Athletic Hall of Fame
Richie Jordan '65
HOF Class of 1999
Richie Jordan '65
Student Athlete 1961-1965
Richie Jordan was an All-American in basketball and football. He earned 16 Varsity Letters which being honored 4 times All-State in basketball and 3 times in football. He was named the 1965 Western Michigan Athlete of the year. He set several records, including career and season records in basketball. In 1999 Richie was nominated by the Michigan High School Athletic Association to the National High School Hall of Fame and was inducted in 2001. He is currently 1 of 8 athletes from the state of Michigan to be inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame.
Basketball - Averaged 44.4 points per game, with 888 points in 20 games his Senior year to raise his career total to 2,210 points. Career average of 31.1 points per game. He ended his career with a 60-point performance in the state regionals (a state record). Averaged 51.2 points his final two seasons in tournament play.
Football - Scored 25 touchdowns his Senior season. In 86 carries he averaged 14.5 years per carry with a career total of 5,132 yards and 47 touchdowns.
Track & Field - 3-time Conference and Regional Champion, helped his team win the Conference title and a third-place finish at the state meet, scoring all the team points.
Baseball - Batted a .550 his Senior year to help his baseball team win its 4th consecutive Conference Championship.
HOF Class of 2000
Sam Morehead
Coach 1959-1990
Coach Morehead coached 26 Varsity teams in his time at Fennville. He is the only coach in West Michigan's history to be named Holland Sentinel's All Area "Coach of the Year" in basketball, football, and baseball. He won this distinction not only once but twice in each sport.
Coach Morehead's basketball teams gave him a career record of 122 wins in Varsity Boys Basketball. During 13 seasons, his teams won 13 MHSAA state tournament games, including 2 conference championships, 3 district championships, and playing in 2 regional finals. The 1984-85 basketball team registered 20 wins in a single season.
Coach Morehead's football teams won 34 games, which include 3 league championships and 3 consecutive undefeated seasons. The Varsity baseball team won a total of 6 conference titles under his leadership. In 1957 he coached the first track team to participate in conference track meets and then recruited George Bruder to take over the FHS track program.
Coach Morehead holds the distinction of coaching in five decades, 50's through 90's.
About Fennville...Coach Morehead always said " Miracles still happen, this day and age it's true. I'll always give thanks to God, and Fennville, for all my years with you."
HOF Class of 2001
George Bruder
Coach 1961-1986
George began coaching track in 1961 after being recruited by, then coach, Sam Morehead. He enjoyed it so much that he began Fennville's Cross Country program in the fall knowing that he would need distance runners every spring. The first Cross Country meet he coached was the first he had ever seen. He expected each athlete to give his or her best regardless of the outcome of the race, a valuable lesson of life beyond the field of competition.
The fames "Fennville Cross Country Open" began in 1961 with just eight schools. It grew to be the largest Cross Country meet in Michigan, and perhaps the Midwest. George received the highest award in 1985, when he was honored by his peers receiving the coveted MITCA Kermit Ambrose Award.
His vision of excellence was seen numerous times in education beyond the coaching field as he brought computer technology into the classroom in the early 1980's. His legacy continues with the students that ran, jumped, and threw for him, as well as the stadium/track that is aptly named after him. Always a smile, with his arm around your shoulders, "Come run for me".
HOF Class of 2004
- Arthur Bowie '49
- John Damanskas '61
- Sue (Barnes) Martin '78
- Matt McMahon '86
- Larry Morse '53
- Jim Sexton '72
- Eric Wheeler '89
Arthur Bowie '49
Student Athlete 1945-1965
1949 Graduate Arthur Bowie says that athletics made him "a better man". Art participated in football, basketball, and baseball throughout his career as a Blackhawk. In basketball, Art made a free throw to put the Blackhawks into overtime to eventually win against an undefeated Hopkins team. Art was the first Lions Club Award winner, given to the best all-around male athlete. After graduation, Art had many try-outs and stints with professional baseball teams and earned semi-pro, all-state honors while playing for the South Haven Merchants.
John Damanskas '61
Student Athlete 1957-1961
1961 Graduate John Damanskas says, "Athletics showed him how to be a part of a successful team, which when functioning well can achieve a goal or honor". John participated in basketball, football and in 1960, became the first All-State Athlete in Fennville High School history. After graduation, John played football at Michigan State University for one year and later received his BS in Medical Technology. He then graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Detroit Dental School.
Sue (Barnes) Martin '78
Student Athlete 1974-1978
Coach 1986-2004
Sue Martin, a 1978 graduate, and the first female inductee into the FHS Athletic Hall of Fame, says, "Coaching and participating in sports at FHS has been very rewarding for me. Both have given me life-long memories". Sue participated in basketball and track during her Blackhawk career. In basketball, Sue was named All-Conference for three years, earned All-Area honors, and was 3rd team All-State. In track, Sue placed at regionals in the hurdles for three years. Sue also placed in the high jump for three years at both the regional and state meet. She was also conference champion in the high jump and hurdles and still holds the FHS school record in the high jump. After graduation, Sue played basketball for Central Michigan University for two years. After returning to Fennville, Sue coached Girls basketball and softball, winning the conference tournament championship in 2001.
Matt McMahon '86
Student Athlete 1982-1986
Football - 2 Varsity Letters, 1986 All-Conference, All-Area, Honorable Mention All-State
Basketball - 2 Varsity Letters, 1986 All-Conference, All-Area, All-State, Academic All-State
Baseball - 4 Varsity Letters, All-Conference ('84, '85, '86), MVP ('84, '85, '86), Batting Champion ('85, '86)
Baseball - College - Grand Valley State University - All-Gliac 1st Team ('89), All-Gliac Honorable Mention ('90), All-Academic Team ('90)
Larry Morse '53
Student Athlete 1949-1953
Coach 1960-2004
1953 graduate Larry Morse says, "Playing sports and coaching them gives a chance to share in team play and to see young people gain success while participating in athletics." Larry participated in football, basketball, and baseball during his FHS career. After graduation from FHS, Larry played three years of Varsity Baseball at Central Michigan University earning Most Valuable Player his senior year. Larry returned to FHS, where he started the Blackhawk wrestling program and coahced a wrestling team to a top 10 finish in state competition. He also coached FHS to it's first Regional Basketball victory. In baseball, Larry coached the Blackhawks to over 300 victories and the first District Baseball Championship.
Jim Sexton '72
Student Athlete 1968-1972
Coach 1978-1995
Only athlete in FHS history to earn 5 Varsity Letters in one school year.
Football - 2 Varsity Letters, A-O All-Conference End 1971
Basketball - 2 Varsity Letters, A-O All-Conference Guard 1972 2nd Team
Baseball - 4 Varsity Letters - A-O All Conference Shortstop 1972, Team MVP 1971, 1972
Cross Country - 1 Varsity Letter, A-O All-Conference & Regional 1st Place, All-State 1971 6th place finish, 3rd Place Team finish at State Meet
Track & Field - 1 Varsity Letter, A-O All-Conference Distance Events, Captured school records in (800m, 1600m, 3200m), 8th place finish in 3200m at State Meet
College - Cross Country - Albion College - 2 Varsity Letters
Coaching: 15 years Girls Varsity Basketball Coach, 15 years JV Boys Basketball Coach, 3 years JV Boys Baseball Coach
Eric Wheeler '89
Student Athlete 1985-1989
1989 graduate Eric Wheeler says, "Athletics will teach you to be the best you can be in life. The lessons learned in sports will give you confidence in yourself and position you to achieve whatever you want in your future endeavors." Eric earned 8 Varsity Letters in his Blackhawk career. He was selected All-conference, All-Area and Honorable Mention All-State his senior year in football. He was a two time state qualifier competing in the shot put and was the 1989 shot put Class C State Champion. He held the school and conference records in that event as well. After graduation, Eric went on to a superb football career at Olivet College where he earned Freshman of the Year honors and was a member of a conference championship team his junior year.
HOF Class of 2005
Frank Alfieri, IV '95
Student Athlete 1991-1995
"Athletics has affored me the opportunity to succeed as a college student-athlete as well as at the professional lever." 1995 graduate Frank Alfieri IV says. "It teaches you to develop a strong work ethis, team work and dedication; all of which you need to succeed, every day, in a professional environment. During his standout career at FHS, Frank was selected as the 1994-1995 West Michigan Athlete of the Year. Frank participated in football, basketball and baseball. He earned 1st Team All-State honors in football, basketball, and was the 1995 Michigan All-Star in baseball. After graduation, Frank went to a superb baseball career at Western Michigan University setting numerous career, season, and game records. Additional honors included: 1st Team All-Mac, Runner-up MAC Player of the Year, and 1st Team All Region. After college, Frank player professional Minor League baseball with the Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Nettuno Indians, and Canton Crocodiles.
Travis Cossey '88
Student Athlete 1984-1989
1988 graduate Travis Cossey has learned many life lessons by participating in athletics. "The values and lessons that are learned through participating in athletics teach you how to work within a group to achieve a common goal." Over the course of his Blackhawk career, Travis earned 9 Varsity Letters. Among his accomplishments, Travis earned All-Conference honors in football, basketball, and baseball. He also earned All-Area honors in football and basketball as well as 1st team All-State in football. After graduation, Travis went to Hope College and participated in football and basketball.
Janis (Morse) Howard '63
Student Athlete 1959-1963
Coach 1978-1990
1963 graduate Jan Howard says, "Whether you are teaching/coaching, accomplishing goals and seeing the end result is very rewarding. Participating in athletics will give you insights about what life is all about." Jan coached varsity softball and varsity cross country for 5 years. Before Fennville offered an inter-scholastic girls basketball program in the late 60's, Jan started a girls basketball program. After her coaching career, Jan served as a MSHAA basketball official for twenty plus years. Highlights of her officiating career include officiating the 1978 and 1979 state girls basketball tournament finals.
Tom Wolters '69
Student Athlete 1965-1969
1969 graduate Tom Wolters says, "Athletics will teach you two things. First, once you are involved in something - you stick with it until the end. Secondly, you give it your best shot and everything else will take care of itself." Tom earned 11 Varsity Letters in his Blackhawk career. During his career at FHS, Tom participated in basketball, track, football, and baseball. he was a member of the 1967 and 1968 district basketball championship teams. Tom was an All-Conference and two time All-State Honorable Mention in basketball. After graduation, Tom went on to a great basketball career at Hope College where he won 4 Varsity Letters, earned All-Conference Honorable Mention honors and was the team captain his senior year. After college, Tom taught and coached in Zeeland Public Schools from 1974-1999.
HOF Class of 2006
Gerald "Gus" Charles
Coach 1966-1985
Gus taught history and coached basketball, football and softball at FHS from 1966 to 1985. During this time, he encouraged his students in the classroom as well as on the athletic field. Gus felt that everyone deserved a chance to rise and shine. During tough economic times, the school did not have money for athletics. Gus valued athletics and did not want the students of Fennville to miss out on the opportunity, so he refused to be paid for coaching. His biggest thrill in athletics was seeing his players faces when they won the game they had practiced so hard for. He always refused to take credit for what his athletes accomplished. Gus was a positive role model for many students and athletes that walked the halls of FHS. Former student-athletes said, "Coach Charles was a wonderful role model for me during my impressionable years." Another student described Coach Charles as, "A person who left an imprint on the people who knew him."
Charlie Dickinson '49
Student Athlete 1945-1949
1949 graduate Charlie Dickinson says, "Sports has taught me to be a winner in life at whatever I have done, as well as kept me in good physical shape." Charlie earned 7 Varsity Letters in his Blackhawk career. During his career at FHS, Charlie participated in football, basketball, and baseball. During his senior year, Charlie led Southwest Michigan in basketball scoring with an average of 19.9 points per game, none of which were 3 point shots. After graduating from Fennville, Charlie played basketball at Iowa Wesleyan. He later sponsored and managed a Minor League baseball team. Charlie's most heartwarming contribution to sports has been giving basketballs, footballs, and soccer balls to students (K-8) in local schools. He is a strong supporter of youth sports and believes that sports will keep students out of trouble as well as keep them away from diseases such as obesity.
Donnie - Jim Dickinson '62
Student Athlete 1958-1962
FHS graduate Don Dickinson said, "Coaching and playing sports has meant a life full of positive and strengthening relationships." Over the course of his Blackhawk career, Don earned 9 Varsity Letters. Don participated in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, and track. He was the 1962 FHS Lions Club Award recipient. After graduation, Don went on to a great baseball and basketball career at Principia College in Illinois, including All-Conference Honors in both sports. In 1968, Don was named head baseball and basketball coach at Principia College. He was named NAIA Coach of the Year for the State of Illinois in 1972. Additional coaching stops included positions at Hope College (1977, tennis) and Grand Valley State University (1980-81, tennis). In 1982, Don began coaching tennis at resorts and academies throughout the United States. During this time he had the opportunity to coach the 1993 Men's French Open Doubles Champions Luke & Murphy Jensen. In 1990 he founded the Copper Bowl Junior Tennis Tournament in Tucson, Arizona. In 2003, Don was named #29 in Arizona Daily Star's Annual List of Top 100 Sports Figures in Arizona. Although he has moved away from Fennville, Don said, "I've been a Blackhawk my whole life."
Jeremy Heavilin '95
Student Athlete 1991-1995
FHS graduate Jeremy Heavilin said, "Sports provided me with an opportunity to grow as a person. Sports instilled many attributes that have aided my life; self discipline, work ethic and the value of TEAM when face with competition and adversity." Over the course of his Blackhawk career, Jeremy earned 8 Varsity Letters. During his senior year in football, Jeremy was named to the following teams: 1st Team All-State Detroit News, 1st Team All-Conference SAC, 1st Team Holland Sentinel, and 1st Team Allegan County. He tied the State record for receiving touchdowns in the regular season with 15. Jeremy also received All-Conference honors in basketball and baseball. After graduation, Jeremy played football at Hope College. He is currently teaching in the West Ottawa Public School system.
HOF Class of 2007
Chuck Green '65
Student Athlete 1961-1965
1965 graduate Chuck Green says, "Participating in sports has given him many life long friendships." Chuck participated in baseball, basketball, football and track. Over the course of his Blackhawk career, Chuck earned 14 Varsity Letters. Among his accomplishments, Chuck earned All-Conference honors is football and track. He also earned All-State Honorable Mention honors in football. In track, Chuck was a two time league champion in both the 100 and 200 yard dash. He was a member of two league football championships, three league track championships and four league baseball championships. After graduation, Chuck was actively involved in coaching and officiating.
Amber (Ranney) Craddock '99
Student Athlete 1995-1999
1999 graduate Amber Craddock has learned many life lessons by participating in athletics. "Athletics teaches you to test yourself, learn from your mistakes and most importantly to support and encourage others." Amber participated in basketball and track during her Blackhawk career. She excelled in track by qualifying and placing at the State meet all four years (1996 - 400m 3rd place, 1997 - 400m 8th place and 200m 4th place, 1998 - 400m 1st place and 200m 2nd place, 1999 - 400m 2nd place and 200m 7th place). She also earned Academic All-State Honors in 1997 as well as Detroit Free Press Scholar-Athlete in 1999. After graduation, Amber attended Albion College.
HOF Class of 2008
Bill Barron '67
Student Athlete 1963-1967
FHS graduate Bill Barron said, "Athletics has given me life long friends and taught me to hold nothing back - play every game like it was your last." Over the course of his Blackhawk career, Bill earned 10 Varsity Letters. Bill participated in cross country, basketball and track. He was a member of the 1965 and 1967 Class C District Basketball Championship Teams and the 1964 Regional Cross Country Championship Team. He was also nominated to the Basketball All-State Honorable Mention Team in 1966 and 1967. After graduating in the top 10 of his class he was a sponsored competitive windsurfer from 1993-1996.
Stan Alexander
Community Member at Large
Stan moved to Fennville and established Alexander's Drug Store in 1965. During his time in Fennville, Stan was a strong supporter and made significant contributions to Fennville Athletic Programs.
He served as an official starter for track and cross country for over 20 years and was given a plaque by the MHSAA for his dedication. A soda fountain was located in the drugstore and he would give free sundaes to all team members when they won a game.
Stan gave the greatest effort and stood firm in his determination toward Blackhawk Athletics and the needs of the program. He always supported and promoted school board issues and was the driving force behind building George Bruder Memorial Field as well as supporting the installation of the first electronic scoreboard on the football field. He was a True Blackhawk and FPS man.
HOF Class of 2009
Ray Feher
Coach 1959-1968
Ray Feher coached basketball and baseball at FHS as well as served as Athletic Director. Coach Feher and his wonderful wife Joyce are legends in the minds of the students who attended FHS in the 60's. During his tenure as a coach, his basketball teams won three District Championships. One of these phenomenal wins was against Bangor, the defending State Champions. Under his leadership as Athletic Director, Fennville won championships in basketball, baseball, football and track. Coach Feher stated, "Sports is all about the students, not the coaches. Coaches are to steer them in the right direction." Coach Feher had the opportunity to coach and provide guidance to two outstanding athletes - Richie Jordan and his son Butch Feher, who played college basketball at Vanderbilt and continued his basketball career playing with the Phoenix Suns in the NBA.
HOF Class of 2011
Joe Cossey '85
Student Athlete 1981-1985
A 1985 graduate of FHS, Joe Cossey states, "Playing high school athletics taught me hard work, teamwork, trust, discipline, desire and fortitude; all have helped me to become a successful adult." During his Blackhawk career, Joe earned a total of 8 Varsity Letters. Among his accomplishments, Joe had a .497 batting average his junior year, rushed for 1227 yards his senior year, and earned All-State Honorable Mention Honors in football. After graduation, Joe went on to play football at Hope College, receiving an Offensive MVP award and catching the game tying touchdown that put Hope College into he playoffs for the first time in school history. After college, Joe served as the varsity assistant football coach at Fennville High School, South Haven High School, West Ottawa High School and Muskegon High School, coaching at the latter when they won the State Championships in 2004, 2006 and 2008. Joe's commitment to sports and education is clearly evident given his years of dedication.
Everett Barnes '48
Student Athlete 1943-1948
Participating in athletics meant everything to 1948 graduate Everett Barnes. "I wanted to be the best that I could be, so as a young boy I remember tossing the baseball on the roof and the house to practice catching." During his Blackhawk career, Everett participated in football, basketball and baseball, earning a total of 12 Varsity Letters. Among his accomplishments, Everett had over a .400 career batting average during four years of varsity baseball. His biggest would-be thrill turned out to be a disappointment as well as a life lesson. Everett recalls going undefeated in football with the last game of the year. The team believed they had already won the game in the locker room, but lost the game on the field to Martin, 6-0. After graduation, Everett tried out for the Chicago Cubs and was offered a Minor League contract; however, he decided to return home to make more money at Michigan Fruit Canners for the family. Once he returned to Fennville, he played shortstop and second base for the South Haven Merchants. Everett continues to make sports a part of his life and is a vital member of the Fennville community.
HOF Class of 2012
Wes Leonard
Student Athlete 2008-2011
Wes was one of the most dedicated and beloved athletes in Fennville's proud athletic history. During his three-year Blackhawk career, Wes earned 7 Varsity Letters and numerous accolades while leading his teams to conference and district championships.
In football Wes was named to the SAC All-Conference teams a combined 5 times on offense and defense. Following his junior year (2010), Wes was named AP Honorable Mention All State for a season in which he passed for 2,590 yards and accounted for 40 total touchdowns (33 passing and 7 rushing) in eight games. That season Wes also set MHSAA records for touchdown passes in a game (7) and for touchdown passes in a half (6).
In basketball Wes earned SAC All Conference honors three times and was named AP Honorable All State as a sophomore (2010). In 2011, Wes' junior season, he earned First Team All State honors from both the Associated Press and the Detroit Free Press. Wes accumulated 1,146 career points and was a member of the 2010-2011 undefeated (20-0) regular season team - the first such team in school history.
His athletic prowess and passion for competition made him one of the greatest athletes ever to wear a Blackhawk uniform. Wes' ready smile and caring personality made him a fan favorite and brought people together. Through is life and athletic career were tragically cut short, his legacy will live forever in the hearts of those who knew him.
HOF Class of 2014
Brandon Schipper '02
Student Athlete 1998-2002
A 2002 graduate of FHS, Brandon Schipper states, "High school athletics were a very important part of my growth and maturation as a young man. They taught me the importance of setting personal goals and trying your best to achieve those goals and not wanting to settle for average. I think it's very important to have both individual and team successes as a student. Whether those successes are winning races, nailing a game winning hoop, hitting a home run or just doing something better than you did the time before, it's very important to feel good about yourself and to have other people show you encouragement and praise. The feeling of accomplishment is one of the best things a young person can have. Of course it's important to be active and strive for a healthy lifestyle, but I think athletics can help a student grow as a person in ways that cannot be measured on a scale."
During his Blackhawk career, Brandon ran cross country for three years. Brandon earned All-Conference and All-County honors along with qualifying for the state meet every year. Brandon was All-State cross country his senior year with a personal best time of 16:05. Brandon also ran track for four years and was All-Conference and All-County his junior and senior years. The mile was his best event earning him the title of SAC and Allegan County champion his senior year. Brandon's best mile time was 4:32.04, a school record.
Gordy Alderink '72
Student Athlete 1968-1972
Coach
"As an athlete I thrived on competition, as much with myself as with other athletes. I learned from coaches, but learned as much if not more by directing my own learning of the game and practicing. I learned to always do my best and always give credit to my opponents for their effort, even if I lost. I began coaching when it was no longer practical to keep competing and I coach for the same reasons I played - I like the physical and mental challenges. Over the years, I have learned a lot, positive and negative, of things about myself and others; and I have grown as a result. Sport helped me learn what excellence is, and what it takes to achieve it; and this has also informed my other labors - being a husband, father and teacher."
"To play a sport and coach was my birthright, my calling, and it still is. I have been fortunate to be part of several championship caliber teams both is high school and college, but my biggest thrill came in 2003 when the baseball team at GVSU made it to the NCAA Division II Championship baseball tournament for the first of three appearances in succession."
"I am forever indebted to the coaches who were great models for me, including Gus Charles, Tom Pelon, Gary Frens, George Bruder, Sam Morehead, Wayne McWee, and (my favorite) Larry Morse."
HOF Class of 2016
Luke McFarland '06
Student Athlete 2002-2006
Luke McFarland graduated from FHS in 2006 after establishing himself as one of the all-time greats in Blackhawk athletics. He was an All-State and All-Area football standout for the Blackhawks, recognized by the Holland Sentinel as a Dream Team member in both football and basketball. He was MVP and Team Captain during his senior year and in his final season of Blackhawk basketball he was ranked fourth in the state for three-point shooting.
McFarland's biggest thrill as a Blackhawk came during the regional semifinal football game against Mendon in 2005. Having just returned from a long injury, McFarland played wide receiver instead of his regular running back position, to protect his injured shoulder. He had eleven catches during the game, including a crowd-thrilling 55-yard touchdown catch thrown by Tyler Sessions. He remembers feeling on top of the world listening to the roar of the Blackhawk crowd.
McFarland said he will always remember playing for his hometown of Fennville. "The friendships and family feel of athletics is something that is hard to find anywhere else." he said. "Participating in sports teaches you more life lessons than you realize at the time. It teaches you how to be a part of something bigger, how to work as a team to achieve a greater goal, and how to master your own athleticism." McFarland encourages each student athlete who wears the Blackhawk uniform to always keep moving forward towards the goals they've set, and to work hard to live a balanced life.
Tim Schipper
Coach 1986-2012
Tim Schipper was a FHS teacher and coach for twenty-six years. As a football coach he recorded a 123-95 career record and was named an Associated Press 2010 Michigan Coach of the Year. His teams qualified for the state playoffs seven times and won a district title in 2004. Coach Schipper's teams won numerous conference titles and he coached numerous All-State and All-Conference players. Former players refer to Coach Schipper as a great coach, but also a man of great integrity, sincerity, and humility.
Coach Schipper remembers many thrilling moments of the sidelines and considers himself lucky to have worked and coached in Fennville. "I've been very fortunate to have so many thrills, both personally and professionally." he said. "I had the good fortune of coaching many outstanding student-athletes and great kids, all of whom contributed to great wins and happy moments, but often it was watching an average player work hard and perform at levels far above his expectations that made coaching the best job in the world. Coaching is just teaching students to work hard reach their potential and that hard work pays off."
Coach Schipper reminds Blackhawks that athletics is a place where students can learn things they will not learn in the academic part of school. "Athletics teaches you to get back up when you are tired and hurting, both physically and mentally. In the athletic program, students get to experience the thrill of competition and the joy that comes from belonging to a team." He says it is one of his biggest rewards to see former players who have now entered the real work, knowing that the skills and experiences they learned in athletics have a great deal to do with their lasting success.
David Turner '60
Student Athlete 1956-1960
During his athletic career at FHS, 1960 graduate David Turner won 1st Team All-Conference honors in four sports: football, basketball, baseball, and track. Turner also held school and conference records in the 220-yard dash, and a regional record in the broad jump. David was a member of the Blackhawk football team that won 28 straight regular season games, never losing a regular season game during his high school playing career.
After graduation David joined the navy and had the thrill of playing baseball while in Hawaii.
Turner enjoyed passing on his knowledge to his grandkids, including many lessons he learned as a Fennville Blackhawk. "Participating in athletics prepared me for life in the real world." Turner said. "I was able to build long-lasting friendships, learn how to win and lose with class, and to always have respect for others."
HOF Class of 2018
Kelly McCrary '82
Student Athlete 1978-1982
Lettered in football, basketball, and track & field
Athletic Honors: 1981 All State Track & Field, 1982 Football MVP, 1982 Allegan Ottawa Conference Team, 1982 All Area Holland Sentinel Football Team, 1982 Track & Field MVP, Allegan Ottawa Conference Team in 1980,81,82. 1982 All Area Holland Sentinel Team, Received the Fennville Pullman Athlete Award 1982.
Career highlights: 1980 Track & Field school record 440 dash 51.3, 1981 Track & Field record 4x440 relay - anchor 44.9, 1981 Track & Field 7 records broken. 1981 440 dash State Runner Up.
Biggest thrill in athletics "Being part of a team that respected and trusted their teammates and being part of a team that worked hard but at times know how to have fun."
Tony Schut '67
Student Athlete 1963-1967
Coach 2001-2013
Lettered in Football, Baseball, Basketball and Track & Field
Athletic Honors: Lions Club Award, MVP in football, Honorable Mention All-State Full Back and Inside Linebacker, State Qualifier 800 Track & Field, Golden Gloves Champion as well.
Career Highlights: Playing and competing with the athletes of the 1965 class who dominated. Football, baseball, basketball and track & field for 4 years. Coming up to varsity ball as a sophomore to play in undefeated seasons starting full back. Received a letter from Miami of Ohio College to try out for the football team. Was a Golden Gloves light heavy weight champion state qualifier in 1968.
Post-Graduation Achievements: Coached Varsity Track 2001-2001, volunteered 2011-2013. Coached 4 school records: Brandon Schipper 1600m, Joseph Schut discus, Leo Banaszack 100m, 1600m relay - Joseph Schut, Leo Banaszak, Matt Helser and Marc Murphy. Has worked for FPS and prepared the football field that we use for pictures and which was also entered in a State Turf competition and came in second to Detroit only because of the other use (soccer) the field endured.
"I thank God for the gift of being an athlete. Participating in whatever sport I was in was just a desire to compete and enjoy the common bond we had as classmates and teammates.
Shelly (Polk) Plugis '96
Student Athlete 1992-1996
Lettered in Volleyball, Basketball and Track & Field
Athletic Honors: 1993-1996 Track & Field State Qualifier, All-Conference, All-Area, All-Region, MVP. 1996 Basketball All-Conference, All-Area, Honorable Mention All-State. 1996 Volleyball All-Conference, All-Area.
Career Highlights: Scored 29 points in a basketball game, Hold the school record in track for: Shuttle Hurdle Relay, 100m. Was a member of the 1994 SAC Championship team.
Post Graduation Achievements: Received a basketball scholarship to KVCC where she played one year of college basketball.
Travis Martin '05
Student Athlete 2001-2005
Lettered in Football (3), Basketball (3), Baseball (2), Track (4)
Athletic Honors: Football All-Conference 3 years, All-Area Team 2 years: GR Press, Holland Sentinel & Allegan Gazette, Team Captain & MVP 2003. Basketball 1st Team All-Conference 2005. Baseball All-Conference 2005. Track MVP 2005, State Qualifier High Jump.
Career Highlights: Captain of football team that won the first playoff game in school history. Received Lion's Club Award 2005. Graduated with Honors (3rd in class) and NHS Member.
Post Graduation Achievements: Alma College Football (lettered 2005-2008), Alma's Defensive Player of the Year 2007-2008, MIAA Honor Roll Athletes 2007-2008, Second Team All-Conference 2008.
"Playing sports at Fennville has shaped me into the person I am today. I had the chance to develop lifelong friendships with my teammates and coaches, whom I still count on and cherish to this day. Being an athlete helps instill discipline, builds character, teaches you to push yourself through adversity and shows you what you are actually capable of accomplishing with hard work. Being an athlete will help set you up to succeed in every aspect of life."
HOF Class of 2020
Todd Onken '93
Student Athlete 1989-1993
Lettered in Basketball (4 years), Track & Field (4 years) and Cross Country (1 year)
Athletic Honors: Basketball - SAC 1st Team '91 - '93, AP All State Honorable Mention '91 - '92. News and Free Press 4th Team Class C All-State. In addition Todd scored 1,000+ points and left Fennville as the 3rd all-time leading scorer. MVP '92-'93. Track & Field - All-SAC 1st Team '93, All-State finalist in track for hurdles '93.
Career Highlights: 2 District Championships in Basketball '92, '93 and a SAC Championship '93.
Post Graduation Achievements: Has been involved with coaching at various levels in Fennville and youth programs in Florida.
Biggest thrill in athletics: "I had many thrills but the one that sticks the most was in 1993 during a barn burner against Saugatuck. I downed a 3-point shot from the far corner with an assist from Bo Rodriguez to cap off the game. I thank God for the gift of being an athlete. Participating in whatever sport I was in was just a desire to compete and enjoy the common bond we had as classmates and teammates. I owe my success at FHS to my parents for their support and praise, as well as to the coaches and staff who saw something a little bit special and pushed me to be better."
Bonifacio "Barney" Rodriguez '93
Student Athlete 1989-1993
Lettered in Cross Country (4 years), Basketball (3 years), Track (4 years)
Athletic Achievements: Cross Country 1992 All-State Honorable Mention, 3 time All-Area. Basketball 1993 All-State Honorable Mention by the Detroit News, the Detroit Free Press and AP, 2 time All-SAC and 2 time All-Area. Track 3 time All-Region Team, 8 SAC Championships and 2 school records.
Career Highlights: 2 District titles in Basketball '92 & '93. Conference Championship 1992.
Post Graduation Achievements: Played one year of basketball at Kalamazoo College and one year of Cross Country at WMU. Was on the University of Kentucky Basketball staff under John Calipari from 2010-2014. University of Kentucky were National Champions in 2012.
Biggest thrill in athletics: "Talking our way into the fast heat at the Regional Track meet in the 4x400m Relay and winning. Receiving the baton in f1st place and handing it off to one of my best friends, Todd Onken.
"I looked a participating in Athletics as a privilege and honor. I tried to represent my hometown, its people, and those that passed the torch with class, respect, and success. We wanted to leave the program better than we found it with more trophies, higher standards, and the expectation of winning at a high level."
HOF Class of 2022
Elaine (Hunter) Figures '84
Student Athlete 1980-1984
Lettered in Basketball (4 years) and Track & Field (4 years)
Athletic Honors: Basketball - Class C Honorable Mention All-State '83, MVP '83, A-O Conference Champions '83
Career Highlights: Led the Blackhawks in scoring and rebounding throughout her 4 year career in basketball. Finished with 825 career points and 1011 career rebounds (school record). Averaged a double-double senior season with 14.4 pts and 16.3 boards per game, with a shooting percentage of 43%. Helped to lead the Blackhawks to a best 18-3 record in 1983, which included a 14 game winning streak.
Biggest thrill in athletics: Defeating a state ranked Saugatuck squad that was previously undefeated, with a 21 point and a 25 rebound performance. The 51-41 victory propelled the team to their next victory over a very talented Paw Paw squad.
"Participating in athletics taught me the value of teamwork. When you spend all those hours with your teammates you bond and as a result are lifelong friends."
Gustavo "Beny" Martinez '73
Student Athlete 1970-1973
Lettered in Wrestling (4 years) and Track & Field (4 years)
Athletic Honors: Wrestling MVP and Team Captain '73, Most Improved Player '71
Career Highlights: Wrestling 1971 State Qualifier, seeded first at Regional Tournament, 1973 State Qualifier, seeded first at Regional Tournament, Undefeated personal record '72 & '73, Undefeated Team record '73. Track 1973 State Qualifier 880 Relay.
Athletic Contributions after High School: coached little league baseball '86-'94, assisted with Middle School wrestling '08-'09, HS Wrestling '10-'12, sports photographer.
Biggest thrill in athletics: "Going to state competitions in both wrestling and track. And when I had children of my own, I would follow them everywhere to watch them play - win or lose. Now my sons are coaching my grandkids and doing the same thing. From generation to generation - my family legacy."
"Participating in athletics helps you to stay out of trouble, learn respect for coaches and others, and to have fun. An important part of athletics is learning to lose. As an athlete, it made me practice harder and be committed to my team. As a coach, you have to continue to teach the athletes, win or lose. My coaches, Mr. Frens and Mr. Bruder, taught me that. As a parent and grandparent, you are making a commitment to support your children/grandchildren. Thanks to Coach and Mrs. Morehead for their inspirational words: God First, Others Second, Self Third."
HOF Class of 2024
Lowell Winne, Jr '84
Student Athlete 1980-1984
Coach 1995-2004
Athletics participated in: Football (4 years), Track (3 years), Basketball (4 years)
Athletic contributions after High School: Coached football at Fennville 1995-2004, Served on the Fennville School Board 1998-2005, Presided over the Alumni Association Board 1992-Present, Officiating football/basketball since 1984 (Registered with the MHSAA 1986), President for Southwest Michigan Officials Association (2000-present), Secretary for West Michigan Officials Association (2015-present).
Career Highlights: Athletics led him to becoming a lifelong sports official. Officiated his first post season game in 1992 for Boys Basketball Districts. Since then, as of April 2024 he has officiated 111 post season games between basketball and football. Out of those, 35 were Regional, Quarter Finals, Semifinals, and 3 Final games. He has been fortunate to referee in some of the biggest sports venues in Michigan, including Ford Field, Breslin Center, and U of M Stadium. Lowell was both an athlete and a coach for FHS. As an athlete he was coached by legends such as Sam Morehead, George Bruder, Gus Charles, Jim Sexton, and Larry Morse, all of whom are fellow Hall of Fame inductees. As a new coach he learned and studied from mentors who taught him patience, how to be an effective coach, and reminded him to have fun along the way. He attributes these coaches, both those who coached him, and those whom he coached alongside, to helping to mold him into the person he is today. He believes athletics teaches you self-discipline and the power of teamwork. Setting goals and accomplishing those goals leads to positive self-worth.
Biggest thrill in athletics: Refereeing at Ford Field, Breslin Center, and U of M Stadium. Next to that, coaching his son, Chaz, at the varsity level for 3 years and then being privileged to coach Wes Leonard and all the great athletes who surrounded him. Coaching both teams gives him immense joy knowing he was a small part of their lives like his coaches were.
You, as a community member are entitled to nominate a past Fennville High School athlete, coach (retired from teaching), or a community member (at large) that you feel is deserving of this honor.
Nominations by the community will be accepted by February 1st in Odd Years, and voting will be done by the Athletic Hall of Fame Members by March 15th. New members will be inducted during a Home Varsity Basketball game in the following Even Year.
Nomination Criteria
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The nominee, during and/or following their career, must have exemplified the pride and spirit that represents Fennville Athletics.
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If an athlete, they must be a FHS graduate and have been out of school for at least 10 years.
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If a coach, they must have coached at FPS for at least 10 years.
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If an at-large nominee, they must have made significant contributions to the Fennville Athletic program.
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Any student-athlete that received All-State Honors (1st Team AP or Places at a State Meet) will be an automatic qualifier after being out of school for 10 years. *Proof of Honors must be presented.
Nomination and Voting Process
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The Athletic Director will set a pre-determined number of members to be inducted.
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Once the number of potential inductees is determined, a ballot will be sent to all current Athletic Hall of Fame Members to vote.
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Once the ballots are collected and tabulated, the top nominees will be offered a spot into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Potential inductees must approve themselves being inducted.