Since 2023, the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Sports Hall of Fame Committee has honored an individual who exemplifies excellence and service to the university. The distinction, named in honor of Hall of Fame founder Hansel E. Tookes, Sr., recognizes those who have made a lasting impact on FAMU and beyond.
This year, the committee proudly announces two distinguished recipients: international long drive golf champion Maurice Allen and Atlanta Falcons Cheer Director Dr. Chato Hendrix. Both will be celebrated during the 50th Anniversary of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame on Sept. 18, 2026.
A former FAMU track standout, Maurice Allen has built a groundbreaking career in professional long drive competition. He is a two-time World Champion, three-time World No. 1, and two-time European Tour Champion. Allen spent an incredible 125 consecutive weeks ranked No. 1 in Europe, while also capturing a USA Tour Championship. His career includes 43 titles and 105 top-10 finishes, making him the first Black American to achieve these milestones. In a feat unmatched globally, Allen is also the only person to drive a golf ball across Niagara Falls—from the United States into Canada.
Dr. Chato Hendrix, a Jacksonville, Florida native, is a proud FAMU alumna who earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology in just three years. During her time at FAMU, she was a member of the cheerleading squad. She later became a member of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders, where she spent six seasons, including two as line captain, while also serving as a junior cheerleader coordinator. With a cheerleading career spanning more than 26 years, Hendrix has spent the past two decades as Director of Cheerleading for the Atlanta Falcons. Under her leadership, the program has expanded its community impact both locally and internationally, while creating opportunities for team members to grow and shine. In 2026, she will also be inducted into the National Football Cheerleaders Alumni Organization Hall of Fame.
The FAMU 50th Anniversary Sports Hall of Fame Weekend will take place September 18–19, 2026. The enshrinement ceremony is scheduled for Friday, September 18, at 7:00 p.m. in the Al Lawson Center. Honorees will also be recognized during the FAMU vs. Tennessee State football game on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 6:00 p.m.
For more information on the class of 2026 or the ceremony, please email: famushof76@gmail.com. Or contact FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Director of Media, Vaughn Wilson, at (850) 408-9686
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FAMU Sports Hall of Fame announces trailblazers for 2026 ceremony
Reporting by Vaughn Wilson/FAMU Sports Hall of Fame, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
