Graceland's football games were played at North Park and the bean field by the Administration Building was used for practice. Both Steve and his wife, Pam, have always been amazing supporters of the university. While in New York, Jeff maintained his small town values and worked for a variety of charitable organizations. He joined the Graceland Staff in 1959 and retired in 1973, faculty emeritus. Floyd Ayers graduated from Graceland in 1958 with an AA degree. She is currently in her 18th year of teaching in Stockton, California. Gary Sage was a member of the football and wrestling teams from 1960 to 1964. Dever was most successful wrestling at the 118 lbs. In his junior year, Chaz received the Doc Hughes Defensive Player of the Game award for his stellar execution in the 1982 homecoming football game. For the rest of the season, McCracken and fellow Hall of Famer Rich Harrop battled for the single-season record, and in the end it was Harrop who emerged with the record, having scored three more points than McCracken. In 2003, he was selected as Graceland's first full-time Director of Athletics. NFL. Vikings Set to Host Lindsey Wilson in the Quarterfinals. Over the years, he has received multiple coach-of-the-year awards and coached five outstanding high-school players who went on to play professional baseball. Collins was honored as an All-Conference football player his junior year. Day 2. They have two children, Andrea Jamal (A.J.) After basketball, Acosta became a pediatric nurse. WBO was a touring team, which played NCAA Division I teams during their preseason games. He would earn eleven varsity letters from Graceland: three football, four wrestling and four track. As a member of the Yellowjacket football team, Gary was as All-Conference selection in 1963 and 1964, and was named to the 1964 All-American Team as an honorable mention selection. He never lost an MCAU conference match. Gamet was also active in other campus activities by serving as business manager for the Acacia in 1929. She participated in two National Track Championships. He has aspirations if running a shelter for abused women and children in the future. She graduated in 1973, but not before Graceland's winter term program sent her to Honolulu to work at a cardiovascular research lab. Eskridge was later named equipment manager and purchasing agent for the Dallas Cowboys football team, a position he held for 13 years. Although Jackie made her mark in volleyball, what she did in softball was every bit as remarkable. Defensive Run Game and Special Teams Coordinator / Defensive Line. Jennie's performance was not hampered, however. Rich came back to Graceland in 1990 to coach the men's basketball team following his 25 years at the high school level, including 13 seasons at Watkins Memorial in Pataskala, Ohio and 12 years at Lamoni High School in Iowa. Rich came back to Graceland in 1990 to coach the men's basketball team following his 25 years at the high school level, including 13 seasons at Watkins Memorial in Pataskala, Ohio and 12 years at Lamoni High School in Iowa. Leading the team in tackles and recording three interceptions, one for a touchdown, he was a unanimous choice to both the All-District 15 and the All-HAAC teams. pro-football-reference.com. Teammates of Elmo were L.D. Between 1988 and 1994 his Port Huron Northern basketball teams posted a 115-45 record, winning one conference, three district and two regional championships and appearing in back-to-back state quarterfinal games against the nation's #1 and #5 high school teams. Following a four-year term as the Executive Vice-President (1988-1992) of the United States Volleyball Association, Jerry's involvement in volleyball culminated when he was elected President in 1992. He began coaching at Graceland in 1922, and worked at the college until 1944, including four years as the dean and acting President. Upon graduation from Graceland College in 1964, Gary taught and coached at Lee's Summit High School in Missouri. However, it was as a member of the Yellowjacket track and field team where Wendi's accomplishments will go down in the Graceland College record books. return to top, Hal McKain takes pride in his four-year coaching career and his financial contributions to Graceland. Throughout his career, Seefeldt was a two-time NAIA All-American, District 15 linebacker and first team all-conference player. Judy assisted Eugene in starting the first youth camp offered by the local church. Rich Harrop's collegiate athletic career started at Graceland in 1961. En route to those 13 interceptions, Martin picked off Tom Stine of Central Methodist University five times, halting the offense that still holds an NAIA record of highest average gain per completion. Sacks INT; 1 2023 Draft Results. The Laxtons own a financial services company and have two children, Bo and Josie. While teaching, Dr. Hutchins spent the next two years also playing semi-professional football with the Racine Raiders of the Central States Football League. Christel finished fifth in the 200 meter run and fourth in the long jump. As a Co-Captain of the team in 1964, Gary finished the season ninth in the nation in rushing. He is currently teaching in West Columbia, South Carolina, where he has been residing with his wife, Audrey, for the past 20 plus years, and they have an 18 year old daughter, Kristen. in Social Work from Graceland in 1979. In all, Brunner has given Graceland over 49,000 hours of his time and energy. Gary also received great success on the wrestling mat as well. On the field, Gray was a two-time defensive player of the week ('86), was voted first ever state Most Outstanding Lineman ('86), received All-Conference recognition ('87), was selected as a Licking County League All-Star and was a member of the team that was a Licking County League conference winner. From 1973 to 1978 she was coordinator of women's intercollegiate athletics and in 1978 served as athletic director. Never playing a day of organized softball until she arrived on campus, Allen was named HAAC player of the week on four separate occasions, 1st team all HAAC team in both of her Yellowjacket campaigns, and 1st team All-Region V her senior year. He received his B.A. He is currently teaching in West Columbia, South Carolina, where he has been residing with his wife, Audrey, for the past 20 plus years, and they have an 18 year old daughter, Kristen. NBA. She is enlisted in the military and is completing her final year of nursing school. Round. The current McDole won-lost record on the hill is 745-363 and counting as he remains the Head Women's Volleyball Coach and continues year after year to collaborate with quality student/athletes to raise anew the traditions of Graceland Volleyball. After getting used to the game, Thomas and some companions from the YMCA formed a club called the Chicago Rebels. He also directed the swim meet for Graceland Spectacular for 30 consecutive years." He is has six children (Courtney, Carinea, Caprica, Conner, Cameron and Cole). Dr. Nowlin is decorated with higher education degrees, including an EdD. Bruch's accolades began his junior year when he was an All-Heart of America Conference quarterback. Hughes credits his high school coach Carl Paight and Graceland Hall of Fame coaches Bill Dudekand Dr.Gary Collins for his success and accomplishments. Two of his decathletes won Olympic medals-Jack Parker, a bronze in 1936, and Bruce Jenner, a gold on 1976. Winter Conditions Advisement; First Round. Gamet was also active in other campus activities by serving as business manager for the Acacia in 1929. He retired from TWA after 20 years of service. With his wife, Phyllis and sons, David and Mark, Barnet gave up a scholarship to the University of Kansas and retuned to Graceland, which had become a four-year institution. Phyllis currently works as the Faculty Athletics Representative to the NAIA, a job she began in 1988. He spent 25 years there before moving to Ottumwa Community Schools. Originally an 800 meter specialist, she was advised to participate in cross country to condition for track. And she accomplished the feat again in the 400 meter hurdles as well as becoming the national champion in the Long Jump and Heptathlon in 1990. Dr. Collins coached wrestling at Northwest Missouri State University from 1965-1970 and again from 1978 to 1985. return to top, Gerald E. "Jerry" Hampton received his A.A in 1952 from Graceland. Bravely facing those challenges, Thomas proved to be a standout high jumper and, at 17, won the AAU championship and appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show. Following his playing days, he spent two seasons as the men's varsity assistant coach for the Yellowjacket program. He also helped to supervise the renovation of the baseball, football, softball, and locker room facilities. Martin has been married to Nancy (Class of '79) for 34 years and they have two children, Rebecca and Tyler. Jenny currently serves as the head volleyball coach at Saint Mary's College in South Bend, Indiana. in Community Counseling from Adams State College, followed by a Ph.D in Counselor Education and Counsel from Idaho State University in 2001. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. Christel's relay teams also saw great successes in the '77 AIAW regionals. She graduated from Graceland College in 1965 with a degree in Physical Education and Biology. Welch retired in 1985, faculty emerita. Join our linker program. He earned four letters in baseball and football. She ended her collegiate career outdoors with new school records in the 3K and the 5K. The left-handed lead-off hitter extraordinaire was an on base machine for Graceland, pestering opponents with grinding plate appearances and then running with virtual impunity once between the sacks. Dava currently resides in Knoxville, Tenn. with her husband Jason, a former three-sport athlete at Graceland. He continues to serve as a corporate officer and was in 2005 given the Harold T. Friermood "Frier" Award, the highest honor given by the association. As of his graduation, Hutchins owned Graceland records in the 440 relay, 50-, 60-, 100-, and 220-yard dashes, as well as the indoor 330-yard and the 100 meter runs. Julie (Wendt) Carver earned honors in three sports as a Graceland athlete. in physical education from the University of Colorado, and from 1951 to 1958, taught physical education in elementary and secondary schools in the Midwest. As a member of the 1952 and 1953 Interstate Football Conference Champions, Parker was named to the All-Conference Team in both season and in 1953 was named to the Junior College All-American Team. return to top, Dennis Paul Thompson is a life-long resident of Lamoni and is currently the co-owner and manager of a local farm related business. From 1961-1969 he was head football coach at Westmar College where he compiled a 60-17-3 record. Dever continues to be successful athletically. Throughout his career, Seefeldt scored six defensive touchdowns. After a hiatus from softball her sophomore year, Dava finally made her way to Graceland University where she double-majored in Physical Education and Wellness Management while minoring in Health and Coaching. In 1983, he was inducted into the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Name: Andre Bird-Pierre Height: 6'4 Weight: 280 Position: DL College: Graceland University Twitter: @andrebirdpierre Criswell said that he feels Ross is the best candidate to rebuild the football program and develop a winning culture. Born and raised in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, Jenny Benda played every sport imaginable. return to top, Former Graceland athlete, Athletic Director and track and cross country coach, L.D. Soccer . He was also part of the celebrated Mineral Water Bowl team of the fall of 1975. Dudek and his wife Annie have two children, Major and Kaicen. Russell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration in 1982 from Graceland, and completed his M.B.A at Rockhurst College in 1991. Leading the team in triples, runs, hits, on base percentage, and stolen bases, Billy was team MVP, voted a unanimous 1st Team All-Conference selection, and was runner-up HAAC player of the year. Ross served as the head football coach at Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas from 2002 to 2003 and Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri from 2004 to 2016. Dan and Suzanne have three children, Kelle ('90), Mark ('92), Brian, and four grandchildren. She was also recognized during that campaign as District #15 Player of the Week and as a Russell Athletic All-American Second Team member. She continues to be an active member of the Riverton Kiwanis and Wyoming Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, having served on the Executive Board as the VP for Health and as the 1997 State Convention Manager. Gray currently resides in Grimes, Iowa with his wife Misty (Class of '93). He won numerous sales and performance awards and promotions with Exxon before returning to Idaho. One of the most outstanding performances was in the 1962 Graceland Relays. After graduating from high school, Alphie attended Indian Hills Community College where he had a decorated junior college career, receiving All-Conference and 1st team All-NJCAA accolades in his sophomore year. She placed 4th among all NAIA runners in the country - the highest ranking of a Graceland cross country athlete to date. Deciding to go to graduate school, Hutchins finally hung up his cleats for good in 1972. Patrick Ross is an American football coach. He formed "O-Line Limited", a charitable marketing firm and initiated the "Boomer's Body Guards" campaign to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He has two children, Kirt and Krisanne. He came to Graceland in 1982 and was a 4-year starter for the Yellowjackets as an offensive lineman. As a sophomore, he rushed for 444 yards on 73 carries and five touchdowns in conference play, earning a 6.1 yards per carry average. His greatest memory of high school sports is the undefeated season the basketball team had his freshman year under Coach Joe Kegler. In 1989, Wendi was the national champion is the 400 meter hurdles. Statistics Overall Conf; Games: 11 5 Scoring: 317 118 Points per game: 28.8 23.6 Total offense Her hobbies include serving as a coach with the United States of America Volleyball Junior program, managing the Louisville Volleyball Center, and volleyball camp director at Saint Mary's College. Ross will start the new position immediately, connecting with players and coaches by phone. return to top, Charlie Seefeldt was a remarkable defensive player for the Yellowjacket football team from 1980-1983. In her senior year, Wendi was an All-Conference selection as well as an All-District 15 selection. As a freshman she held the conference strikeout record and posted a 14-3 record as a pitcher. She has shared in their joys and their sorrows, guided many as they sought to balance their academic and athletic obligations, and may have occasionally administered a "get going kick" to students who needed additional motivation to stay on track to graduate. return to top. Seefeldt is best known around the football department for his game on September 18, 1982, when he had 17 tackles, nine take downs, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, two sacks and two knockdowns. QB; Senior; Illinois; Scouts Grade; Conference TBD; 2022 NCAA Football Stats. The lights went up thirty minutes before the first night game. Lewis, Ross and Monroe Earn 2022 Heart North Football All . Cochran was also named to the Kansas Wesleyan Hall of Fame. As a sophomore Syd led the team in tackles and was named first team All-District, and first team All-HAAC at linebacker. Jones bookended his Jacket career with a monster senior year where he hit .409 with 15 doubles, 6 home runs and 48 RBIs in a season that saw him make the All-Region 5 team and pick up a fourth All-Conference honor as well as earning Second Team All-American honors. As a four-year starter, the 5'5" point guard racked up impressive numbers in multiple categories and, by the time of her graduation, held 17 Graceland records in women's basketball. In football, during the 1983 season, he was ranked second in the country in interceptions. Linda Louise Rowe graduated from Graceland in 1976 with a B.A. Mr. Sherman served as a pilot for the U.S Navy and for TWA. In 2003, Davies received eight votes in the NBL 25th anniversary all-time team. During Syd's football career at Graceland he amassed 464 tackles, 6 interceptions, 3 fumbles recoveries, 10 forced fumbles, and 3 sacks. Graceland University retired Criswell's jersey, #69. Syd again anchored Graceland's defensive attack as a junior captain. Starring during the on-campus Spectacular festivities as well as in prep athletics, the 6'3" Warner possessed a unique athleticism that would pay off almost immediately after she first officially donned the navy and gold in 1997. Christel still holds the South Iowa Cedar League records in the 100 meter sprint and long jump, as well as the H-L-V high school records. in physical education from Northeast Missouri State University in 1972. He led the Yellowjackets in multiple pitching and offensive categories throughout his career. After two years, Tom moved on to Southern Utah University. Following her senior season, Neumann again earned first team All-Heart and all-district status, was named to the Eastern Iowa Team and was also named second team All-American. She received all-conference honors throughout high school and was highly recruited to play college softball. Although he played 3 games with the Indianapolis Colts in 1987, it was in 1988 that Jeff truly succeeded in his quest for the NFL. in Education, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Mathematics and Science. in Education, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Mathematics and Science. His 26 years of network television broadcasting includes the World Series, Super Bowl, NCAA Basketball and Track and Field Championships, AIAW Swimming and Diving Championships, Winter Olympics, the Major League All-Star Game, and many bowl games. He brought home district titles in 2000, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008. In 1967, he added a second major in physical education. She coached women's teams in field hockey, basketball, softball, tennis and track. Along with being an outstanding player, Dudek was consistently on the Dean's List and President's List at GU for his outstanding work in the classroom. He played for four different teams during his career, starting with the Launceston Casino City. She graduated from Graceland College in 1965 with a degree in Physical Education and Biology. return to top, Rich Harrop's collegiate athletic career started at Graceland in 1961. return to top. As a result of his performance as a baseball pitcher, he was recruited in both football and basketball under Coach Willie Gilbert. She Holds an M.S. In addition to his baseball exploits, Jones has worked in the grocery industry and maintained an active life in the community, becoming a pillar of his hometown of Baldur, Manitoba. He made an immediate impact on the football team as an outstanding run blocker and an even better pass blocker, eventually becoming a two time All-American. He has served as president of the Nebraska Section, has been delegate to the annual meetings of the PGA and has served on various professional gold committees. When Pam came to Graceland in 1977, her impact was immediate as a standout in basketball under Head Coach Jean McKinze. In addition, she has taken two trips to build homes with Habitat for Humanity, one in Alaska and one in Thailand. Harrop graduated from Graceland College in 1965 with a degree in physical education and health and a minor in biology. Stan has also been named State of Iowa Girls High School Basketball Coach of the Year numerous times. He has coached football, wrestling, track, tennis and golf and served as athletic director, chair of the division of health and education and coordinator of the department of physical education. In 1999 Hanton returned to Graceland as the Assistant Athletic Director and Head Women's basketball coach. He ran in four events for a total of three mile, winning the mile at 4:15.2 and anchoring three winning relay events. The Rebels were a Great Lakes powerhouse, and once again, sport took Verneda to new and exciting places. Both his junior and senior years, Seefeldt was recognized as the team's most valuable player. From 1966 to 1978, she served as coordinator of the Graceland department of health and physical education. While there, he was in charge of golf, swimming, archery, and boating facilities. After a strong showing at the national tournament, she was picked for the 1964 U.S. Olympic team, bound for Tokyo, Japan. Later, in the U.S. Army, he played football while stationed in Germany. To match all of Sydney's athletic accolades, he added class both off and on the field. Select College/Full Roster View: . Seefeldt was the Best Defensive Lineman on the District 15 Championship team, and was the Most Valuable Linebacker and a team captain for the squad his senior year. Harrop graduated from Graceland College in 1965 with a degree in physical education and health and a minor in biology. NFL Draft Diamonds has been bringing our readers Prospect Interviews over the past 3 years and this year we mixed up the questions and added some fun questions for our readers. Prior to attending Graceland, Kristy had never set foot on a cross country course or seen a state track meet. Douglas has also spent time as the head coach of baseball and girl's basketball at I-35 High School in Truro, Iowa. Historical Coaches: Don Shula, George Halas, Tom Landry, Curly Lambeau . return to top, Wendi (Simmons) Raatjes attended Graceland College from 1987 to 1991 where she enjoyed a very illustrious career in both volleyball and track and field. She continues to be an active member of the Riverton Kiwanis and Wyoming Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, having served on the Executive Board as the VP for Health and as the 1997 State Convention Manager. He later played professional baseball for three years with the St. Louis Organization. One season her "A" and "B" team earned a combined record of 40-0. Tom McCracken attended Graceland College from 1960 to 1964, excelling in three sports during that time. He finished his Graceland career as a two-time All-American, a three-time MAIVA Conference MVP, three-time MVP of major tournaments, and he served two seasons as a captain for the Yellowjackets. His four-year term includes the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. Thompson remained active with the Yellowjackets and was assistant offensive line coach from 1980-1982. return to top, Merle Harmon received his A.A. from Graceland in 1947, and his B.A. While there, he was in charge of golf, swimming, archery, and boating facilities. Douglas has also spent time as the head coach of baseball and girl's basketball at I-35 High School in Truro, Iowa. Jeff Douglas had an outstanding career both as an athlete and a coach at Graceland. "E" graduated in 1977 with a degree in health, physical education and recreation and a minor in social work. He formed "O-Line Limited", a charitable marketing firm and initiated the "Boomer's Body Guards" campaign to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. the Draft Scout Database is a CPC and Search Engine Magnet for All things . Graceland University retired Criswell's jersey, #69. return to top, The love of Clayton Henry's life aside from his family has been mathematics, baseball and basketball. Voted the "Most Athletic girl" in high school. Kenny Tripp, a Denver, Colorado, native, was not sure what he was getting himself into when he first arrived on Graceland's campus, but after graduating, Tripp has said it was the best decision he ever made. He returned to Graceland in 1960, after earning his B.A., M.S. Over the timespan of 2003-16, Hoffman was known to many as the football mom who boarded the bus with the players, coaches, athletic trainers, etc., on Saturday mornings to travel to away games. In 1998, he earned the Gold Medal in the 45-29 age division at the Kansas City Corporate Challenge. He was a starter on that team, helping them earn a runner-up finish at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) national championships and was named to the all-tournament team. Charlie's career began with the Outstanding Defensive Freshman Award, and ended in May of 1984 when "Chaz" was awarded the Graceland College Certificate of Athletic Achievement for Outstanding Performance in Football. His junior year, he averaged 23.7 points/game and 14 rebounds, shooting 57.0 percent from the floor. On the court, those honors include a two-time team leader in field goal percentage at 53% ('85-'86) and 49% ('86-'87), team-leading rebounder with 197 ('86-'87), team leader in steals with 49 ('86-'87), Most Improved Award ('86), Most Valuable Player Award ('87), All-Conference Award ('87) and selection as a Licking County League All-Star. He also directed the swim meet for Graceland Spectacular for 30 consecutive years." from the University of Northern Colorado, a M.S. The father of Georgia football player Devin Willock is seeking $2 million in damages from the Jan. 15 crash that . Weldon. MMA. Closson also developed a program that invited local high school girls to visit campus and participate with her classes in recreational activities, which turned out to be an effective recruiting tool for the college. Bruch's accolades began his junior year when he was an All-Heart of America Conference quarterback. return to top, John David Turner graduated from Graceland in 1964. As a junior, Hutchins rushed for 694 yards on 138 carries and six touchdowns. He influenced student-athletes to become a total person both on and off the competition field. The WRC sponsored intramural competitions and provided the opportunities for women to express their athletic talents and interests. Our reasoning for presenting offensive logos. As a Graceland student Jim Rae excelled in academics, varsity basketball and golf. As a member of the Graceland College mile relay team in 1959, he helped established a record of 3:21.9 that stood unbroken for 11 years. In her second year at Graceland, Pam combined her basketball quickness, keen eye at the plate and shot put strength to become a dominate player on the Graceland Field Hockey Team coached by Graceland Hall of Fame Coach Betty Welch. During his playing career, Peck was selected First-Team Heart-of-America All-Conference and was twice selected All-District, NAIA District 15. Mrs. Joyce and her husband, Tom, have one daughter, Alyssa. The Yellowjacket's welcomed someone of Allen's ability with open arms. return to top. A multi-sport athlete and outstanding football safety in high school, Hughes played defensive back during his first two years at Graceland and was coached by fellow Hall of Fame inductee Bill Dudek. He was All-HAAC first team, all-district and All-American. While at Graceland, Darrell excelled in both baseball and football for the Yellowjackets, lettering all four years in each sport. He earned 13 varsity letters in basketball, football, baseball and track. A right-handed, slugging catcher, Jones was a staple of the Jacket lineup, playing in 160 games in four years in Lamoni. He became involved in campus leadership, was a Tower sports reporter and the junior class president, and married his Graceland sweetheart, Suzanne Fisher ('64). An unprecedented seven time All-American in both indoor and outdoor track, Wendi was a four time NAIA National Champion. He has two children, Kirt and Krisanne. He played semi-pro football with the Iowa Nighthawks and the Colorado Nuggets, and worked out with the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Nowlin is committed to the idea at Graceland that emphasizes the importance of classroom performance before athletics. He was further honored his junior year by being selected Heart of America Conference Most Valuable Player and Honorable Mention NAIA All-American (Division II). He later went on to receive a masters degree in special education. When the spring season rolled around, Pam kept herself plenty occupied shuttling between the softball field where she played first base for coach Judy Sanken and the track where she threw the shot put. Mrs. Joyce and her husband, Tom, have one daughter, Alyssa. Since then he has established himself as a highly respected sports commentator, television personality, actor, producer, commercial spokesperson, auto racer, and as a dedicated supporter of organizations such as the Special Olympics and American Diabetes Association. Both teams won the Heart of America Conference Championships. [3] References ^ "Jeff Criswell". To this day, Benda has family and friends in the KC area and enjoys visiting them often. Governor of the Utah Idaho Kiwanis civic organization; a sought-after public speaker on civic affairs often quoted by the media; community representative on the Idaho Statesman editorial board; and a Municipal Bond Specialist underwriting Idaho local government tax exempt bonds for schools, cities, counties and other local government agencies for two decades. After a solid 1990 season where she picked up two player of the week awards and contributed to a Heart of America Athletic Conference championship, Wessel exploded in 1991. Jennie's accolades were numerous. His overall college coaching record is 94-52-5; his career record is 141-56-6. Gary won numerous medals as a member of relay teams anchored by Hall of Fame member Rich Simmons. Dever continues to be successful athletically.