Douglas Conaway

Douglas Conaway was born in Brandon, Texas. While attending Hillsboro High School he was involved in a variety of activities: football, basketball, Future Farmers of America, and the Cue and Curtain Club where he served as vice-president .

For his efforts during the 1947 season at HHS Douglas was selected as 10-AA First Team All-District tackle. Because of his play during his senior year, the Horned Frogs of TCU noticed his abilities and signed him to a scholarship to go play football in Fort Worth.

After graduating from HHS, Douglas went on to play football at Texas Christian University. There he became a three year letterman (1949-51). Douglas played on the 1951 Southwest Conference Championship football team. Due to his efforts that season he was selected to the 1951 All-American Team. Douglas graduated from TCU in 1952 and later went on to Baylor University to earn his Master’s Degree. In 2001, Douglas Conaway was inducted into the Texas Christian University Lettermen’s Association Hall of Fame. Douglas also served in the U.S. Army Reserves during time at TCU.

While at TCU his football talents were noted as he was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 1952 NFL Draft. He was paid $4,500 for his rookie season. While at training camp with the Redskins at Occidental College he sustained a concussion. His wife, Francine, told stories about the letters he wrote regarding his injury. During the season he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He finished his season and career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He had had enough of the NFL business and decided it was time to go back home.

1952 was a busy year for Mr. Conaway. Upon his return home be began his coaching career in Bynum, married his sweetheart Francine in November, and was drafted by the U.S. Army. While in Bynum he coached, taught social studies, and drove the school bus. During his enlistment in the army, Douglas and Francine had the first of three children; Sue Conaway McClure, Douglas Conaway Junior and Frank Conaway. They now have three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

After his service to his country, Conaway continued his coaching at his alma mater as he came home to his beloved Hillsboro High School. He also earned a Master’s Degree from Baylor University during his years at HHS. He spent eight years as a teacher/coach for the Eagles. He was an assistant coach for the 1955 AA State Runner-Up HHS Football Team. The team finished the season with a 12-2 record falling to state power Stamford in the championship game. Conaway continued his coaching career until 1962 when he went to work for the U.S. Postal Service. Conaway worked with the U.S.P.S. until he retired in 1984. He and his wife Francine continue to live in Hillsboro. During the years, Coach Conaway remained active in the TCU Ex-Letterman’s and Alumni Associations.

The Hall of Fame Committee is very proud to add such an outstanding individual as Douglas Conaway to the Athletic Hall of Fame. He has made many contributions both as a student-athlete and a teacher/coach for HHS. Thank you for your contributions and the impact you have had on the many students and athletes you have taught. Congratulations on your induction into the Hillsboro High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Doug Conaway passed away on June 6, 2017.