MACOMB  — A momentous occasion took place at Western Illinois University on Friday night, as the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame welcomed a cohort of exceptional athletes and teams into its prestigious ranks. The ceremony, held at the Heritage Room in the University Union, honored the extraordinary achievements of individuals and teams whose legacies have left an unmistakable mark on WIU's athletic history.

"The evening, and actually the entire weekend, gave us the opportunity to celebrate so many great moments, and the people that made them happen," said Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb. "When we celebrate the history of this program, it is easy to look forward to more success in the future."

The event recognized and celebrated the incredible accomplishments of two outstanding teams and six remarkable individuals. The 1976-1977 Badminton Team included Laurie (Hoge) Meachum, Nancy (Stark) Shirley, Sandy Szopinski, Monica Malone, Wendy Justus, Cheryl Douglas, Debra Knight, Gail Ross-Thyer and Denise Zeman. The team was led by Coach Donna Phillips.

Similarly, the 1954-1955 Men's Basketball Team was a force to be reckoned with during their time and earned a well-deserved place in the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame. Team members include Lupe Rios, Gene Talbot, Marshall Stoner, Charles Schramm, Don Talbot, Ron Nikcevich, Ike Wright, Jim Thornton, Joe Reynolds, John Henson, Frank Hutt, Ed Flynn, Jim Hunter and Charles Behrends. The team was led by Coach Leroy 'Stix' Morley. 

Among the exceptional individuals inducted into the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame, their names etched into the annals of WIU's athletic history, are: Matt Barr (Football), Ceola Clark III (Men's Basketball), Tiffany Cornelius Tyler (Women's Basketball), Edgerton Hartwell (Football), Kyle Peterman (Men's Golf), and Tim Streng (Men's Golf). 

Those interested in reading more about the accomplishments that landed these teams and individuals in the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame can do so by clicking here. 

The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the extraordinary talent and dedication displayed by the inductees, leaving the more than 150 people in attendance in awe of the vast contributions these individuals and teams have made to WIU Athletics.

As the evening drew to a close, the aura of inspiration lingered—a celebration of excellence, commitment, and the enduring legacy of the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2023.