image via Albany State Athletics
Courtesy of ASU Athletics
Albany State University Athletics proudly announces the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, a distinguished group whose achievements represent excellence, legacy, and lasting impact on Golden Rams athletics.
The Class of 2026 includes legendary coach Edward “E.T.” Taylor; former student-athletes Janel Herring-Farlin, Eddie Wilson, Frank “Choo Choo” Brown, and Keith Kinney; the historic 2016 Darton State College Baseball Team; and meritorious inductee Robert L. Sampson Sr.
Together, this class embodies the rich tradition, competitive spirit, and enduring pride that define Albany State University Athletics. “This Hall of Fame class represents excellence across generations of Golden Rams, including those who competed with pride at Darton State College,” said Dr. Kristene Kelly, Director of Athletics. “Their impact helped shape who we are today. We are honored to celebrate a legacy that continues to move Albany State Athletics forward.”
The inductees will be officially recognized at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 7 p.m., ahead of the Golden Rams’ first home football game of the season.
Janel Herring-Farlin (2002–2004)
A native of Tallahassee, Florida, Janel Herring-Farlin stands among the most accomplished multi-sport student-athletes in Albany State history. Competing in both volleyball and track and field, she demonstrated exceptional versatility, leadership, and competitive excellence.
On the volleyball court, Herring-Farlin helped lead the Lady Rams to five consecutive SIAC championships (2001–2005) while earning numerous individual honors, including SIAC Best Offensive Player of the Year (2003, 2004), SIAC Most Valuable Player (2004), and SIAC Tournament MVP (2002). She was named to multiple All-Conference and All-Tournament teams throughout her career.
In track and field, she excelled in the triple jump, earning podium finishes at the SIAC Championships. Named Albany State Athlete of the Year in 2003, Herring-Farlin’s legacy is defined by championship success, sustained excellence, and her lasting impact on the Lady Rams program.
Keith Kinney (1978–1982)
Keith Kinney is recognized as one of the most accomplished distance runners in SIAC history. After joining Albany State on a full scholarship in 1977, he led the Golden Rams to four consecutive SIAC Cross Country championships from 1977 to 1980 under legendary coach Robert Cross.
Kinney captured multiple conference titles in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and 1,500 meters, setting conference records in each event. His honors include Albany State Athlete of the Year (1979) and SIAC Most Outstanding Track and Field Athlete (1981). He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a focus on Management.
Beyond athletics, Kinney has remained deeply engaged with Albany State through alumni leadership and service. Professionally, he serves as an inspector at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, earning the prestigious Aero Star Award in 2023. His continued commitment to mentorship and community service reflects the leadership and discipline that defined his athletic career.
Eddie Wilson (1970–1974)
A native of Monticello, Florida, Eddie Wilson distinguished himself as one of Albany State’s premier multi-sport athletes. A four-year starter in both football and baseball, Wilson also lettered in track and field as a sprinter in the 100-meter dash and 4×100 relay.
His consistent performance earned All-SIAC honors and established him as one of the Golden Rams’ most dependable competitors. Wilson’s athletic career reached the professional ranks when he was selected in the 11th round of the 1974 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
Now retired, Wilson has remained committed to mentoring young athletes through community coaching in softball and basketball. His lifelong dedication to sport and service reflects the values of Albany State University.
Frank “Choo Choo” Brown (1964–1968)
Frank “Choo Choo” Brown is one of the most distinguished figures in Albany State football history. A native of Phenix City, Alabama, Brown competed for the Golden Rams from 1964 to 1968, becoming one of the most dominant defensive linemen of his era.
He earned All-Conference honors four consecutive seasons and was named SIAC Defensive Player of the Year in 1967. Brown received All-American honors in 1967 and became the first Albany State student-athlete drafted into the National Football League when he was selected in the 1968 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
Following his playing career, Brown dedicated more than two decades to public education in Connecticut as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and administrator. He broke barriers as the first African American athletic director and head football coach in the Fairfield County School System, leading teams to multiple state and regional championships. His legacy reflects athletic excellence, educational leadership, and lifelong service.
Team
2016 Darton State College Baseball Team
The 2016 Darton State College baseball team set the gold standard in program history, finishing with a 43–21 overall record and a 21–7 conference mark under Head Coach Scot Hemmings.
The Cavaliers captured both the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association (GCAA) Regular Season and Tournament Championships and advanced to the Junior College World Series after winning the East Central District Championship. Darton won four consecutive elimination games during its postseason run, including a dramatic walk-off victory to clinch the regional title.
Ranked nationally throughout the season and finishing No. 9 in the final poll, the team also excelled academically with a 3.30 spring GPA. Competing in what marked Darton State College’s final year prior to consolidation, the team’s unity and resilience solidified a historic chapter that continues to resonate within Albany State Athletics.
Coach
Edward “E.T.” Taylor (2002–2010)
Edward “E.T.” Taylor is a legendary figure in Albany State athletics as both a former student-athlete and head baseball coach. A two-sport competitor in football and baseball, Taylor’s resilience and leadership defined his time as a Golden Ram.
From 2002 to 2010, Taylor led the Albany State baseball program to one of its most successful eras, compiling a 246–155 record, winning six conference championships, and guiding the Rams to two NCAA Regional appearances. Known for developing disciplined and fundamentally sound teams, Taylor built a culture rooted in accountability and competitive excellence.
Today, he continues to impact young athletes as a coach with the Texas Rangers Youth Academy, carrying forward a legacy of perseverance and Golden Ram pride.
Meritorious
Robert L. Sampson Sr.
Robert L. Sampson Sr., a member of the Albany State University Class of 1976, is honored for his unwavering commitment to Golden Rams athletics. A two-sport student-athlete in football and basketball, Sampson has devoted more than 25 years to supporting athletics and youth development in the Albany community.
He served as President of the Westover High School Football Gridiron Club for a decade and founded the Albany State Quarterback Club, mobilizing alumni and supporters in meaningful ways that strengthened Golden Rams athletics.
Through sustained mentorship, fundraising, and civic engagement, Sampson’s service has left a lasting imprint on Albany State University and the community it serves.
