University of Texas Athletics

Diane Watson

Induction:
2013
Class:
1989

A two-time All-American and member of the Southwest Conference 1980s All-Decade First Team, Diane Watson was one of the first Longhorns to earn national distinction from the outside hitter position. A native of Westminster, Calif., Watson made an unprecedented decision to leave the Sunshine State’s mecca of volleyball talent to play collegiately in Austin. The 1983 Southwest Conference Newcomer of the Year became an immediate fan favorite because of her tenacious playing style. In 1985, she amassed 315 kills, 281 digs and hit .279 en route to earning Southwest Conference Player of the Year honors. She became the first Longhorn to earn all-conference honors in four straight seasons, and she led Texas to its first NCAA Championship semifinals appearance as a senior in 1986. At the conclusion of her collegiate playing career, Watson was UT’s all-time leader in kills (1,408), attacks (3,431) and digs (1,253). In today’s record book, she still ranks seventh in career kills, attacks and digs. Watson earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education/health in 1989. She continues to contribute to the development of volleyball in her current role as the assistant athletic coordinator and head volleyball coach at nearby Round Rock High School.

The University of Texas at Austin Athletics

Hall of Honor