Brooking, McLendon Inducted into Coweta Sports Hall of Fame

Two athletes with distinguished careers honored at annual ceremony

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of green, gold, and red, conceptually representing the energy and excitement of a sports hall of fame induction ceremony.The induction of two local sports legends into the Coweta Hall of Fame celebrates the region's proud athletic heritage.Newnan Today

Former NFL linebacker Keith Brooking and Olympic equestrian Julie Burns Richards McLendon were inducted into the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame during the organization's 23rd annual ceremony held at the Coweta County Fairgrounds and Conference Center in Newnan, Georgia.

Why it matters

The Coweta Sports Hall of Fame honors the region's most accomplished athletes, recognizing their contributions to sports and the local community. Induction into the hall is considered one of the highest accolades for Coweta County athletes.

The details

Brooking and McLendon were the headliners of the 2026 induction class, which celebrated their distinguished careers at the professional and Olympic levels. Brooking played 14 seasons in the NFL, making five Pro Bowls, while McLendon represented the United States in equestrian competition at the 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.

  • The 23rd annual Coweta Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place on March 30, 2026.
  • Brooking and McLendon were honored as the newest members of the hall during the ceremony.

The players

Keith Brooking

A former NFL linebacker who played 14 seasons in the league, making five Pro Bowls.

Julie Burns Richards McLendon

An Olympic equestrian who represented the United States at the 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's an incredible honor to be inducted into the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame. This community has meant so much to me throughout my career, and I'm humbled to join the other amazing athletes who have been recognized.”

— Keith Brooking, Former NFL Linebacker

“Competing at the Olympic level was a dream come true, and to now be recognized by my hometown is truly special. I'm grateful for the support Coweta County has shown me over the years.”

— Julie Burns Richards McLendon, Olympic Equestrian

The takeaway

The induction of Brooking and McLendon into the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame highlights the region's rich athletic history and the community's pride in supporting local athletes who have achieved success at the highest levels of their respective sports.