The Carthage High School Gym was filled with pride, energy, and tradition on Tuesday night as the community came together to celebrate the Legacy of Girls’ Basketball at Carthage High School. The evening honored the program’s deep roots, its accomplished alumni, and the remarkable women who have guided generations of Lady Dawgs on and off the court.
Honoring a Trailblazer: Miss Sandra Walker
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Miss Sandra Walker, the longtime Lady Bulldog coach who led Carthage Girls’ Basketball from 1960 to 1978. Under her leadership, Carthage earned a reputation as one of the premier programs in Texas, reaching the UIL State Tournament in 1968, 1969, 1971, and 1978.
Miss Walker shared a message that reflected her lifelong belief in perseverance and excellence, saying, “So many of life’s lessons, I learned on a basketball court. Always give your best — in your sport, on the job, or in life. Always want your best to be better.”
Many of her former players, seated proudly in the stands, were recognized at center court for their contributions to Carthage’s legacy of excellence.
A Homecoming for Coach Kit Kyle
Also recognized was Coach Kit Kyle, the newest head coach of the Lady Dawgs and a 1988 Carthage High School graduate. Coach Kyle played basketball for CHS before embarking on a distinguished coaching career that includes more than 780 career wins, five trips to the UIL State Tournament, and prestigious honors such as National High School Coach of the Year and the Pat Summitt Award from the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association.
Her return to Carthage marks both a homecoming and a new chapter in Lady Dawg Basketball. During the event, Coach Kyle spoke about the pride she feels for her players and the importance of carrying forward the program’s legacy. She also emphasized to her team how proud the alumni are of their heart, effort, and determination — and how excited they are to see the future of Lady Dawg Basketball unfold.
Tradition Meets the Future
Following the Lady Dawgs’ hard-fought game against Marshall, alumni gathered for a special reception to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the program’s continued growth. While the scoreboard didn’t favor Carthage that night, the event reflected a much bigger victory — one of unity, pride, and tradition.
As the Lady Dawgs look ahead to a promising season, the spirit of those who came before them continues to light the way. The legacy of Carthage Girls’ Basketball remains strong — built on effort, excellence, and the belief that the best is always yet to come.