Staff Reports
PHOENIX – Don Conrad, a legendary figure in Arizona high school athletics, will be inducted into the Arizona High School Athletic Coaches Hall of Fame on April 26. The formal induction banquet will take place at Arrowhead Country Club in Phoenix, where Conrad will be honored alongside other deserving coaches selected by their peers on the Hall of Fame Executive Board.
This prestigious recognition celebrates Conrad’s extraordinary dedication to prep sports, particularly in football and golf, spanning decades of service as an educator, coach, and administrator. To qualify for induction, coaches must have at least 20 years of experience in the same sport, at least 10 years as head coach, and must also demonstrate significant contributions to colleagues, student-athletes, and the community through exemplary leadership and personal conduct. Conrad exceeds these standards, having devoted his career to building winning programs and positively influencing young lives.
Conrad’s coaching journey began after a standout playing career as a linebacker at Southern Utah State College (now Southern Utah University). He started his head-coaching tenure at Cyprus High School in the Salt Lake City area, then served as defensive coordinator at Southern Utah and later as head coach there. He continued his ascent as head football coach at Eastern Arizona College.
In 1995, Conrad arrived at Thatcher High School in Graham County, initially as head baseball coach while assisting with football. He was promoted to head football coach in 2000, and his impact was immediate and profound. Under his leadership, the Thatcher Eagles captured back-to-back state championships in 2000 and 2001, followed by another title in 2006. His teams also secured seven regional titles, establishing Thatcher as one of the most successful small-school football programs in Arizona.
Conrad’s baseball squads complemented that success, achieving state runner-up finishes in 2000 and 2001. Beyond football and baseball, he coached the golf team at Thatcher High School, further showcasing his versatility.
His accolades include being named Arizona Football Coaches Association (AzFCA) Coach of the Year in 2001 and Arizona Republic Small School Football Coach of the Year in 2006. He earned region coach of the year honors in 2000, 2001, and 2006. Conrad also served as dean of students and athletic director at Thatcher from 2012 to 2018, guiding the entire athletic program with the same commitment to excellence.
Conrad concluded his remarkable 48-year career in education in 2021, leaving an enduring legacy of success, mentorship, and integrity. His innovative approaches, such as veer-option schemes in football, helped elevate Thatcher to new heights and inspired generations of student-athletes.
The Graham County community and Arizona prep sports fans are invited to celebrate this well-deserved honor. Conrad’s induction not only recognizes his on-field achievements but also his lifelong role as a model educator and leader who gave back tirelessly to his players, colleagues, and the sport he loved. Congratulations to Coach Don Conrad on this prestigious milestone!
