West Texas A&M University Athletics

Joe Brooks was recruited out of Silverton, Texas, High School by legendary Buff coach Frank Kimbrough. The 6-0, 195-pounder played four years WT as an offensive guard and linebacker.

His first start was the final game of his sophomore season in 1954. He then started the final 19 games of his career, which culminated in an 8-2 record in 1956 and a Tangerine Bowl win over Mississippi Southern.

Brooks was selected as co-captain of that 1956 team

He received his Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from WT in 1957 and earned his Masters of Education in 1964.

Brooks started his coaching career at Canyon, Texas, High, and then served as line coach at WT while he finished his master's degree. He served seven years at Hereford, Texas, High and ten years at Belton, Texas, High - all as an offensive line coach. For 20 years he was the principal at Belton Junior High and for seven he was assistant superintendent of the Belton ISD before retiring in 2004.