New Endowment Strengthens Handball Tradition at Texas A&M

Gift Expands Opportunities for Student Wellness and Community

The College of Education and Human Development is celebrating a new gift from Doug and Nick Randolph, through the Randolph Foundation for Higher Education, that advances the sport of handball at Texas A&M University. Building on their initial support in 2019, this endowment ensures the continued growth of the Texas A&M Handball Club and the Physical Education Activity Program (PEAP), housed in the College’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management.

“This is not just a gift, but an opportunity for students to continue experiencing the lifelong benefits of fitness, wellness and community that handball provides,” said Dr. Michael A. de Miranda, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development. “Doug and Nick’s commitment exemplifies the Aggie spirit of leadership, loyalty and selfless service.”

Two women play a competitive game of handball on a court. One lunges forward, focused, with a blue ball in motion. Both wear eye protection and gloves.

Photo Courtesy: Texas A&M Handball

Handball has been part of Texas A&M’s history for a century, offering students a unique way to stay active, build friendships and develop resilience. Doug Randolph, whose passion for the sport spans over five decades, credits handball with shaping his confidence and success in business. “Without handball, I would not have been able to accomplish what I have achieved,” he shared.

By funding a full-time instructor and supporting competitive opportunities, the endowment ensures that students can experience the physical and mental benefits of handball for future generations. It also reinforces the importance of real-world connections, encouraging students to build friendships and leadership skills through shared activity.

The gift also honors four Aggie handball legends—Ozzie Burke ’71, Jack Gressett ’76, Charlie Bokelman and retired Brigadier General Donald “Don” Johnson ’55—whose leadership and passion shaped the program for decades.

Randolph hopes to see more handball legends grow in Aggieland with the support of this endowment. “For me, seeing others play handball is the accomplishment, the success—it’s my gift.”

For media inquiries, contact Ruben Hidalgo.