Duane Wales Inducted into Allen Community College Hall of Fame

Allen Community College (ACC) will honor one of its greatest baseball players, Duane Wales, during the Athletics Hall of Fame induction event taking place from February 13 to 14, 2026. This celebration will recognize Wales’s remarkable achievements as a hitter in the college’s baseball program.

Originally hailing from Portsmouth, Ohio, Wales joined the Red Devil baseball team in the fall of 1981. Although he was initially recruited as a pitcher, it was his impressive batting that solidified his legacy at ACC.

In his freshman year of 1982, Wales made an immediate impact, breaking multiple school records. He recorded 88 hits, 17 home runs, 86 RBIs, and achieved a batting average of .379. His stellar performance continued into his sophomore year, where he broke his own records with 92 hits, 25 home runs, and 88 RBIs. His exceptional skills earned him a spot on the Region VI All-Star team as a designated hitter.

Wales’s crowning achievement came during the 1983 NJCAA World Series held in Grand Junction, Colorado. He led all hitters with an astounding .632 batting average, going 12-for-19 at the plate, which included 2 home runs and 8 RBIs. For his outstanding performance, he received the prestigious “Big Stick” award and was named to the Junior College World Series All-Tournament Team.

After his successful tenure at Allen Community College, Wales continued to play baseball at the University of Texas-Pan American and Fort Hays State University, demonstrating the same dedication and skill that defined his career at ACC.

Wales’s records and accomplishments remain among the most celebrated in the history of Allen Community College baseball. His legacy as one of the program’s all-time great hitters continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

The community is invited to join the college in honoring Wales’s induction into the Allen Community College Athletics Hall of Fame. Alongside Wales, five other individuals will also be inducted into the 2026 Hall of Fame class: Bob Saueressig (Cross Country & Track, 1967–68), Kenny Norris (Track & Field, 1973–74), Apple Jones (Women’s Basketball, 1990–92), the 1996 Golf Team, and Judith Bragg (Volleyball Coach, 1973–82).

This event promises to be a significant occasion for the college and its athletic community, celebrating the rich history and achievements of its former athletes.