The Student News Site of University of Louisiana Monroe

The Hawkeye

The Student News Site of University of Louisiana Monroe

The Hawkeye

The Student News Site of University of Louisiana Monroe

The Hawkeye

Former Indian coach Benny Hollis, 71, passes away

Former Indian coach Benny Hollis, 71, passes away

Editor’s Note: © 2011, The News-Star. Republished with permission. Written by Stacy Temple.

A pillar in the foundation of University of Louisiana at Monroe athletics has died.

Benny Hollis, who served as director of athletics and men’s basketball head coach when the university was known as Northeast Louisiana University, died Saturday. He was 71.

Hollis served as an assistant men’s basketball coach at the college from 1971-79 before being made head coach in 1980-81. While serving as head coach, Hollis led the hoops team to the 1980 Trans-America Athletic Conference title before being named director of athletics in 1982, a position he held until 1994.

During his tenure as athletics director, Hollis oversaw the school’s move to I-A football before his retirement. In 2003, Hollis was inducted into the ULM Hall of Fame….

Click here for the full story about Benny Hollis

View Comments (1)
More to Discover

Comments (1)

All The Hawkeye Picks Reader Picks Sort: Newest

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • D

    david pickettMar 13, 2011 at 10:19 am

    I, and the entire Pickett family, are deeply saddened to hear of Coach Hollis’ passing. When he came to Ashdown, Ar in 1972 to recruit me the Pickett family had no idea the influence he would have over our lives. He became a great friend to my father and mother, Embry and Lela Pickett, a coach and friend to me and my brother, John. A man who cared about my brother Mark as he competed on the football field for the Indians (Warhawks). A confidant to my brother Joe, but most especially he became somone we all loved, cared about and have never forgotten. As we all talked last night the abiding thought was where would our lives have taken us if Coach Hollis had not made the trips to Ashdown, AR in January and February of 1972? Without a doubt we would have missed out on friendships, wives, valuable life lessons, and on and on. He is gone to be with his Lord now, but he will not be forgotten and will remain in my heart and my family’s heart for eternity. It has been our privilege to count Coach Hollis, DeLane, Jay and Bonnie as our friends for nearly 40 years. Thanks to Delane, Jay, and Bonnie for sharing him with us. You all ahve our deepest sympathies. Love, David Pickett

    Reply