Phi Delta Theta Inducts Chris Gilbert and Corby Robertson into Sports Hall of Fame

Phi Delta Theta Inducts Chris Gilbert and Corby Robertson into Sports Hall of Fame

Phi Delta Theta has a very proud history in the world of sports. Be it amateur, collegiate, or professional athletics, many Phis have made an impact as players, coaches, managers, and fans alike. For this reason, the Phi Delta Theta Sports Hall of Fame was created in 2010. In order to be enshrined in the Phi Delta Theta Sports Hall of Fame, an alumnus must have had an impact on the world of sports and exhibited the Fraternity’s Cardinal Principles along the way. Past inductees read like a who’s who of sports, including greats like Lou Gehrig, Tom Harmon, Weeb Ewbank, Ralph Wilson, and Don Meredith. 

During the 2025 Kleberg Emerging Leaders institute, Phi Delta Theta had the honor of inducting two incredible individual into the Sports Hall of Fame. On the field, in business, and through decades of service, these two Texas Beta Phis have built a shared legacy that continues to shape lives across generations. 

Chris Gilbert

Chris Gilbert, Texas ’69, one of the most decorated running backs in University of Texas history, rushed for more than 3,200 yards in just twenty-nine games and became the first player in NCAA history to post three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. A three-time All-Southwest Conference selection, three-time team MVP, and 1968 consensus All-American, Gilbert also co-captained the Longhorns to a Southwest Conference title and finished eighth in Heisman Trophy voting that same year.

That summer, before his senior season, Gilbert partnered with teammate Corbin Robertson, Texas ’69, to co-found Camp Olympia, a summer camp designed to develop character and leadership in young people through sports and the outdoors. Starting with just eight cabins and eighty-nine campers, Camp Olympia has since grown into a nationally recognized program that has impacted more than 400,000 campers and counselors over its fifty-six year history.

Corbin Robertson

Robertson’s vision extended beyond the camp. He went on to create Whispering Pines Golf Club, consistently ranked among the top courses in the nation, and launched the Spirit Golf Association, which hosts world-class amateur competitions and supports philanthropic initiatives benefiting youth, education, and communities worldwide.

From the football field to the fairway, and from the boardroom to the campfire, Gilbert and Robertson have built a lasting legacy rooted in brotherhood, service, and the belief that sports can help shape lives for the better.

Phi Delta Theta is honored to recognize Chris Gilbert and Corbin J. Robertson Jr. as members of the Phi Delta Theta Sports Hall of Fame.