SALINAS, Calif, August 24, 2023— Hartnell Community College District is proud to announce the Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2023 to be inducted at a luncheon on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the college's main campus at 411 Central Avenue in Salinas, California. This will be the 10th annual event for the college.
"For the past nine years, we've been recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of
our athletes through this annual tradition. It's always an honor to welcome them back
to the campus where great life stories and accomplishments began," said Michael Gutierrez,
Hartnell College Superintendent/President.
Hartnell College has been producing student-athletes for over 85 years. These student-athletes have achieved success in athletics, the classroom, and life. The 2023 Athletics Hall of Fame inductees include ten individuals and three teams across four categories: Student-Athletes, Coaches, Volunteers, and Teams – all credited with having made an incredible impact on the school's history.
"At Hartnell, we are committed to honoring our athletes' achievements on and off the field. It's an important part of our culture," said Director of Athletics Dan Teresa.
The 2023 Athletics Hall of Fame inductees are:
Student-Athletes
Gerhard Kiessling, Swim and Water Polo (1977-78)
Carol Agamao, Softball (1993)
Chris Lybbert, Rodeo (1970)
Steve Ish, Men’s Basketball (1972-73)
Mike Ward, Track (1996-97)
James Brewster Thompson, Wrestling and Track (1973-74)
Coaches
Lloyd Higgins, Football (1981-1992) and Softball (1982 & 1991)
Joanne Trevino Siems, Support Staff (30+ years)
Volunteers
Dennis Lehnen, former KSBW Sports Anchor
George Watkins, former Sports Writer, The Californian
Teams
1958 Football
1981 Football
2005 Men’s Cross Country