07/26/2026
Champions On and Off the Field: Buffalo Soldiers KOP Council No. 20 Named 2026 Council of the Year 🏆
The Buffalo Soldiers KOP Council No. 20 proudly participated in the Annual Knights of Pythagoras Leadership Conference, held July 23–26, 2026, in Killeen, Texas.
Throughout the conference, our young men participated in leadership development classes, Artificial Intelligence training, athletic competitions, and fellowship activities. Parents also attended committee training and elections, while the KOP Grand Council elections were conducted on Friday.
We were honored to have District Deputy Grand Master Clifford Massey in attendance throughout the conference. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Worshipful Master Joshua Themann of Pride of San Marcos Lodge No. 494 and Past Master Dr. Ashley Moye of J. Washington Lodge No. 191 for their steadfast support of the Buffalo Soldiers Council No. 20 during the conference. Their presence and encouragement were greatly appreciated by our young men.
Saturday morning featured spirited football and basketball competitions, followed by an afternoon of fellowship with swimming and go-kart racing. The conference concluded with an outstanding awards banquet on Saturday evening.
We were especially proud as our very own Jaxon Carr delivered the opening scripture, Psalm 133:1:
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
🏆 Athletic Competition Results
🥇 1st Place – Football
* Christian Jackson
* Christopher Ursery
🥇 1st Place – Basketball
* Elijah Colbert-Jordan
* Jonathan Colbert-Jordan
🥉 3rd Place – Basketball
* Sergio Sampayo
* Kieran Davis
* Dylan Chatman
* Jaxon Carr
🎤 Oratorical Competition
Our newest members represented Council No. 20 with distinction in the Oratorical Competition:
🥈 2nd Place – Kieran Davis
🥉 3rd Place – Sergio Sampayo
Their outstanding performances showcased their confidence, preparation, and public speaking abilities.
⚔️ Knight Mentor Recognition
Adding to an already successful weekend, Kieran Davis, Sergio Sampayo, and Dylan Chatman were officially dubbed as Knight Mentors. This recognition reflects their leadership, maturity, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of Knights of Pythagoras.
⭐ 2026 KOP Council of the Year
The weekend concluded with the highest honor a council can receive as the Buffalo Soldiers KOP Council No. 20 was named the 2026 Knights of Pythagoras Council of the Year! 🏆
This prestigious recognition reflects the dedication of our young men, the unwavering support of our parents, the commitment of our Sir Knights, and the continued investment of the brethren who believe in developing the next generation of leaders.
Congratulations to every member of Buffalo Soldiers KOP Council No. 20. Your hard work, discipline, sportsmanship, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to make District 23 and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas proud.
To our parents, supporters, and sponsoring lodges—thank you for believing in these young men and helping them grow into tomorrow’s leaders.
“Building Leaders. Developing Character. Serving the Community.”
Pride of San Marcos Lodge #494
District 23 - PHA Masons of TexasJ. Washington Lodge No. 191
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F & AM of TX and Jurisdiction
Michael Simms Sr
