SMC Athletic Hall of Fame
History of the Athletic Hall of Fame
The Athletic Hall of Fame,establised in 1983, was a dream realized for then athletic director and alumnus Steve Larson (Class of 1969). Wanting to capitalize on the rich tradition of SMC and modeling it on a program he had worked with, Steve initially formed a Hall of Fame committee to help bring the idea to fruition. Those who were instrumental to Larson’s plan were legendary coach Ralph McClone, Katie Zelinski, Rich Konkol, Ed Resch and the school administration. The committee also consulted with George Mancosky, recognized long-time sports writer for the Twin City News Record/Appleton Post Crescent, who helped by providing background information and research.
Working in conjunction with the school’s Alumni Association staff, the founders decided to combine the Hall of Fame Banquet with the existing annual Alumni Dinner. The response was overwhelmingly enthusiastic and this tradition continues today.
The following year, Steve was instrumental in initiating an Alumni Achievement Award to honor and recognize alumni who had distinguished themselves in areas in addition to or outside of athletics. The presentation of this award also became part of the Alumni Dinner/Hall of Fame Banquet evening.
Since 1983, 89 members have been inducted into the St. Mary Central Hall of Fame, including the three individuals inducted this year. They are mostly alumni of SMC, but also include former coaches and honorary alumni. It is wonderful that 26 years later, the Zephyr tradition continues to thrive through the Athletic Hall of Fame!
Nominee Information Questionnaire: If you are a Hall of Fame nominee, click here to download the questionnaire.
Click here to view members of the SMC Athletic Hall of Fame
2010 Inductees: Click here to read about this year's inductees into SMC's Hall of Fame.
Nomination form: To nominate a candidate for the SMC Athletic Hall of Fame, click here.
HOF 25th Anniversary: Click here to view the Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary booklet.
