In 2010, the Lufkin Pro Day Group was formed to recognize and honor graduates of Angelina County schools who have enjoyed a successful career with an emphasis on those who have played professional sports.  

By honoring those from our community we provide current and future generations with examples of outstanding achievement through an individual’s commitment , passion, perseverance and work ethic to their career and an appreciation for our community’s’ role in their success.

The group honors a new class of individuals every year during their Pro Day Banquet.  That event is being held on Thursday, September 29th at 6:30 p.m. at the Lufkin Convention Center.  This year, 3 Lufkin High School alums will be recognized:  Pete Runnels, Jorvorskie Lane, and Trey Hearne.

Pete Runnels graduated from Lufkin High School in 1945.  He would end up playing 14 years of Major League Baseball divided between the Washington Senators, Boston Red Sox, and the Houston Colt 45s.  In his career, Runnels won 2 American League batting titles and he led that league twice in fielding percentage.  He passed away in 1991.  A yearly baseball tournament hosted by Lufkin varsity baseball is named after Runnels.

Jorvorskie Lane was commonly referred to as the Lane Train for his powerful running style which he displayed throughout his career with Lufkin (class of 2005), Texas A&M, as well as the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League.  Lane holds the Aggie record for the most rushing career touchdowns at 49.

Trey Hearne is a 2001 graduate from Lufkin High School.  He played college ball at Texas A&M Corpus Christi and was drafted in 2005 by the St. Louis Cardinals.  He pitched for several seasons in the Cardinal's A, AA, AAA minor league teams.

Tickets for the banquet are $30.  Dinner and silent auction are included in the ticket price.

 

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