IOLA, Kan. (Feb. 9, 2026) — Allen Community College welcomes Judith Bragg into the Athletics Hall of Fame during a two‑day event Feb. 13–14.
Judith Ross Bragg was a 1941 graduate of Iola Junior College (now Allen Community College). She began working at Allen while teaching second grade full-time for the Iola school district. She taught early morning (7 a.m.) and evening (7 p.m.) physical education classes, then known as gym classes, at the junior college.
After earning her master’s degree in 1964, Bragg started her full-time role at Allen as an instructor. She taught children’s literature, social and behavior sciences, and health and physical education. Her responsibilities also included overseeing the cheerleaders and pom pom squads.
In 1972, Allen added volleyball to its athletic programs, and Bragg took on the coaching duties until her retirement in the spring of 1983. She coached volleyball for ten seasons, but her influence extended to the entire Red Devil athletic program over her 29 years at the college.
Bragg served as the first athletic tutor—unofficially—always finding time to help struggling students with their studies. She focused especially on helping them develop strong study skills to support their continued education.
She drove cross-country and track athletes to meets in her own vehicle, hosted backyard barbecues, early-morning breakfasts before long road trips, and Thanksgiving dinners at her home. Apples, oranges, and cookies frequently appeared in baseball dugouts, and she was a regular in the stands, proudly wearing her Allen sweatshirt and pleated skirt.
When she retired, Bragg said, “It’s been a labor of love for me.” That was an understatement. With her unique gifts and warm personality, she touched countless lives as Allen’s #1 fan. Every student and athlete she interacted with felt her genuine care and dedication, making a lasting difference in their college experience and beyond.
In addition to Judith Bragg, Allen will induct five others into the 2026 Hall of Fame class:
- Bob Saueressig, Cross Country & Track (1967–68)
- Duane Wales, Baseball (1982–83)
- Apple Jones, Women’s Basketball (1990–92)
- 1996 Golf Team
- Kenny Norris, Track & Field (1973–74)
Allen Community College continues to honor former student‑athletes, coaches and teams whose achievements helped shape the history of Red Devil athletics.
