Howard Payne University Football

Howard Payne University, located in Brownwood, Texas, has a rich athletic tradition, and its football program is an integral part of the university's sports landscape. The Howard Payne Yellow Jackets football team competes in the American Southwest Conference (ASC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and athletic achievement, the university's football program has produced numerous notable players, coaches, and teams throughout its history.

History of Howard Payne University Football

The Howard Payne University football program was established in 1903, and since then, it has experienced its fair share of successes and challenges. The team has won several conference championships, including the ASC title in 2002, 2004, and 2006. The Yellow Jackets have also appeared in several postseason games, including the NCAA Division III playoffs. The program has been led by several notable coaches, including legendary coach Dean Smith, who guided the team to a 63-36-2 record from 1946 to 1955.

Notable Players and Coaches

Several notable players have donned the Yellow Jackets’ uniform, including NFL players like Jim Ray Smith, who played for the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys, and Timmy Smith, who played for the Washington Redskins. The program has also produced several all-conference and all-American players, including quarterback Justin Feaster, who was named the ASC Player of the Year in 2006. The team has been led by several experienced coaches, including current head coach Hunter Sims, who has been at the helm since 2018.

Facilities and Equipment

The Howard Payne University football team plays its home games at Gordon Wood Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that seats over 3,000 spectators. The stadium features a turf field, a press box, and a concession stand, providing an excellent game-day experience for fans. The team also has access to a weight room, a training room, and a film room, which are all equipped with the latest technology and equipment.

Recruitment and Scholarships

The Howard Payne University football program offers several scholarships to its players, including full-ride scholarships, partial scholarships, and academic scholarships. The coaching staff actively recruits talented high school players from across the country, with a focus on Texas and the surrounding regions. The program also offers several summer camps and clinics, which provide young players with an opportunity to develop their skills and learn from experienced coaches.

The Howard Payne University football team has a strong social media presence, with several thousand followers on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The team's social media accounts provide fans with updates on game schedules, scores, and news, as well as behind-the-scenes insights into the team's practices, games, and community events. The team's social media presence has helped to increase its visibility and engagement with fans, alumni, and prospective students.