Hall of Fame
Kenny Halloran cemented his legacy in Ranger lore when he became Jesuit’s first individual UIL state champion, in any sport, following his victory over Sean Glassel (Conroe The Woodlands) in the 145-pound weight class at the 2004 UIL State Wrestling Championships. The victory capped an inspiring tale of redemption for the Jesuit grappler, who was defeated by the reigning state champion Glassel in the Region III Championships just one week prior.
Halloran rarely tasted defeat during four exceptional years donning the Blue & Gold. Winning at least 30 matches in three consecutive seasons, Halloran finished his high school career with an overall record of 142-17. The two-time team captain was a two-time Texas Prep State wrestling champion (2002 and 2003) prior to Jesuit’s entrance into the UIL, while he finished as a state runner-up during his freshman campaign. During his last two seasons in which he was as dominant as any competitor in Texas, he paced the Rangers in take downs and pins, while earning team MVP honors after each season. At the conclusion of his senior year, Halloran secured All-State accolades, was named to the Dallas Morning News All-Area Wrestling Team, and received Honorable Mention All-America laurels from Wrestling USA magazine. He was also selected as the 2004 Athlete of the Year by the Jesuit Lettermen’s Club.
Halloran took his talents to the University of Michigan after graduation, becoming part of the perennially-successful Wolverine program. Helping Michigan achieve back-to-back top-five national rankings during his first two years with the team, Halloran made an immediate impact as a freshman by winning his first career collegiate match at the Eastern Michigan Open. Grand Valley State’s Mike Baltzel lost to the Jesuit product by pin fall in 21 seconds, setting the stage for a successful career in the 141 and 149-pound weight classes that was only overshadowed by being surrounded by a plethora of NCAA All-Americans and national champions. Following graduation, Halloran served for two years in Cambodia as part of the Peace Corps.
