Trina Daffer, a dedicated educator and long-time supporter of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS) athletics, is being recognized for her tireless contributions to the school with her induction into the PVHS Hall of Fame. While she may not have been an athlete herself, Trina’s impact on the athletic department and her efforts in maintaining the Hall of Fame are undeniable. Over the years, she has become a cornerstone of PVHS, connecting with students both in the classroom and on the field through her work as a teacher and sports statistician.
“I guess I don’t really know the exact reason for the induction,” Trina admitted with humility, “but I think it’s probably for doing the books, stats, and keeping the Hall of Fame going.” Trina has been a vital part of the school’s athletic administration for decades, meticulously keeping the official statistics for various sports, including basketball, volleyball, and football. She started doing this work as a freshman in high school and has continued ever since, making her one of the most consistent contributors behind the scenes.
Trina’s journey to Pahrump began in 1987 when she and her husband, Marty, moved to the area. After finishing her degree at UNLV and completing her student teaching in Pahrump in 1990, Trina joined the PVHS faculty the following year. At the time, she was the school’s second math teacher, helping the department expand to accommodate a growing student body. “The school was much smaller back then,” she recalled. “We moved into the new building in 1991, and that was my first year teaching.”
Her passion for sports soon became intertwined with her role as an educator. In 1995, Trina began keeping the official scorebook for basketball after a suggestion from a fellow teacher, Mr. Anderson. She took to it naturally, joining Mr. Giannotti as a key figure in managing the stats for games. Over the years, Trina has also worked with volleyball and football, maintaining the same attention to detail and commitment to the athletic program.
“It’s a lot more complicated than people realize,” Trina explained about keeping the scorebook. “In basketball, you’re the official book, and it’s not just about hitting a button when points are scored. You’re documenting everything—it’s a serious responsibility.” Despite the complexity of the job, Trina never hesitated to step up, even volunteering for away games when her children participated in sports. “I just do home games now, but back when my kids were in school, I used to travel and do the books for away games too.”
Trina’s involvement with the PVHS Hall of Fame is another reason for her induction. She has been instrumental in maintaining the Hall of Fame over the years, a role she fell into naturally due to her long-standing involvement with the school. “I think I might be one of the last originals,” she said, noting that her commitment to the Hall of Fame dates back to its early days. Her efforts have ensured that PVHS continues to honor its athletes and contributors, preserving the legacy of the school’s sports programs.
For Trina, being inducted into the Hall of Fame is a special honor, though she’s quick to downplay her role. “It’s really cool, but I’m not an athlete,” she laughed, acknowledging that her contributions lie in a different realm. Still, she understands the significance of her work and its impact on the school. “I just stayed involved—it helps me connect with my kids (students),” she said. “They see me at games, they know I know something about sports, and it gives us a way to bond. It’s the same as watching them perform in a school play—it’s about supporting them.”
Trina’s support of her children is evident in the fact that all seven of her kids attended PVHS. Her daughter, who is also being inducted into the Hall of Fame this year, excelled in basketball, volleyball, and softball. “She was very athletic,” Trina said proudly. “She played volleyball at Southern Utah University and now lives in Alaska, where she coaches basketball at a small school.” Trina’s children were central to her involvement in PVHS sports, and her role as a statistician was often as much about supporting her family as it was about supporting the teams.
As a teacher, Trina has left an equally significant mark. Known for her high expectations and rigorous standards, she has pushed generations of students to excel in math. “I know I’m a tough teacher, but I also know that you will learn if you’re in my class,” she said confidently. “You can’t learn math without practice, and I make sure my students understand that.”
This year marks Trina’s 30th year of teaching, and while she plans to retire, she has no intention of stepping away from education altogether. “I’m retiring, but I’m not done teaching,” she explained. “I still love it, and I plan to come back.” Her commitment to teaching and the school community is clear, and even in retirement, she plans to stay involved. She is already helping train others to take over her duties as a statistician, ensuring that the traditions she has upheld for decades continue.
Reflecting on her long career, Trina is deeply connected to PVHS. “You get so attached to the school and the kids,” she said. “I go back home to my own high school and still want to support them, and it’s the same here. Staying involved helps you feel connected to everything.”
Trina’s contributions to PVHS athletics, her role in keeping the Hall of Fame alive, and her dedication as a teacher have all left an indelible mark on the school. As she looks forward to retirement, her legacy will continue to inspire students and staff alike. “I’ve been doing this for a long time,” she said, “and I’m not done yet.” For Trina, the Hall of Fame induction is a recognition of her lifetime of service, and though she may not have been an athlete herself, her influence on PVHS athletics and the broader school community is immeasurable.
