Katy Community Honors Retiring Katy Bengal Brigade Director
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KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
May 12, 2026
By Natalie Cook Clark
Longtime Katy legend, Patty Henson is retiring after directing the Katy High School Bengal Brigade and Cheerleaders for 43 years. Tonight, the community has an opportunity to say thanks and honor a career that has impacted many Katy families.
The Katy High School staff, Bengal Brigade family, and the Katy community are invited to honor Patty Henson tonight, May 12, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. The event will take place at Rhodes Stadium (1733 Katyland Drive) for a pre-game recognition followed by a reception at the Legacy Stadium Community Rooms.
“I will always remember the people because they are what made this journey so meaningful,” says Patty Henson. “I will always remember the overwhelming love and support of this community, the friendships that became family, and of course, I will always remember to wear RED on Fridays.”
Her impact to her students and the community over four decades is truly something to celebrate. During all this time, she’s witnessed so many changes to the community and the world.
“We’ve evolved from record players to cassette tapes, CDs, and now apps for everything imaginable,” explains Henson. “We’ve gone from Polaroid cameras to iPhones capturing every special moment instantly. Through every change and every new adventure, this team has continued to rise to the next level.”
During her direction, the Bengal Brigade and Cheerleaders have experienced tremendous growth, unforgettable opportunities, and countless awards.
“Dance styles have evolved, stunts have come full circle, and traditions have grown stronger—but through it all, the students have always been the heart and soul that make everything work,” says Henson.
Henson stresses that her greatest success will always be her students as they are so much more than dancers and cheerleaders.
“These girls are some of the greatest treasurers God has created,” says Henson. “Sometimes success is having a drama-free day, making sure every team member feels valued and seen, or simply creating an environment where everyone feels loved and included. Those are the moments that truly matter.”
Her biggest challenge was always to remember that these are young people with dreams, hopes, and goals—and realizing that it was her responsibility to help guide, encourage, and support them.
“There has never been anyone more dedicated to the kids and school spirit of Katy High School than Patty Henson,” says Katy Football Coach Gary Joseph. “The athletic programs at Katy High School will forever be indebted to her for the contributions to our programs and their success.”
Over four decades Henson has directed and touched the lives of so many students.
“Thank you, Ms. Henson, for the things you instilled in my two daughters,” says Katy mom Kathy Brasher. “You were an amazing example to both of them, and you will always be remembered.”
“You have influenced the lives of so many girls in a positive way during your 40+ years,” says Bonnie Holland. “You have also entertained the Katy Tiger’s fan base and others with outstanding halftime shows. I never saw a bad one!”
Over the years, Henson has coached many second-generation students but this season was truly special as she got to welcome her first third generation student. Henson coached Jill Strickler, her daughter Hayley Johanson and now her granddaughter Brynlee Johanson!
Going into retirement, Henson plans to turn off her alarm clock!
“I am going to enjoy seeing my home in the daylight and spend precious time with family and friends,” says Henson. “I’m looking forward to slowing down a little while making new memories along the way.”
“KBBC members are simply the BEST,” says Henson. “They have inspired me with their energy, enthusiasm, resilience, and willingness to always go above and beyond. Their passion, love for one another, and dedication to this program have motivated me every single day.”
Henson feels extremely blessed to be turning this program over to three of her former students.
“Olivia Skrabanek will be taking over the Bengal Brigade program,” says Henson. “Olivia has worked with the team for the past eight years and is more than prepared to lead this program to even greater heights. We are still awaiting the announcement of our new assistant director, but I am confident they will be a tremendous asset to the team.”
“Erica Wood will step in as Varsity Cheer Coach,” says Henson. “Mrs. Wood is in her second year back home at Katy, and she is absolutely phenomenal. I know wonderful things are ahead for our cheerleaders. Mallory Lawley, another KBBC alumna, will coach the freshman cheerleaders, while Jenna Richardson will be working with the junior varsity program.”
Henson’s best advice for the KBBC is to keep moving forward and always choose kindness.
“Never forget the incredible legacy, traditions, and pride that make Katy High School so special,” stresses Henson.
She will miss everything about Katy High School and working with her kids, coworkers (who she also calls friends) and the unforgettable Friday night lights with the Tigers.
“But don’t worry, I’ll still be there, just arriving a little later,” says Henson.
