This event will honor Robert Rives.
At the Texas School for the Deaf (TSD), the facility formerly known simply as the "TSD Gym" (the middle school gym) has been officially renamed Rives Gym. This change comes after legislative approval and recognition of an important figure in the school's history: Robert Rives.
Who Was Robert Rives?
Robert Rives was the first alumnus of TSD, graduating in the Class of 1887, who returned to his alma mater to serve after getting a degree from Gallaudet College.
He dedicated 42 years of his life to teaching at TSD and became the school's first football coach, leading the formation of an unofficial team at a time when the superintendent did not support the sport. Eventually, under more favorable leadership, the program became official.
Texas School for the Deaf
A formal proposal to name the middle school gym in his honor was approved by TSD's Governing Board, followed by approval from the Texas Facilities Commission (TFC). It then proceeded through the legislative process and was officially enacted via state legislation, including Texas Senate Concurrent Resolution 5, which directed the school to name the gym the Robert Rives Gymnasium. The resolution was signed into law in mid-2025.
As of August 2025, the renaming has taken effect, and the facility will now be referred to as Rives Gym, replacing the generic “TSD Gym” designation. A ribbon-cutting and opening ceremony is planned, involving students, alumni, and legislative representatives.
We are excited to celebrate the official dedication of the Rives Gymnasium for our middle school students on August 22nd. This will be a closed event where we look forward to sharing this milestone with our students, staff, and special guests!