Nomination year: 2023

Nominated by: Dorothy Webb

Nomination Category: Athletes & Coaches

Sport: Football

Years Participated: 1987-1990

Career Summary:

Eric Webb was a starting running back for the Celina High School Bulldogs during the fall of his junior and senior years (‘89-’90).  During each of those two seasons he was one half of a two-headed rushing monster that terrorized defenses.  Webb helped the Dawgs to a stellar combined record of 21-3 as a starter.

In 1989, eighth-year head coach Russell Richardson and the Dawgs, with Webb at tailback, completed a 9-1 regular season, losing only to private school power Franklin Road Academy in the second game of the season.  After eliminating Trousdale County in the opening round of the playoffs, the Black and Gold fell to defending state champion Donelson Christian Academy to finish the season with a 10-2 record. Webb, who took home All-District honors, racked up 905 yards rushing (6.4 per carry) and 9 touchdowns on 141 carries that season, while splitting carries and blocking for Clay County Sports Hall of Fame (CCSHOF) team member Jason Hamilton, who had 681 yards and 13 touchdowns.  Webb also recorded 76 tackles as part of a stingy defense that held opponents scoreless in five games.

In 1990, the stage was set for great things.  Many starters were returning, including Webb, who moved from tailback to fullback after the departure of Hamilton.  Now joining Webb was CCSHOF member Brian Burchett, who had previously played receiver.   The team ran wild through a perfect 10-0 regular season, highlighted by a 20-7 win over Franklin Road.  Webb helped the offense achieve 31.5 points per game with 643 yards (5.4 per carry) and 10 touchdowns, while blocking for Burchett who ran for 1,056 yards and 14 touchdowns. Unfortunately, a rematch with Franklin Road in the second round of the playoffs ended the Dawgs’ dream season.  Once again, Webb was a big part of a dominating defense that held opponents scoreless in six games.  Webb was named All-District and All-Midstate Honorable Mention for his efforts. 

Nominator comment:

“Eric was a great player and started on some of the best teams Celina ever had.

“Several of his teammates are in the hall of fame, and I feel like he belongs there with them.  It would also be very special to see him join his late sister, Melissa Webb, as a Clay County Sports Hall of Fame member.”