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About The Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame

In the United States, there are Sports Halls of Fame that honor professional and amateur athletes in football, basketball, track, tennis, baseball and other sports. There are also ethnic halls of fame that recognize outstanding athletes from different groups including Italian, Jewish, Irish and blacks to name a few. But, there was not a single sports hall of fame that would recognize, honor and salute the outstanding accomplishments/achievements and contributions of our Latino/Hispanic Sports Heritage not only from the United States but also those who came to this country from Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Central and South America and from the vast talent from the Caribbean Islands. The Latin-American International Sports Hall of Fame/Salon de Ia Fama Latinoamericano del Deporte was organized in Laredo, Texas in 1974. At first it was to celebrate, honor and promote local and regional individuals who had excelled at their particular sport but soon it opened the doors to include National and International Professional Athletes. It also recognizes as Sportsman of the Year individuals who continue to preserve and enhance our Latino culture, values and educational opportunities for our youth and who contribute to the betterment of the City of Laredo and South Texas. There have been since its inception an equal recognition of women athletes inductees. It was important to find role models for our youth and the organizers wanted to include all ages, regardless of sex in their programs. The Latin Hall was also created to promote economic development and stimulate business activity in downtown Laredo when local businesses are contracted to provide services to our inductees, their families and guests who visit Laredo during the annual 3-day welcome reception, media luncheon and induction banquet celebration weekend. Through the years. (1975-2014), and with limited amount of funds the organization has, had the opportunity to help the youth of our community with scholarships and other youth activity fundraisers. Plans are to have a Latin Sports International Hall of Fame Museum (downtown) (soon) which will be a first for the United States and to provide clinics (free of charge) to instruct our youth in different sports.

Mission

The Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame was founded in 1975 to recognize individuals with good and proper standing in the community, high morals and values and who have excelled in sports and/or have contributed to the promotion of sports and goodwill in the Latino community.


Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame

47th Annual Induction Banquet

 JohnLermaWeb

 

Mary T. Encinas
Collegiate Basketball

Mary Encinas’ journey in athletics and education reflects a lifelong commitment to discipline, leadership, and excellence. A graduate of Nixon High School in 2006, she played under Coach Arleen Averill and helped lead her team to an extraordinary 33–3 overall record, including an undefeated 14–0 district season—achieved during an era when all Laredo schools competed in the same district. The team advanced to the regional quarterfinals, and one of Mary’s most memorable moments was helping secure Coach Averill’s first playoff victory while she was a sophomore by delivering at the free-throw line.

During her high school career, Mary earned numerous accolades, including Defensive Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, District Most Valuable Player, and All-City Most Valuable Player.

In recognition of her impact, her jersey—number 32—was retired and now hangs in the rafters of Barton Gymnasium alongside the team’s championship banner, symbolizing both achievement and the dedication behind it.

She continued her basketball career at Texas A&M International University, where she was a three-year starter and earned both Honorable Mention and First Team All-Conference honors in the Heartland Conference. During the 2008–2009 season, she led her team with a 14.8 points-per-game average and topped the conference with 2.7 three-pointers made per game. By 2021, she ranked among the university’s Top 10 in six career statistical categories, including games played, points, field goals made, three-point field goals made, free throws made, and assists.

Mary also tied the school record for most three-pointers made in a single game with seven, achieved against Texas Woman’s University on December 31, 2009.

From 2015 to 2024, Mary served as the Head Girls Basketball Coach for the Cigarroa Lady Toros, leading the program to sustained success. Under her leadership, the team achieved eight playoff appearances, secured three district championships, won four bi-district championships, captured three area championships, and advanced to the regional quarterfinals three times.

In 2023, Mary earned her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Educational Leadership from Texas A&M International University. The following year, she stepped into an administrative role as an Assistant Athletic Director, continuing to channel her passion for athletics into shaping programs and mentoring the next generation of student-athletes.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary shares her life with her college sweetheart and husband, Angel Encinas. The couple married in 2015 and are proud parents of two children, AJ and Aleia, who remain at the center of her life and inspiration.