Coach Gaylard Fenley, an icon in AHISD history, is widely credited with revitalizing the District's athletic program during his 18 years of service. Using his history as a successful athlete, he began coaching in 1965 while earning his Masters in Education. A transplant from Houston, he began his Alamo Heights career in 1983 as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director. In just his second season, he led the Mules to the playoffs, ending a 30-year drought. Coach Fenley continued improving athletic teams at AHHS for several years, and in 1991, he led the Mules to an undefeated season and their first District Championship.
Among numerous other victories, Coach Fenley guided his teams to ten State Championships, shaping the legacy of excellence that Heights is known for today. Coach Fenley mentored countless young athletes, imparting life lessons and instilling values of teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. His reputation extended beyond sports, earning him the respect and admiration of generations who learned from his example. He shaped his students into leaders of character both on and off the field. This passion for coaching and dedication to success was rewarded with multiple honors, including being named Greater Houston Coach of the Year in 1978, receiving the prestigious Tom Landry Award in 1995, and his posthumous induction into the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association's Hall of Honor in 2008.
Coach Fenley's legacy is also marked by the support of his wife, Carol, who taught Kindergarten at Howard Early Childhood Center for 18 years. Together, they raised three sons—Steven, Ryan, and Chad. Coach Fenley was known for raising the bar beyond what was thought possible, and his victories remain an enduring measure of excellence in the community.