HIKO, NV – Cody K Whipple, candidate for Nevada’s 4th Congressional District, today announced the endorsements of two distinguished Nevada coaches and Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) Hall of Fame inductees: Coach Don Anhder and Coach Rick Phillips.
Coach Don Anhder, inducted into the NIAA Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2001, offered his full support for Whipple’s campaign.
“I strongly believe that Cody will make a great representative for the fourth district of Nevada. He knows the rural way of life, and he loves our great state. He will always work hard to represent the people of the district. He’s a great man, and I will proudly recommend him and vote for him.” — Coach Don Anhder
Anhder launched his coaching career in 1978 at Pahranagat High as the head girls basketball coach and concluded it in 1995 as the school’s head softball coach. As a student-athlete at Rancho High School in Las Vegas, he excelled in three sports—football, baseball, and basketball—earning varsity letters in each. In his senior baseball season, he posted a .480 batting average while helping Rancho capture the 1965 state championship.
Coach Rick Phillips, inducted into the NIAA Hall of Fame Class of 2025, built a remarkable legacy at Lincoln County High School. Phillips spent nearly three decades coaching basketball and football, along with 30 years as athletic director. During 11 years from 1990 to 2000, he led the Lynx boys basketball program to six state championship appearances, capturing four titles. Over the course of his career, his teams reached the state tournament 17 times. In recognition of his impact, the school’s gymnasium bears his name.
Whipple expressed appreciation for the support from two leaders who shaped generations of Nevada students and athletes.
“It is an honor to have the endorsement of Coach Anhder and Coach Phillips,” said Whipple. “Their leadership, dedication, and lifelong commitment to Nevada’s young people have left a lasting impact, not only on me, but on our whole state.”
The endorsements add to growing support for Whipple’s campaign across Nevada’s rural communities.