Nov. 10, 2005

From the formative days of Army's long-standing athletic program, through the national dominance of the Black Knights' grid teams to latter-day successes along a diverse spectrum of sports, the 14 members of the Army Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2005 have woven their names throughout the fabric of the Academy's rich intercollegiate athletic history.

Last night, at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, the Class of 2005 was officially inducted at a "black-tie" event. The evening was a rousing success and a firm reminder of the proud history and tradition of Army athletics, which spans more than 115 years. Though the festivities kicked off last night in the Big Apple, they continue today with a host of activities intended to further honor the 14 inductees and commemorate their spectacular achievements.

Comprising just the second class to be enshrined in the Army Sports Hall of Fame, this 14-person group encompasses 14 sports and includes 11 athletes, a pair of coaches and one player-coach. The inductees, who combined to earn 16 All-America certificates and set 45 Academy records, coached or played during 10 different decades.

Three members of the class served as the initial head coach of their respective programs, while two coaches each became the winningest mentors in a pair of Army sports. Three class members have been enshrined in four other halls of fame, while one was an Olympian and another won the Outland Trophy.

The Class of 2005 includes: Dan Browne (track and field/cross country), Joe Casey (men's soccer), Doug Kenna (football/men's basketball/men's tennis), Deann Machlan (volleyball), Steve Marshall (gymnastics), Mike Mayweather (football), Dennis Michie (football player/football coach), Leo Novak (track and field/cross country/men's basketball coach), Pam Pearson (women's basketball/track and field), Holly Pedley (women's soccer), Dave Rost (hockey), Joe Steffy (football), Eric Tipton (baseball/sprint football coach), Gary Winton (men's basketball player/softball coach).

"For the second year in a row, the Army Sports Hall of Fame will induct an impressive group," stated Army Athletic Director Kevin Anderson. "The combined resume of these 14 individuals reflects athletic achievement at the highest level across a broad spectrum of sports. Many, many athletes and coaches have helped shape the Academy's storied athletic legacy, dating back to the 1890s, and to be singled out of that extensive list for inclusion into the Army Sports Hall of Fame is certainly a most prestigious and impressive honor.

"After participating in this process for the first time this past spring, I was impressed by the professionalism, dedication, attention to detail and passion demonstrated by all involved, particularly those folks on the selection committee," Anderson added. "In addition, the members of the USMA Athletic Committee, as well as Superintendent Lt. General William J. Lennox, have once again been vital components in the selection process by providing pinpoint leadership and guidance as we continue striving to ensure that the Army Sports Hall of Fame truly represents all corners of our long-standing and rich athletic tradition."

The induction of this year's class brings to 30 the number of athletes presently enshrined in the Army Sports Hall of Fame. To date, 15 of the Academy's 25 intercollegiate sports are represented in the hall.

In conjunction with this weekend's induction ceremonies, the Kenna Hall of Army Sports is enjoying its grand opening. Located on the third floor of the Kimsey Athletic Center, the Kenna Hall of Army Sports is a comprehensive museum display of Army's proud intercollegiate athletic program.

The museum contains panels chronicling the history and tradition of Army's 25 intercollegiate programs, along with the school's 23 club sports and five varsity sports of yesteryear. Panels also trace the history of Army football through each era, highlighting significant accomplishments, recognizing outstanding games and detailing Army's traditional rivalries with Notre Dame, Air Force and Navy.

Other displays identify recent highlights in Army athletics, listing NCAA participants, All-Americans, league champions, player of the year and coach of the year award winners from the past academic season. The Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center, located in the East Gallery, pays tribute to the brand new state-of-the-art facility completed in the spring of 2005.

Punctuating the West Gallery is a panel dedicated to the athletes who have represented West Point at the Olympic Games. A total of 85 Olympic athletes in 14 sports have participated in 17 Olympic games since the modern Olympics were first held in 1896.

The Blaik Gallery, leading into the Army football offices, is a must-see for all Black Knight fans and the final piece of the Kenna Hall of Army Sports museum. The gallery is a tribute to Army's most successful football coach, Earl "Red" Blaik. The Blaik Gallery covers the legendary mentor's career as both a cadet-athlete at the United States Military Academy and his football head coaching career.

In addition, a showcase highlighting the 14 inductees will be on display in the Kenna Hall of Army Sports gallery. Memorabilia from the Class of 2005 compliments the panel display commemorating the accomplishments and careers of this year's former cadet-athletes.