American by Parade Magazine, USA Today and Rivals and was the Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year in 2006. During his RHS career, he was selected 7A West All Conference three times and Arkansas All State his junior and senior years. Lee continued his career at Auburn University. At Auburn, he set a school record by starting every game from his freshman through senior seasons. He was an All-American offensive lineman, Jacob Trophy winner, and helped Auburn win the 2010 National Championship. Lee was drafted by the Carolina Panthers and continued his career in the NFL.
RHS Class of 1995; Doug was a three sport athlete in Football, Basketball, and Baseball. He earned Varsity Letters in both Football and Baseball, but it was Baseball where he truly excelled. During his senior year, Doug earned All-Conference and All-State honors and set the Arkansas State High School All Star game strikeout record with 10 strikeouts in only four innings of work. Even today, Doug remains in the top ten of numerous Mountie pitching statistics. He continued his pitching career in college starting at WestArk Community College and finishing as a starting pitcher for the University of Arkansas Little Rock Trojans. Upon graduation, Doug was a graduate assistant coach under Norm DeBriyn at the University of Arkansas, which led to an opportunity to play professional baseball for the River City Rascals.
RHS Class of 1968; Ike was a three sport athlete who lettered in Football, Basketball, and Track. He was the captain of the Basketball team his senior year and was considered by all that played with him the ultimate teammate and leader in every sport he participated in. Ike was a member of the 1967 undefeated Conference Champion Football Team where he was selected All-District. Ike also ran the 880 and anchored the mile relay team for the 1968 Conference Champion Track team. After high school he continued his football career playing four years for the Southern Arkansas University Muleriders. Ike used his football and leadership skills to accomplish a successful career as a longtime coach in Arkansas and Tennessee.
Mark had a long and tenured history as a supporter of Mountie Athletics. He was instrumental in introducing women’s sports not only to RHS but also the City of Rogers. At the age of 25, he was selected as the first Director of the Rogers School-Community Recreation Association, a partnership that still exists today as the Rogers Activity Center. Mark was the first ever volleyball coach at RHS, coached Girl’s Basketball, Girl’s Track, and Boys and Girls Tennis. Eventually, he moved into the administration as an Assistant Principal. He was known to all the coaches and athletes as a supporter, counselor, and encourager. Mark spent countless hours helping raise funds as a member of Whitey’s Chicken Cookin’ Crew. No one was more loyal and devoted to the Mounties than Mark!
RHS Class of 2010; Morgan is arguably the most outstanding basketball player to ever don a Lady Mountie uniform. She holds the Lady Mounties records in career points (1,517) and career assists (410). Morgan was recognized by the Arkansas Democrat Gazette as the Arkansas Sophomore of the Year in 2008 and in 2010 she was selected Arkansas’ Miss Basketball. In her junior and senior years, she was selected as the Gatorade Arkansas Girls Basketball Player of the Year - a first for a Rogers basketball player and one of only four girl basketball players in state history to win the award twice. Morgan’s #10 Lady Mounties jersey was retired following her senior year. Morgan continued her basketball career at the University of Oklahoma. She was selected 2nd team All Big 12 and was team co-captain her senior year, ranks 5th in OU history in career assists and is 3rd in OU women’s basketball history for career 3-pointers.
RHS Class of 2001; Scott is considered a legend in the historically successful Mountie Cross Country program. He was an All State runner three times and led the Mounties to the 5A State Championship in both 1997 and 1999. Scott was also All State in Indoor and Outdoor Track for the Mile and 2-Mile events. Scott continued his running career at Western State University in Gunnison, Colorado. He was an NCAA Cross Country All-American in 2003, and he also earned NCAA All-American status in 2004 as part of the Western State Indoor Distance Medley Relay Team.
RHS Class of 1971; Randy was an outstanding track athlete for the Mounties during his high school career. He was undefeated during the regular season his Senior year in the 120-yard high hurdles and the 180-low hurdles. At the state meet, Randy finished fourth and second in the two events respectively. Although hurdles were clearly his specialty, he also scored many points for the Mounties as the anchor on the mile relay team. Randy accomplished all of these feats without even having a track to practice on! The only time he ran on a track surface was at meets at other schools, the rest of the time he was practicing on the football field at Old Mountie Stadium! He was also an accomplished student leader and graduated with honors. Randy was the first Mountie to earn a full scholarship to run track at the University of Arkansas.
RHS Class of 2004; Brandon was a great Mountie athlete during his career at Rogers High School. He was a 3-year Varsity starter in football and a two-year starter in baseball. In football, he was selected All-State his Senior year. In that season alone, he amassed over 600 yards on 47 catches and 10 touchdowns. Brandon finished his career with 139 receptions and 19 touchdowns. In baseball, he was the starting 2nd baseman and earned All-Conference honors as a Senior. Brandon went on to continue his football career at the University of Memphis.
RHS Class of 1958; Charlie was selected by the Board of Directors as the first ever recipient of the “Distinguished Lifetime Achievement” category for the Rogers Mountaineer Athletic Hall of Fame. In 19 seasons as an NCAA Division 1 basketball coach, Charlie amassed a record of 373 wins against 202 losses. His D1 college coaching career began at Missouri State in 1983. He took the Bears to the NCAA tournament 5 times. In 1992, he became the head coach for St. Louis University. That team had only won 5 games the year before he took the reins. In year 2, he led the Billikens to the NCAA tournament for the first time in 27 years. His final coaching stop was leading the UNLV “Running Rebels” for 3 years, with 2 NIT appearances. Charlie was inducted into the Missouri Valley Conference Hall of Fame, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.
RHS Class of 2009; Aaron had one of the most decorated basketball careers of any Mountie boys basketball player in the history of Rogers High School. He was a 3-year Varsity letterman and holds the boy’s school record for career points having amassed 1,193 points in his 3 years as a Mountie. Aaron was selected All- Conference 3 times and All-State twice. He was a 2-time member of the All-State Tournament Team and a 4-time Holiday Tournament MVP. He capped his high school career being selected the MVP of the Arkansas High School All-Star game. During Aaron’s career, the Mounties finished with a record of 63-23 with three state tournament appearances finishing Elite 8, Final Four, and State Runner Up. Aaron continued his basketball career at Drake University. He then went on to play professionally in Europe.
RHS Class of 2006; Staci is credited by many as re-igniting a dominant cross-country program that had been in a 10-year drought without a State Championship. In her four years running for the Lady Mounties, her teams finished State Runner-up twice and won the program’s 13th and 14th State Championships. Staci was All-State for three years in both Cross Country and Track. During her career she set the Indoor Track record for the mile and 2 mile events. Staci even won the Chile Pepper Race as an 8th Grader! She continued her cross country and track career at Arkansas State University for four years.
Class of 1966; Billie Sue is the definition of a lifetime Mountie. She has supported Mountie coaches and athletes for many decades. When she was employed at RHS, she was an integral part of planning and coordinating Homecoming and Color Day festivities. She was a founding member of the Mountaineer Hall of Fame Board of Directors. Billie Sue’s honest opinion and input have been requested as a part of numerous coaching searches and hires. She has always supported those in the athletic program; whether it is her loyal presence at games or her encouraging letters to student-athletes and coaches. Billie Sue bleeds blue and is a living role model for the lifetime slogan—“Once a Mountie, Always a Mountie!”
The only Rogers Mountie basketball team to ever when a state championship. The 1956-57 Team was led by first year head coach Harol Beisel and All-Stater Steve Roberts. They were described as “the rugged Rogers five - a methodical, ball-controlling outfit with an excellent shifting zone defense”. The Mountaineers started their quest for a state championship by defeating a pesky Bentonville Tiger team 53-48 in the District tournament in Harrison to gain a berth in the state tournament in Jonesboro. Out of sixteen teams the only one left standing was the Rogers Mountaineers - truly a monumental achievement for both the school and our community. Rogers ended the year with a 22-5 record.
Class of 1982; Sheryl is one of the best basketball players to ever don a Lady Mountie uniform. She was a 3-time All-State selection as a guard for the Lady Mounties. She led the team in scoring both her Sophomore and Junior seasons. She had over 1,000 career points - one of only two Lady Mounties to ever accomplish this feat. The 1981 and 1982 teams were undefeated Conference Champions. Sheryl was nominated to the 1982 Converse All American Basketball Team. After high school, Sheryl continued her basketball career at Wichita State University. She was also an outstanding Cross Country athlete leading the Lady Mounties to back-to-back State Championships in 1980 and 1981.
Class of 2009; Michael was an outstanding Track & Field and Football athlete for the Mounties. He was the Arkansas State Champion in the Decathlon his Junior season amassing over 8,000 points. At the time, he was only the 3rd Junior and 11th person in Arkansas State History to eclipse that mark. Michael was also a key contributor for the Mountie Football team. Although a running back, he was the focus of the “Moonshine” Package where he might line up at Quarterback or Receiver. He was selected All Conference twice. After high school, Michael continued his Track career at the United States Air Force Academy where he competed in the pole vault, javelin, heptathlon, and decathlon. He was selected All Mountain West Conference four times. After graduating from the Academy, Michael continued in an outstanding career as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.
Class of 1998; Scott was a great Mountaineer baseball player during his high school career. He is still listed in the top ten of almost every statistical pitching and hitting record category. He holds the record for strikeouts in a season with 88 and most runs scored in a season with 48. He was selected All-Conference as a Junior and All-State as a Senior. He also represented the Mounties in the State All-Star game. After high school, Scott had a successful pitching career for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks where he was considered the most versatile pitcher on the staff.
RHS Class of 1995; Chris was a standout athlete his entire career at Rogers High School. He excelled in football, basketball, and track. In football, he was selected All Conference twice, and All State his Senior Year. As a varsity basketball player, he was selected All Conference his Junior and Senior Year. His success in track was evident by his being selected All Conference twice and finishing in the Top 10 of the state decathlon 2 years in a row. After graduating high school, Chris went on to play football for the Arkansas Razorbacks where he was a 4-year Letterman.
RHS Class of 1990; Troy is considered by many as setting the standard for Rogers High School cross country teams championship tradition. His leadership and dedication set the tone for a program that has been one of the best in the state for three decades. He was a member of the state champion 1988 and 1989 teams. He finished in 1st place in both of those state meets. In the state championship his senior year, Troy crushed the competition finishing over 1 min and 30 sec ahead of his nearest competitor! His record at the Arkadelphia course still stands today. Troy also led the track team to a Conference Championship and was the State Champion in the 3200 meter race his Senior Year.
RHS Class of 1979; Kim was a three sport standout his senior year at Rogers. He was the quarterback for the 1978 Conference Champion Mountie football team that was undefeated in the regular season. Kim was selected team MVP, All-Conference, and All-State in football. He was the team leader in scoring in Basketball and voted Mr. Defense. In track, Kim finished 3rd in the state decathlon competition. Kim was selected by the Arkansas Gazette as the Male Athlete of the Year for the State of Arkansas. He went on to play football for the Arkansas Razorbacks and was a 4-year letterman. Kim continued his football career by playing professionally in the USFL for the Memphis Showboats. After his playing days, Kim coached at the high school and college level for many years.
RHS Class of 1999; Ryan is one of the best baseball players to have ever donned a Mountie uniform. He was selected All Conference and All State his Senior Year for the Conference Champion Mounties. He is in the RHS recordbooks for most career homeruns at 21, most RBI’s in a season with 45, and is in the top ten in nine other individual record categories. As a pitcher his senior year, he finished 7-0 with an ERA of 2.09 which was 4th best in the State of Arkansas that season. Ryan went on to play college baseball for the Arkansas Razorbacks. He was drafted by the Colorado Rockies and played professionally for 8 years.
RHS Class of 1954; Ted is being recognized for his many years of distinguished service to the Mountie Athletic program. He is one of the longest standing supporters of everything Mountie. He volunteered his time for almost three decades as the head statistician for the Mountie football team - never missing a game either home or away. Ted continues to this day supporting all Mountie sports through attendance, financial assistance, and offering help in any way he can. Both male and female student athletes have benefited from Ted’s selfless acts of encouragement. He is a true example of “Once a Mountie, Always a Mountie”.
RHS Class of 2007; Cody is one of the most prolific quarterbacks in Rogers’ history. He was the leader of the 2006 Mountie football team that finished undefeated as 7A West Champions and ended up playing in the State Championship game, finishing Runner-up—their only loss on the season. Cody was selected All Conference and All State his Senior Year amongst many other accolades. Cody holds five offensive Mountie records including total yardage, rushing touchdowns, passes completed, passing yards, and best passing percentage. Cody went on to have a successful career at Missouri State University.
RHS Class of 1989; Angie was a three-sport star as a Lady Mountie. She excelled in volleyball, cross country, and basketball. She earned 4A West All Conference honors her senior year in both volleyball and basketball. She was also a member of the State Runner-up Cross Country team her sophomore season. Angie went on to play basketball at Auburn University where she made the SEC All-Academic team three times. Angie continues to use her athletic talents competing in triathlons across the world. In 2016, she reached a Top 15 ranking both nationally and internationally in her age division.
RHS Class of 1983; Gary was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and track. He is one of the greatest track athletes to ever walk the halls of Rogers High School. His senior year, Gary went undefeated in the regular season in the 300 meter hurdles, finished 2nd at the state meet, and then followed that with a 1st place finish at the Meet of Champions. His time at the Meet of Champions of 37.74 seconds is still the Rogers High School record. At the time it was the 8th fastest time in the United States and earned Gary All American status by the National High School Coaches Association.
RHS Class of 1991; Holly was a great competitor for the Lady Mountie basketball team. Her hard work and will to win propelled the Lady Mounties to a Conference Championship her senior year. She was the starting point guard and leading scorer, averaging 14 points a game. She also led the team in assists and steals during that season. Holly was selected All-Conference and All-State both her Junior and Senior years. She was also chosen to represent the Lady Mounties at the Arkansas Activities Association All Star game after her senior season. Holly received a basketball scholarship to attend Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK where she continued her outstanding basketball career.
RHS Basketball —Mark was a standout basketball player for the Mounties. He led the team in scoring his junior and senior years. He also led the team in assists and steals his senior year, while shooting 50 percent from the field. Mark led the Mounties to a playoff spot for the first time since the 1976-77 season. Monumental victories included beating Fayetteville and the #1 ranked Corliss Williamson-led Russellville Cyclones. Mark was voted All-State his senior year and All-Conference his junior and senior Year. When he graduated from RHS, he went on to play basketball at Westark Community College and the University of Central Arkansas.
Coach Barnes was the Head Coach of the Rogers Mountie Boys Basketball team from 2004-2012. In those years, Rogers became a powerhouse team in the 7A West Conference. Under his leadership, Rogers won the conference championship in 2006, its first since 1957. His teams reached the state semifinals twice, and made it to the state championship game in 2009. He was named conference coach of the year three times and his teams won two state academic championships. In 2024, Coach Barnes was inducted into the Arkansas Activities Association Hall of Fame.
RHS Class of 1997; Nate was an outstanding basketball and baseball player for the Mounties. He was a 3-year starting pitcher and is still listed in every pitching record category kept by the Mountie baseball program 20 years after he graduated. He is second all-time in strikeouts in a season with 85, third all-time in strikeouts in a career with 146 and second all-time in career wins with 17. Nate was selected All-Conference in 1996 and All-State in 1997. Nate signed to play baseball with the Arkansas Razorbacks but was drafted in the 6th round by the Minnesota Twins. He elected to pursue his dream of becoming a professional baseball player and is still the only Mountie to be selected in the Major League Draft directly out of high school. He played in the Twins and Royals organizations for a number of years.
RHS Class of 1999; Patrick was a 3-year starter for the Mountie baseball team. He holds the school baseball records in four out of six batting categories. He is in the RHS record books for home runs in a season at 12, batting average in a season hitting 0.500 in 1998, most runs scored in a season with 48, and RBI’s in a season with 54. Patrick was selected All-Conference his junior year and All-State his senior year. He was selected the Co-MVP of the 1999 Arkansas State All-Star Tournament. Patrick continued his baseball career at Westark Community College and the University of Arkansas.
RHS Class of 1984; Todd was a three-sport letterman in football, basketball, and track for the Mounties. He earned All-Conference and All-State honors his senior year in football. He was undoubtedly the best athlete on the field for the Mounties. Todd was a varsity starter at running back, defensive back, returned kicks and punts, and was the Mountie’s kicker. His teammates talk of his leadership qualities as a Team Captain while being one of the most humble players on the team. Todd accepted a football scholarship to play at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree.
Class of 1986 Margaret was a standout athlete in cross country, basketball, and track for the Lady Mounties. In track, she was promoted to the Varsity team as 9th grader. She was twice selected as an Honorable Mention National High School Track All American as well as winning the 800m twice at the Arkansas Meet of Champions. She was the leader of a cross country team that won the state championship 3 years in a row. In basketball, Margaret was selected All Conference her Senior Year as well as the KURM Dream Team. Margaret continued her track and cross country career at Harding University where her teams won multiple AIC conference championships, and she was an individual conference champion in the 200m and 400m events.
Class of 1999 Brooke was an outstanding softball player for the Lady Mounties. She played pitcher and 3rd base during her career. Brooke holds multiple pitching records at RHS. She holds the record for strikeouts in a game at 17. Her ERA of 0.54 is still lowest in RHS history. He also held her opponent’s to a batting average of .161 which is also lowest in RHS history. Brooke pitched the first perfect game in Lady Mountie history. She was selected All State her Senior year for a team that finished State runner up. Many credit her leadership for setting the tone for the next year when the Lady Mounties won the State championship. Brooke continued her softball career at the University of Central Arkansas where she was selected All Conference in 2002 and 2003. She still ranks in the top 5 of most pitching categories at UCA including Saves, Appearances, Games Started, Complete Games, and Innings Pitched.
Class of 1968 John played quarterback and strong-side linebacker for the Mounties from 1965 through 1968. During his tenure, the Mounties broke school records for total offense. In 1966, John had a 49% completion rate while throwing for 2,000 yards. He was also the team’s leading rusher for 2 out of 3 seasons with the Mounties. The Mounties won the AA District football championship his Senior year. He was selected All-District, All-State and was named to the roster for the 1968 AHSCA All-Star game in Little Rock where he scored the first touchdown for the West team. John continued his football career at Northeastern State in Tahlequah, OK.
Football The 1936 team is represented by many friends and relatives. This football team’s accomplishments were nothing short of exceptional in their day and time. They finished with an undefeated 9-0 record winning the District and State Championships (unofficial). Their defense only surrendered 18 points for the entire season. Their coach was Homer “Doc” Ledbetter. As practice began in 1936 there were not enough cleats to outfit the entire team. Coach Ledbetter made a call to the Chicago Cardinals, who he played for in 1932 and 1933. The next week a shipment of shoes arrived from Chicago. The team played their home games on the athletic field at the corner of 2nd and Locust where the Harp’s Store and Mercy Clinic are presently located. Many players off of this team went on to play college sports at places like the University of Arkansas, University of New Mexico, Hendrix College, and the United States Military Academy. Many would become business leaders in Rogers and others joined the military where they gave the ultimate sacrifice defending our country during World War II.
RHS Class of 1991. Matthew was one of the best multisport athletes in RHS history. He was selected All-Conference and All-State in Football his Senior year; he holds the Mountie single season interception record at nine. Matthew was also All-Conference in Basketball and the Conference Champion in the 400 meters in Track his junior year for a team that won the AAAA conference championship. Matthew was the Class of 1991 Class President. When he graduated from RHS, he went on to play football and graduate from Dartmouth College.
Class of 1991; All-Conference and All-State in basketball; scored 22 points in the showdown game against #1 Russellville, while being guarded by Russellville’s star, Corliss Williamson. When he graduated, he was #2 in the Mountie record book in career free throws made, #4 in career field goals made, #4 in total points, #6 in career rebounds, and #2 in career defensive rebounds. He went on to Arkansas Tech, where he was a four year letterman, and made their all-time top 10 list in single season points, single season field goals, single season free throws, career free throws, career fields goals, and career total points. At Tech he was All-Conference, and Honorable Mention All-America.
Class of 1983; All-Conference and All-State in football; named to the Arkansas Gazette “Super Team”. Led the Mounties in rushing and scoring his senior year. In Arkansas State University, he played nose guard and led the team in tackles his senior year. He led the team in sacks and forced fumbles in both his junior and senior seasons. He was named to All-America teams by the Associated Press, the Football Coaches Association, and the Football News. He was named to the Arkansas State All Centennial Football Team and the Arkansas State University Athletics Hall of Honor. He went to Arkansas State on a football scholarship, but also participated in track. In his first track meet at ASU, he had the fifth best shot-put toss in ASU indoor track history. Today, many years after he graduated RHS, he still holds the school record in the shot-put.
Class of 1961; All-Conference and All-State in basketball; leading scorer in the conference; scored 30 points in a one-point loss to Jonesboro in the State Tournament. Played in the Arkansas High School All-Star game, and set the single game scoring record that stood for a decade. He attended the University of Arkansas on a basketball scholarship.
Class of 1989; All-Conference and All-State in both football and track; Democrat-Gazette All-Arkansas team in football; set Mountie career records in pass receptions and in receiving yardage; played in the Arkansas High School All-Star game in football; named to the KURM Football Dream Team; went to Northwestern Louisiana State on a football scholarship. He held the school record in the 400 meters many years after he graduated.
Served as head coach or assistant for multiple sports for the Rogers Public Schools for 21 years. Coached at Elmwood Junior High for 7 years, then at Rogers High School for 14 years. Coached football, basketball, track, and golf. Won two conference championships as head coach in boys’ golf; helped start the girls’ golf team under Athletic Director Charlie Cooper. As a coach, he earned a well-deserved reputation as a hard-worker and a fanatic about details. He went from coaching into administration, first as Facilities Supervisor, and then as Chief Operating Officer for the Rogers Public School System. He then became Director of the Parks & Recreation Department for the City of Rogers.
For over three decades, Kermit has been the voice of the Mounties and Lady Mounties on KURM radio. KURM was the first Rogers station to broadcast games for a wide variety of local high sports, for both boys and girls. In addition to his contributions to Mountie sports, has been a passionate supporter of academic and extra-curricular activities of all kinds. His most important contribution has been to bring Mountie sports into the homes of family of friends who could not make it to the game.
Football: All-Conference; All-State; Member 1969, 1970, and 1971 Conference Champion Teams; in 21 high school conference games as a player, was 21-0; in 18 junior high football games as a player, was 18-0. Track: junior high individual conference champion (100, 400; member 1968 and 1969 junior high conference champion teams.
After flying AC-47's for the U.S. Air Force in Vietnam, Gary located to Rogers with his young family and started the Rogers office of Hight Jackson Architects. Gary worked over 20 years in the Mountie football press box as the official spotter; worked over 20 years announcing and helping at the scorer’s table in basketball; helped develop the idea for the Arvest Hoopfest basketball tournament, and has been a presenting sponsor since its inception. His firm has been a sponsor of KURM RHS broadcasts for over 25 years; personally flew RHS football coaches on numerous scouting trips over the years; loyal booster and contributor to RHS athletics. His architecture firm designed many of the school buildings in the Rogers School District.
Football: All-Conference, All-State, Team MVP, Outstanding Lineman in the Conference, member 1967 Conference Champion Team. Track: Individual Conference Champion (pole vault), Member 1968 Conference Champion Team.
Tom scored 1090 career points; had 171 career steals (RHS all-time record); had 251 career assists (RHS all-time record); 3-time RHS MVP; 3-time All-Conference; All-State 1989.
Dickie played in every quarter in all 3 seasons for RHS; played Defensive Tackle/Place Kicker/Running Back; returned fumble 48 yards for only score against Bentonville ('60); ran 27 yards for only score against Fayetteville ('61); district undefeated champions ('60, '61); All District ('60, '61); All State ('61); All Star Game ('62); Most Valuable Player (60,61); Wigwam Wisemen All-American Team ('61); UA Scholarship; Top 5 career rushing yardage for RHS; coached Pee Wee football in Rogers.
Mindy was a member of the 1987 Cross Country State Championship Team; 1988 Benton County Basketball All-Tournament Tournament team; All Conference Basketball and Volleyball; holder of six school records in basketball. She was the leading rebounder in basketball all three seasons; Junior Year Most Hustle Basketball Award; senior year Miss Mountie in basketball, Scholastic Award in basketball, best defense in basketball, best blocker in volleyball.
Tom was RHS Head Baseball Coach for 18 years with a record of 332-178; 5 conference championships; 16 state playoff appearances; 6 state Quarter-final appearances; 2 state Semi-final appearances; 50 of his former players received college baseball scholarships; 3-time coach of the Arkansas High School All-Star Game.
Harold Calloway graduated from RHS in 1970. He was a key part of two undefeated conference championship teams as a lineman for Mountaineers in 1967 and 1969. He was a team co-captain his senior season.
Dianne Gooch served as the Lady Mountie head volleyball coach for fifteen years before retiring in 2002. She graduated from RHS in 1976, in an era when volleyball was not yet a sanctioned school sport and girls basketball was limited . Despite having few opportunities for these sports in high school, Dianne played both basketball and volleyball at Henderson State University, earning a volleyball scholarship her final two years at HSU.
Shara Sherman was an outstanding multi-sport athlete at RHS. She was a two-year All Conference and All State basketball player for the Lady Mounties in 1982 and 1983. She earned a basketball scholarship to Central Missouri State University and started as a freshman for a team that won the 1984 NCAA Division II national championship. She was also part of three Lady Mountie state champion cross country teams during her high school years and was named the best volleyball server in the AAAA West Conference her senior year.
Herman Wilkinson graduated from RHS in 1964. He was an outstanding three-year starting quarterback for the Mountaineers in 1961, '62 and '63, guiding the 1962 team to an undefeated season. He also started as linebacker on the defensive side of the ball.
Ryan made a name for himself during his senior season at RHS and was named to the All-State team in 1994. Ryan followed up his time at RHS by playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 1994-98, highlighted by being selected team captain. Ryan was drafted by New York Giants in 1999 and played in both the 1999 and 2000 seasons with the Giants. The Giants earned the title of NFC Champions in Ryan’s second year, and they went on to play in Super Bowl XXXV. Ryan returned home to Rogers after his playing days in the NFL and maintains an active role in the local community. Hale has volunteered time through speaking to student-athletes in the RPS Athletic Department over the years and is a strong advocate for youth participating in sports and being involved while in school. Ryan founded Laneshift, a consulting firm that works with cities, companies, developers, and advocacy groups, planning and designing places for people and for bikes.
Mitchell was a tackle on the Rogers High School Mountaineers District AA Championship football team of 1964. He was selected to the All-District football Team and named All-State Honorable Mention in 1964-65 for RHS. Hankins continued his association with high school sports serving as an official and a member of the Arkansas High School Officials Association from 1970-1988. A highlight during this time was officiating the 1982 Arkansas High School All-Star Football Game. Mitchell also served as a color analyst for KURM radio covering the Mounties football team from 1989-2006.
Steve made his presence known on the basketball court as well as the football field. Steve was selected to Co-Captain the Mountie basketball team his senior year in 1959-60. That followed up an outstanding year for the football Mounties as he was selected to the All-District team, All-State team, and capped by being a member of the Arkansas West All-Star Football Team.
Basketball Coach Scott Smith, known as Coach Smith to the many students whose lives he touched, was a longtime coach for the Rogers Public Schools. He coached two years at Rogers Junior High, one year at Elmwood Junior High, and 33 years at Oakdale Junior High. Smith served as basketball coach in all of those years for a total of 36 years. Smith also coached football and track and was a valuable member of the Oakdale faculty. His team’s characteristics always played hard, hustled, and represented OJHS well. Scott’s dedication to education and coaching leaves a lasting impression on the lives he touched.
Thad made a significant impact on RHS football moving in during his senior campaign in 1990-91 and taking over at quarterback. Warren continued his football career at the Kansas University where he was a member of the Jayhawk football team for four years, 1992-95. In 1994, he earned All Big 8 Academic Honor Roll. In 1995, Thad and his KU Jayhawks played in the Aloha Bowl.
Jim Billy was the tough as nails halfback for the Rogers Mountaineers in 1964 & 1965. In 1964, he helped RHS to the District AA Championship. The following year, his performance garnered him Honorable Mention to the All-American Grid Team in 1965. That same year he was selected to the All-District and All-State Football teams.
Waylon made his presence known on the football field and basketball court from 1988-91. On the gridiron, Wishon played tight end and defensive end for the Mounties. In basketball, he was a three year letterman from 1988-91, capped by an All-Conference performance in 1990-91. Waylon continued his football career at the University of Arkansas from 1991-94. After graduation, Waylon was extremely active in his hometown of Rogers coaching youth sports and volunteering for the RPS Athletic Department in various capacities.
Guy Cable graduated from Rogers High School in 1952. He was All District and All State in basketball for the Mounties.
Ted McConnaughey graduated from Rogers High School in 1958. He was a four-year letterman in football, basketball and track for the Mounties. He attended Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Arkansas where he was an All American halfback. He was also an outstanding tennis player.
Quarterback of Rogers football team during the 1976 and 1977 season. Also, quarterbacked the first Oakdale Jr. High to a NWA Conference championship in 1974. Mike passed away having battled ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) for about 3 years.
Graduated from Rogers High School in 1968 where was an outstanding athlete, who played basketball, ran track and helped the Mountaineer football team win the IAA conference championship as a tailback and a linebacker. As a school administrator, he continued his involvement with athletics by keeping football stats for the Mounties every Friday nigh for 26 years, as well as being instrumental in upgrades at Gates Stadium. David was active in the Rogers community serving as a coach in both youth baseball and youth football. He is one of the founders of the Mountaineer Hall of Fame.
Graduated from Rogers High School in 1969 and was an all-around athlete, playing football, basketball, baseball and running track as well. He was a varsity letterman all three years in football and basketball during his career as a Rogers Mountaineer. He was a member of the IAA conference championship football team in 1968. He was also a member of the 1968 Championship Track Team, competing in the 180-yard low hurdles, the 100-yard dash, the long jump, the 880-yard relay and was part of a winning 440-yard relay team.
Graduated from Rogers High School in 1937 and was captain of an undefeated football team that year. The football team only had one touchdown scored against them all season. He also played basketball for the Rogers Mountaineers. After graduation, he attended Hendrix College where he continued to participate in sports, being captain of their football team in 1940 & 1941. He returned back to Rogers and joined his father at American National Bank, the oldest bank in Rogers, later known as First National Bank and now call Arvest Bank-Rogers. Mr. Harris was a longtime civic leader, helping to bring industry to Rogers.
Graduated from Rogers High School in 1977 where he was a three-year letterman in football and basketball. He was a starting fullback his junior and senior years. He was voted by his teammates as team co-captain for homecoming all three years. He was a member of the National Honor Society for three years, junior class president, received Rotarian recognition and graduated with honors, being in the top ten of his graduating class.He went on to graduate with honors from the University of Tulsa and served our country as an officer in the United States Navy for 20 years, retiring as a Lt. Commander. He was awarded many citations for valor and outstanding performances of his duty.
All-State Basketball Player, All-State Volleyball Player and All-State Trackster at Rogers High School. She attended college at Missouri Southern where she became the first female athlete from Rogers High School to be named to an All-American Basketball team. At Missouri Southern she established the all time scoring record and held the single season scoring average - 24.2 points a game. Following graduation, she coached at Russellville High School for 10 years and was an assistant principal at Russellville High School.
An RHS All-State football gridster, Bill was a 1949 RHS graduate. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Dail went to high school in Vinita, Oklahoma. In the summer of 1948, he decided to start a new life in Rogers. He married his high school sweetheart Dorothea in 1950. Bill served two years in the Army during the Korean War, 1952-54. He worked for the USDA as an inspector for 33 years and coached Pee Wee football, basketball, and Little League baseball for approximately 10 years. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge.
Cross Country Coach Track Coach Carlton Efurd was named the head coach for the Rogers Boy’s Cross Country team in 1988. He began coaching the Lady Mounties Cross Country team in 1999. His teams have won over 20 state cross country state championships under his guidance. He has served the RPS as a counselor at Elmwood Junior High and now Rogers High School. He was a five time National Championship Track & Field Team from 1982-86. He was named to the Southwest Conference All-Conference Team in 1984, when Arkansas won its first of 38 NCAA National Titles. He has coached over numerous All-State cross country runners and helped many receive athletic scholarships. He and his wife Becky have three children who were all Mountie runners.
Waymon Lewellen coached the offensive line for the Mountie Football team from 1964-76. In his 12 seasons, the Mounties were 82-33-5, won five district championships, went to three state playoffs, and enjoyed two undefeated seasons. His team won the district track meet at Harrison in 1968. Coach Lewellen has been referred to as the “glue that held the team together”; he was a loyal assistant coach and was definitely held in high esteem by his players. Lewellen left Rogers to work in Springfield, Missouri for Balfour Company, which sells championship and class rings, graduation announcements, and regalia. Waymon was a friend to every Mountie young or old, teacher, coach, administrator, or parent.
Swearingen was an All-Conference quarterback on the 1964 Rogers football team that went undefeated 10-0. A true Rogers product, David is a former Eagle Scout whose exemplary character traits continue to be exhibited as a husband, father, and citizen of Rogers. His service to the community has involved the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, NWACC, Mercy Hospital Board, and First United Methodist Church. David enjoyed a long career as an architect for Crafton Tull and was the lead architect for the current Rogers High School building. He and his wife Marilyn, have three children and several grandchildren.
Class of 1985 Graduated from Rogers in 1985 and is an exemplary citizen of Rogers. He was one of the most talented Mounties on the basketball court between 1983-85, helping to lead his team to three consecutive winning seasons. He was named to the All-Conference, All-State team during 1985. He broke 13 Mountie records while at RHS; he averaged 15 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. He was named a high school All-American by Street and Smith basketball magazine. Keven left high school to play for Drury College, graduating from Drury in 1989 with a degree in business administration. Keven went on to serve in the Arkansas House of Representatives.
Coach Cooper is a founding committee member of the "Mountaineer Hall of Fame" and former coach and athletic director at Rogers High School. In 1964-68 he was head football coach at Jay, OK; 1968-73 football coach and athletic director at Joplin, Mo.;1974-75 head football coach and curriculum coordinator at Coffeyville, KS Jr. College. 1975-76 athletic director and head football coach at Jay, OK; 1976-80 athletic director, assistant principal and head football coach at Grove, OK; 1980-93 athletic director and head football coach at Tahlequah City Schools, Tahlequah, OK; 1993-2001 athletic director and head football coach for Rogers School District.
Class of 1975 Graduated from Rogers in 1975. He was a reflection of a true “Mountie.” He came through the junior high program, where he excelled as a team leader because of his work ethics, his talents, his desire to achieve, and by constantly improving on those goals he set for himself at each level. Injuries became a challenge at one point, but he overcame a broken collarbone and came back to be the starting quarterback his junior and senior year. He had a great passing arm and connected on key plays enabling the Mounties to march down the field to score winning touchdowns. He earned several honors for his play. Among those were All-Conference, All-State, and All-Star, as well as a college scholarship for his talents. He lettered on the football team from 1971-74; was a member of the R-Club (Lettermen Club) 1972-74; Homecoming Escort 1972-74; FCA 1972-74. In addition to excelling in football, Kim represented the Mounties track team.
Class of 1971 Graduated from Rogers in 1971 and left to play football at Northeastern Oklahoma (NEO) Jr. College and then attended Southeast Missouri State. He was All Conference and All State lineman, helping to lead the Mounties to the state playoffs. RHS athlete 1965-1971; District 1-AA Champion; All Star game 1971; 1971-73 Northeastern Oklahoma; he played in the Juco Bowl; All-American 1973-74 at Southeast Missouri State; 1976-77 coached at Harrison High School; Region 1-AA championship at Harrison; 1978-80 offensive line coach at Rogers High School; during that time the Mounties won a conference championship and went undefeated. After a successful career at Rogers, he left the Rogers school system to work for Wal-Mart.
Basketball Coach Distinguished Service For 29 years, the late Nelma Williams served Rogers High School with boundless energy. She inspired, encouraged, challenged, and nurtured many who were privileged to be in her classes, on her athletic teams, and spirit groups over the years. Her dedication, character, and initiative brought both state and national recognition and honor to Rogers High School. She was a lady who was an example to us all and she remains the true spirit of RHS. Nelma Faye Koon Williams was a native of the state of Arkansas; born on March 13, 1930 in Cleveland, Arkansas. 1950-51 Girls basketball coach, physical education teacher, Lavaca High School, Lavaca, AR. 1951-53 Girls basketball coach, P.E. teacher Rogers Junior and Senior High schools, Rogers, AR. 1953-65 Girls P.E. teacher, sponsor, pep clubs and cheerleaders Rogers Junior and Senior high schools, Rogers, AR. 1965-76 Chairman of the girls physical education, cheerleader advisor, Rogers Public Schools, Rogers, AR. 1976-80 Dean of Girls, Rogers High School, Rogers, AR.
Quarterback 1978, 1979, 1980; AAAA West undefeated Conference Champions 1978; AAAA West All-State and All-Conference 1980. Named Mike Campbell Assistant Coach of the Year by the All-American Football Foundation June 13, 2003. Assistant Football coach at: SMS University; Delta State University; Texas, El Paso University; and UNLV. Offensive Coordinator: Georgia State, Georgia Tech, Northern Illinois, Tennessee Martin, Illinois State University and U.S. Military Academy.
1937 RHS graduate. Jack played on a Rogers semi-pro baseball team in the 1940's. He later coached Little League baseball for 15 years. He then managed the American Legion baseball team in Rogers for 15 years in the 1970's and 80's during a time when there was no high school baseball at RHS. He was the Area 1 American Legion Coach of the Year and a great supporter of all Mountaineer athletics.
Class of 1971. Quarterback 1968-70, All 1-AA Conference Football 1969, 1-AA Conference Football Champions 1969, 1-AA Undefeated Conference Football Champions 1970, 1-AA All Conference Football 1970, All State Football 1970, Arkansas High School All-Star Game 1971, Quarterback – Northeastern Oklahoma A & M 1971-72.
David Smith was named All Conference and All State as a Mountie football player in 1974 and was also voted to the Associated Press Super Team. He was named the Outstanding Lineman in the AAA West Conference in 1974. He played in the 1975 Arkansas All Star football game. He later was an assistant football and track coach at RHS for 12 years.
Jimmy Casto was born in Tokyo and moved to Rogers in 1954. He graduated from Rogers High School in 1972 and left to play for Tulsa University as a wide receiver. Thirty years ago he electrified Rogers High School athletes. He played everything they offered back then – football, basketball, and track. In the summer he played American Legion baseball. He was a perennial all-everything. He was a Who’s Who of Rogers sports glory years. Jimmy loved playing horseshoes. It was said he could hit a softball over any fence on any pitch; that flag football was played for keeps and that he loved to fish and be on the water. Jimmy Casto, 48 of Rogers died May 16, 2002 after a long illness. His life’s motto might read, “Forget your lust for the rich man’s gold, all that you need is in your soul, and be a simple kind of man.”
Barney Hayes graduated from Rogers High School in 1970. He was head football coach at Oakdale from 1975 – 1977 with 23 wins, 6 losses, and 4 ties (70% win percentage). They were NWA Conference Football Runner-Up in 1976. Barney was voted Oakdale “Teacher of the Year” in 1977. He was RHS head track coach from 1978-1991, AAAA West Conference Track Champions 1989, AAAA West Track Coach of the Year in 1989. He then served as Director of Buildings and Transportation for the Rogers School Systems. During this time he planned and supervised the construction of many new school buildings in the district. Rogers school district was fortunate to have a man of Barney’s caliber serving for so long. He later became the Director of Parks for the City of Rogers and was elected to the Rogers City Council for many years.
Dr. Jerry Lee Hitt graduated from the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences in Little Rock in 1970, and then completed his internship at John Peter Smith Hospital in Ft. Worth, Texas. Known to all as “Doc,” “Dr. J, “ or simply “Dr. Hitt,” he faithfully served many families in the Rogers community for 31 years. Dr. Hitt was a loving husband, father, a servant of First Baptist Church, a caring physician, a terrific friend and a loyal Rogers Mountie. Dr. Hitt passed away June 14, 2002. He was 56 years old. He is survived by his wife Rita and three daughters Brian, Andee, and Emily. Dr. Hitt will be remembered for his compassionate spirit and treating his patients as family. He attended Rogers Mountaineer football and basketball games supporting our teams while serving as the team doctor for many years. He was one of the great “behind the scenes” leaders that made an impact on many lives. Dr. Hitt made our community a better place to raise families.
Tim Smith graduated from Rogers High School in 1979 and was regarded as an all around athlete. Tim excelled in football, basketball, track and played American Legion baseball. He finished in the top 10 at the State Decathlon in 1978 and 1979. He held the long jump record in track from 1978 until 1989. He was a member of the Rogers Booster Club and Rogers Quarterback Club. He also served on the Rogers Bambino Baseball Board. Tim is co-owner and Vice President of Ozark Fence Co. in Rogers. He and his wife Kelley are the parents of three children, Jaclyn, Garret, and Joshua.
Jerry “Sonny” Ferguson participated in Rogers High School sports playing football and basketball. He was elected to football All District and All State teams in 1952 and 1953. He was named to the 1953 All Southern Team and the Wigwam High School All American Team. In 1954 Jerry was recruited by Bowden Wyatt, head coach of U of A, and played as a Razorback running back for three years for Jack Mitchell. After graduation he was an assistant coach at Pine Bluff Jr. High and later moved up to Pine Bluff High School in 1965. In 1966 Jerry became defensive coordinator and head track coach for the Mavericks. Jerry was head coach of the Mavs in 1967 and 1968. He later became the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at the Texarkana, Arkansas School District.
Dr. W.E. “Bill” King began working in the Rogers School District in 1974 as Assistant Principal and became Principal in 1977 at Rogers High School. Later he became the Vice Principal at Kirksey Middle School. Dr. King passed away May 3, 2000. He was 59 years old. Dr. King was a very kind and understanding man. He had a great way of working with young people and was a great educator. The level and variety of courses increased greatly under his leadership. He received many honors. He was selected Arkansas Administrator of the Year by the Arkansas Administrator’s Assn. The Arkansas Scholastic Press Assn. also selected him as Administrator of the Year. Dr. King devoted 33 years of his life to the Rogers School District.
Steve Roberts attended Rogers High School and participated in many sports. He played basketball, football, and ran track. He received a basketball scholarship from Henry Iba at OSU, where he played football also. In high school, Steve led all the scorers and was named MVP of the State Tournament in 1957, when Rogers won its only State Basketball Championship. He was named to the All-State team in both his junior and senior years. He was the owner of the oldest real estate office in Northwest Arkansas and served on the Rogers Board of Realtors Board of Directors. Steve was a lifetime member of the “Million Dollar Club” and was named Realtor of the Year. He was instrumental in the development of environmentally friendly residential areas in Rogers.
Fred Summers graduated in 1961 after playing football at Rogers for four years. He played fullback and received two years of All District, Honorable Mention, and he was a four-year letterman. Fred received a scholarship to go to the College of the Ozarks in Clarksville, AR. After attending Clarksville, Fred and his family moved to Oklahoma where he attended Oklahoma City University and Oklahoma State University. Fred was a member of the Putnam City Optimist Club and served four years as football coach and coordinator. He also coached youth baseball and was instrumental in the development of the Putnam City Optimist softball complex. Fred was employed at AT&T/Lucent Technologies for many years, where his title was Electronics Specialist and trained engineers.
Dale Bland Graduated from Rogers High School in 1947. He played basketball, was the quarterback of the football team, and also ran track. He was a booster club officer member for more than forty years. While active in the Rogers Lions' Club, Bland was a Little League umpire crew chief for seventeen years. He served under three coaches. Howard Sutton, Frank Tillery and Gary Bond as the offensive statistician of the Rogers football team for thirty years. In one word, Dale is and has been very "loyal" to the Mounties and to Rogers High School. Dale later worked for the Rogers Public Schools as mail courier. Dale's wife Anne was a long-time teacher with the Rogers School System having taught at Rogers High School, Elmwood Junior High and Kirksey Middle School.
Howard Sutton was born in Huntsville but moved to Springdale during his senior high school years. During his senior year, he was named All-Star in basketball and as quarterback earned All-Star honors. He attended the University of Arkansas until he joined the United States Marine Corps. After serving in the Marines he returned to the University of Arkansas and received his Bachelor's Degree. Sutton then became the assistant football coach and head coach of the basketball team at Rogers in 1955. In his first year as coach of the basketball team, Rogers went all the way to the State Semi Finals. The next year he became the head football coach and also managed to get his Master's Degree. In 1958 Frank Tillery joined him to coach football. At semester, Mr. Greer Lingle appointed him to be the principal of RHS. His wife Betty Sutton was choral director and sponsored the Rocking Sounds at RHS.
Frank Tillery graduated from Siloam Springs High School in 1955. He went to Northeastern State and was a two-time All Oklahoma Collegiate Athletic Conference tackle, playing both ways. He was co-captain of the Redmen squad in 1954. He lettered in boxing during his freshman year. He was the coach of the Rogers High School Mounties football team and he also coached in Sand Springs and Muskogee. Tillery coached for 16 years. He coached the 1962 state champion Mounties as well as the 1966 Sand Springs state champions. He was named Coach of the Year for those championships. Tillery was in the army from 1956-1958. He earned a MA Degree at the U of A in 1968 and received advanced certification in 1983. He was the principal at Elmwood Junior High from 1974-1983 and the Superintendent of Rogers Public Schools from 1983-1993. His wife Paula taught English at Oakdale Junior High School.
Blackie Bond was regarded as one of the most successful high school football coaches in the state of Arkansas. He was a four year letterman at the College of the Ozarks. He was named Conference Coach of the Year six times and All-Star Coach three times. He was named the Arkansas Outstanding Football Coach in 1978 and in 1979 was named Head Coach West All-Stars. Bond assumed the full time Athletic Director position at Rogers High School in 1988 and retired in 1993 with thirty-four years of service. Bond and his wife Sara had two children John and Lynn. John was also inducted into the Mountaineer Hall of Fame.
Larry Melson graduated from Siloam Springs High School in 1967 and from John Brown University in 1972. He taught in Rogers Public Schools from 1972-1984 where he coached football, basketball, and track at the junior and senior high levels. Melson was regarded by most as what "Go Big Blue" truly stands for. Melson had a genuine feeling of care an concern for every player he coached. He was able to make every player feel special no matter what their abilities. Melson was a major force in the RHS FCA program. After leaving coaching, he served as a member of the Rogers School Board and remained actively involved in the school system. The late Larry Melson and his wife Joy Noblin had two sons, Matt and Nate Melson. Nate was also inducted into the Mountaineer Hall of Fame, and Matt is the current Mountie baseball coach.
Ben Rowell graduated from Morrilton High School where he played football and basketball. He graduated from Southern Baptist College in 1952 and attended Kansas City University and Central Seminary in Kansas City, KS. He pastored nine churches since beginning ministry in 1951, including the First Baptist Church of Rogers beginning in 1975. After arriving in Rogers, Rowell soon became the public address announcer at Mountie football games Rowell was the "Voice of Mountie Football" for 21 years and basketball for 18 years. It was a rare occasion when Brother Rowell missed a home game. Brother Rowell is considered one of the most respected citizens in the Rogers Community. Ben Rowell and his wife "Miss June" have one daughter, Karen Maloney.
Whitey Smith graduated from Rogers High School in 1956 and is regarded as one of the best athletes that has ever been through Rogers High School. He was "Most Valuable Player" of the 1955 RHS football team and the first athlete to represent RHS in the Arkansas High School All-State game. Smith was a booster club officer/member for more than thirty years and raised thousands of dollars to assist the boys and girls athletic teams and spirit teams of Rogers High School. He has been a faithful fan to Rogers athletics by keeping score for athletic teams as far back as 1957. Smith and his wife Janice have two children, Tim and Becky.
