Ernesto V. Vela — Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame

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Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame

2000 Vela, Ernesto 4x6.jpg — Ernesto V. Vela†

Inducted 2000
Hometown: Rio Grande City
College: Sam Houston State University
Best Known for: Athlete-Football
One of the finest athletes ever to come out of Starr County, Vela enjoyed a great career in football and high school administration.
He made history as the first All-District football player from Rio Grande City High, back in 1953, and also the first Rattler to receive a college scholarship, after winning nine total letters in baseball, football and basketball during an excellent prep career.
At Sam Houston State University, he lettered three times as a two-way starter, helping the undefeated Bearkats to the 1956 Lone Star Conference title.
In later years, Vela became a trusted administrator back home, as the leader of the migrant program at RGC and also PE and elementary coordinator. He directed plant maintenance and oversaw overall operations for the district, finishing with successful stints as assistant principal at the high school level, and as the Rattlers' athletic director for three years.

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