Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame graphic featuring the Dalton cat logo in red, white and black on a textured red background. Text reads, “iNTRODUCING the 2026 Inductees.”

Dalton High School Announces 2026–27 Athletics Hall of Fame Class

Kendra Pannell

September 1, 2026

DALTON, Ga. — Dalton High School is proud to announce the 2026–27 class of the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing eight individuals whose accomplishments, leadership, service and lasting contributions have helped shape the proud tradition of Catamount athletics.

The 2026–27 Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame Class includes:

  • Gary Bramblett

    — Football, Class of 1978

  • Taylor Dale

    — Swimming and Diving, Class of 2013

  • Whitney Deal

    — Girls Basketball, Class of 2002

  • Joey Westmoreland

    — Boys Basketball, Class of 1998

  • Carly Smith

    — Cross Country and Track, Class of 2001

  • Eder Mora

    — Soccer and Football, Class of 2015

  • Manny Pontonio

    — Baseball and Coach

  • Lamar Hennon

    — Community Contributor

Established in 2024, the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame represents the highest honor bestowed by the Dalton High School Athletic Department. The Hall of Fame celebrates individuals and teams whose achievements, leadership, sportsmanship and lasting contributions have made a significant impact on Dalton athletics and continue to inspire future generations of Catamounts.

“This class represents so much of what makes Dalton athletics special,” said Ryan Richards, Dalton Public Schools Athletic Director. “These individuals have contributed to the Catamount legacy in different sports, different eras and different roles, but they share a commitment to excellence and to Dalton High School. We are incredibly proud to recognize them and make their stories a permanent part of our athletics history.”

The Hall of Fame Committee evaluates nominees based on athletic accomplishments, honors and awards, leadership, records, community involvement, sportsmanship, citizenship and overall contributions to Dalton High School athletics.

This year’s class reflects the breadth of Dalton High School’s athletic tradition, with inductees representing football, swimming and diving, basketball, cross country, track, soccer and baseball, as well as coaching and service to the Dalton athletics community.

The 2026–27 inductees will be formally honored during the annual Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The celebration will continue the following evening with special recognition during Dalton High School’s home football game on Friday, October 23, 2026, providing the Dalton community another opportunity to celebrate this year’s class.

Since its inception, the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame has honored outstanding athletes, coaches, teams and community contributors whose dedication and excellence have become part of the Catamount legacy. The Hall of Fame serves as a permanent tribute to those who have elevated Dalton High School athletics while preserving their accomplishments and stories for future generations.

For more information about the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame, contact Ryan Richards, Dalton Public Schools Athletic Director, at ryan.richards@dalton.k12.ga.us.

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