Hall of Fame ceremony is walk down memory lane

Phoenix Hall of Fame induction ceremonies are often a nostalgic walk down memory lane. Such was the case Friday, Feb. 5 when inductees and their presenters shared their appreciation and a few great memories from their college playing careers. Former soccer player Eric Urben introduced his wife, softball player Debbie Kind Urben, sharing what a privilege it was to watch his high school sweetheart grow from a good pitcher to a college all-star. Former Phoenix women’s basketball player Chari Nordgaard said she hopes this can put an end to the question she has had to answer the most since college, “What’s Jeff up to?” Her answer included childhood tales of big brother Jeff being chief organizer of neighborhood games and contests, and she also referenced his successful pro career in both Europe and the United States, which ended just recently. Former Phoenix head women’s basketball Carol Hammerle recalled her suggestion to Rich and Pam Spangenberg that they help organize a booster club for Phoenix women’s athletics and, how 25 years later, their support never waned.

In the photo, the Spangenbergs pose with former women’s basketball players and coaches who were there to pay tribute. Front row, left to right: Sue Geiser Steeno, Chari Nordgaard Knueppel, Jeanne Barta Stangel, Pam and Rich Spangenberg, Candy Kaye, Vicki Anklam Porter, April Jensen Kocken. Top row, left to right: Sue Pitroski, Susie Klaubauf Bodilly, Sue Aspenson Sagal, Carol Hammerle, Kathy Mertz and Emily Bauer.

More photos will be posted on the UW-Green Bay alumnni site later this week.