Ken Hall, who was widely called the “Sugar Land Express,” is a name that will always be linked to high school football.
His legendary career on the field is complemented by his enduring personal life, particularly his relationship with his high school sweetheart and wife, Gloria Ross Hall.
Ken met Gloria while they were both in high school at Sugar Land High School in Texas. They fell in love, and Gloria became his biggest supporter.
The couple married in December 1955, shortly after Hall graduated from high school and briefly attended Texas A&M University.
Ken Hall’s wife, Gloria, has been a constant presence in Hall’s life, supporting him through the highs and lows of his career.
Together, Ken and Gloria built a family that includes two grown sons and five grandchildren.
Ken Hall was an amazing football player. In just 38 games between 1951 and 1953, he set 17 national high school football records.
His career rushing record of 11,232 yards stood unchallenged for decades until Derrick Henry surpassed it in 2012.
Ken was known for his speed and agility. He once scored seven touchdowns in a single game without being tackled, an awe-inspiring feat.
Hall’s talents earned him a spot at Texas A&M under the legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.
However, he didn’t stay long because he wasn’t happy with his role on the team. Years later, Coach Bryant apologized for how he treated Ken during those times.
After leaving college football, Ken played professionally in the Canadian Football League and for several NFL teams, including the Baltimore Colts, Chicago Cardinals, Houston Oilers, and St. Louis Cardinals.
He was part of two championship teams: the 1958 NFL Champion Baltimore Colts and the 1960 AFL Champion Houston Oilers.
Ken Hall’s Contributions To Football Have Been Widely Recognized
Ken Hall moved into a successful post-football career as a sales manager for Sweetener Products Company, a large sugar distributor in Southern California.
His life came full circle in 2004 when Fort Bend Independent School District honored him by naming Kenneth Hall Stadium in Missouri City after him—a great honor for a man who greatly impacted Texas high school football.
While Ken Hall is famous for his football achievements, not much is known about Gloria Ross beyond her being his loving wife.
As his high school sweetheart and lifelong partner, she has been there for him through all the ups and downs.
Her support has undoubtedly been crucial in helping Ken navigate his life.
In 1983, he was inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame and the National High School Hall of Fame.
In 1994, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame also honored him. Additionally, the Ken Hall Trophy—awarded annually to the national high school football player of the year—ensures that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
In summary, while Ken Hall’s athletic achievements are legendary, his relationship with Gloria Ross adds depth to his story.
Their enduring partnership shows us that even the most legendary figures have a personal side that makes them relatable and human.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Ken Hall was born on December 13, 1935, in Madisonville, Texas, U.S
- On March 14, 2025, it was announced that Hall had died at 89.
- Hall established 17 national football records, several of which still stand.
