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Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic

1999 HALL OF FAME

Gussie Nell Davis

  • Position Kilgore Rangerettes
  • Hometown Farmersville, Texas
  • Classic Memories Founded: 1940 Cotton Bowl Classic Appearances: 1949, 1951-1979 Rangerettes' Total Classic Appearances: 1949, 1951-1999

Biography

For the past half-century, the Kilgore Rangerettes, Kilgore College and the Southwestern Bell Cotton Bowl Classic have shared a unique and lasting relationship. Founded in 1940 by the legendary Gussie Nell Davis, the Rangerettes paid their first visit to the Cotton Bowl in 1949. Two years later, Davis' internationally acclaimed drill team launched a streak in the Classic that soon will reach 50 consecutive appearances on New Year's Day, 2000. With her celebrated eye for detail, Ms. Davis brought "show business" to the game of football with the Rangerettes distinctive style and highly synchronized choreography. Every day she reminded her girls to "Never settle for less than perfection. Always remember who you are, you're a Rangerette!"