James Gamble

Coach Herbert "Diboll" Allen has had an outstanding career in athletics. He attended Texas College for 2 years where he played baseball and competed in track & field. He then transferred to Texas Southern University, where he played football, baseball, and competed in track & field. After graduating from college he coached football and baseball. Coach Allen's career began at Hearne High School (1955-56); Diboll High School (1957-62); Anahuac High School (1962-66); Aldine High School (1966-70); and Klein High School (1970-85).

He has had success at all levels, from 1A District Championship in football to a state finalist in 5A baseball.

Some of his outstanding athletes were: Roy Davis (Kansas City), Matthew Darwin (Philadelphia), Melvin Jones (Washington), Allen Rice (Minnesota). Coach Allen's football record was (81) Wins, (20) Loss, (7) Ties, Varsity.

Herbert "Diboll" Allen was the first African American High School 5A Baseball coach to take a team to the state finals in 1983. Coach Allen's baseball record was (529) Wins, (130) Loss, (0) Ties.

Some of his special honors include: Houston Post Baseball Coach of the Year, 1983. Inducted into the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) Hall of Honor, 1986. Coached the South Team in the Texas High School All-star Baseball game to a 5-3 victory in 1983.

Coach Allen was very activated in the old Prairie View League and instrumental in the organization of the ex-coaches and the All-Star Game during the 1960's. He is a member of the Texas high School Coaching Association-National Federation and U.S.A., Track & Field.

Coach Allen retired from coaching in 1985 and is currently Director of Plant Operation of Klein Independent School District.

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