The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame will soon recognize the football career of former Republic High School football standout Steve Forbis, who later enjoyed success at Missouri Southern in Joplin.
Forbis is among the Elite 11, a group of former high school and college standouts who will be recognized during the NFL Kickoff Sports Enthusiasts Luncheon presented by Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper on Wednesday, Oct. 28.
The 11 a.m. ceremony is at Springfield’s University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, where the Hall will induct former Kansas City Chiefs receiver Eddie Kennison; former Missouri State football All-American tackle and coach Rich Johanningmeier; and former Carrollton High School coach Stan Kee.
Forbis became one of the Republic High School’s best football players, helping Republic to its first two undefeated regular seasons in 1980 and 1981.He was named a first team all-state linebacker in 1981.
He later coached Springfield’s Central High School for nine seasons. Forbis also lettered in football at Missouri Southern State University, setting the school record for most tackles in a season (148), and ranks third in career tackles with 365. He was also named NAIA first team All-District in addition to all-conference and academic All-American. He is a member of Republic High School football’s coaching staff and is the head track and field coach at Republic.
The Elite 11 features: defensive lineman Brett Potts (Bolivar, Pittsburg State); quarterback Eric Czerniewski (Montgomery County, Central Missouri); lineman Rusty Shadel (Lebanon, Missouri State); running back Rex Sawyer (Ava, Missouri Valley College); linebacker Steve Forbis (Republic, Missouri Southern); defensive tackle Lorenzo Williams (Mizzou); punter/quarterback Chuck Blair (Camdenton, Central Missouri); kicker Jeremy Flores (Willard, Colorado); defensive back T.J. Onstott (Lamar, Missouri Southern); split end Steve Newbold (Aurora, Missouri State); and running back Justin Gerald (Hillcrest, Central Methodist).
An individual ticket is $40. Tables of eight are $400 and includes associate sponsorship recognition in the printed program. Head table tickets are $100. For tickets, call the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame at 417-889-3100.