Dan Hinds

Inducted: 2025

Sport: Football

School: Desert Vista

In his 19-year career as the head football coach at Desert Vista High School, Dan Hinds had an overall record of 128-84. He led his team to the playoffs for 13 seasons. Under his leadership, his teams reached the semifinals four times and competed in the state championship game twice. In 2011, Coach Dan Hinds lead his team to a state championship victory against a nationally ranked opponent.

During his 25 years coaching, Dan Hinds garnered numerous accolades, including being named Coach of the Year for Arizona Central, Arizona Football Coaches Association, NFHS, Friday Night Fever, and AZ Tribune Coach of the Year. In 2011 Dan coached the ACA All Star team to victory against a California all-star team. His leadership was further recognized by the Arizona Cardinals, who honored him as Coach of the Week eight times.

Beyond the accolades, Dan Hinds prided himself on developing his players both on and off the field. He produced dozens of Division I athletes, with three of his former players going on to be drafted into the NFL and enjoying flourishing careers at the professional level.

Dan Hinds attributes his success to the unwavering support of his administration, fellow coaches, and, most importantly, his wife and family, who stood by him every step of the way. Reflecting on his career, he considers those 19 years to be the most rewarding and meaningful of his professional life, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the countless lives he touched along the way.