McMurry University Athletics

Naldie “Doolie” Hale truly was a pioneer of the McMurry University’s athletics program…as well as of the University, in general. Hale was not only a part of the original athletics teams, but also began attending McMurry in the Fall of 1923…when the school itself was in its embryonic juncture as an institution of higher education. Hale was a native of Bradshaw, Texas, came to McMurry from Abilene High School. Once on campus, he established himself as a three-sport athlete in the sports of football, basketball and track…three programs that still thrive today. Hale has the distinction of being a part of what was McMurry’s first-ever championship - of any kind - for athletics when the 1927 football team won the Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association title. His piercing eyes and chiseled features made him the perfect representation for McMurry’s upstart athletics program and growing University.