By Meghan Pennell
This school year, Northwest plans to induct its inaugural class into the Athletic Hall of Fame. In early June, a committee, headed by Athletic Booster Club President Kevin Fries, was created to honor those who have demonstrated excellence in Northwest athletics.
Located in the trophy case in the main hall, the Athletic Hall of Fame will have large boards with nameplates, similar to other honors around the school. The Hall of Fame is designed to recognize recipients long-term, as nameplates will stay on each board permanently.
Next to the Hall of Fame will be a screen allowing viewers to read autobiographies of each inductee, including their achievements in Northwest athletics and their time afterward.
“The goal is to honor people who’ve had great athletic careers at Northwest High School,” said Assistant Principal PJ Smith. “This can be anyone, including contributors, managers, former directors and secretaries.”
The hall of fame committee plans to induct one team, six athletes, one coach, one contributor and one special award each year. Anyone can be nominated through a Google Form that will soon be available on the Northwest website. Then, the committee will consider each nominee.
Inductees will be honored at different athletic events throughout the year. This year’s class will be inducted at halftime during the football game on October 23 and at the Dave Gee Track Invite later this spring. Inductees include athletes Kirk Berggren, Melissa (Rauert) Cromer, Russ Harvey, Mike Leaman, Todd Olson and Rick Shwieger. Track Coach Dave Gee (1980-2014) will also be honored, as well as the undefeated 1985 football team and Kate Marron for her service to Northwest athletics.
“Everyone has a chance to be recognized and honored for their impact on the Northwest community,” Smith said.
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