Celebrating Excellence: The 2024 Edmonds-Woodway High School Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
On a vibrant Wednesday evening, the Great Hall of Edmonds-Woodway High School (EWHS) was filled with excitement and nostalgia as over 200 athletes, coaches, teachers, and community supporters gathered to honor the 2024 inductees into the Edmonds-Woodway Athletic Hall of Fame. This annual gala not only celebrates individual achievements but also reinforces the strong sense of community that has flourished around the school’s athletic programs for decades.
A Night of Recognition
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Tyler Geving, the EWHS Athletic Director, who expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming turnout and the unwavering support from the community. Geving, now in his fourth year at the school, highlighted the importance of such gatherings in fostering a spirit of camaraderie among current and former students. He then passed the microphone to Angie McGuire, the Edmonds School District Athletic Director and Hall of Fame committee chair.
McGuire set a welcoming tone for the evening, emphasizing that every current and past student is part of a larger family, regardless of which high school they attended before the merger in 1990. Her heartfelt thanks extended to those who traveled from afar to celebrate the achievements of the inductees, as well as to the Hall of Fame committee and the Edmonds Booster Club for their contributions. A special acknowledgment was given to Caffe Ladro, which provided food and beverages for the event, showcasing the community’s collaborative spirit.
Honoring the Past and Present
As the evening unfolded, McGuire shared a touching backstory about the inception of the Hall of Fame. She reminisced about a coffee meeting in 2012 with Jennifer Eklund, then president of the E-W Booster Club, where they discussed the importance of preserving the history of both Edmonds and Woodway high schools. Their shared passion led to the establishment of the Hall of Fame in 2015, modeled after successful programs at other schools, such as Stanwood High School.
The mission of the Edmonds-Woodway High School Athletic Hall of Fame is clear: to recognize and honor student-athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors for their achievements and contributions to the athletic programs of Edmonds High School, Woodway High School, and EWHS. This mission resonates deeply with the community, as evidenced by the enthusiastic turnout at the ceremony.
A Tribute to the Inductees
The highlight of the evening was the induction ceremony itself, emceed by Bill Hull, a member of the selection committee. Each inductee was introduced with a recounting of their remarkable accomplishments, followed by personal reflections on their high school athletic experiences. The inductees included a mix of long-time community contributors, celebrated coaches, and outstanding athletes, with achievements spanning six decades.
Among the inductees were three individuals honored posthumously. Mike Hanchett, a revered wrestling coach, was remembered by current coach Brian Alfi, who shared personal anecdotes and lessons learned from Hanchett’s 30 years of coaching at both Edmonds and Edmonds-Woodway High Schools. Richard “Rusty” Wailes was celebrated by Bob Ernst, the former rowing coach at the University of Washington, who highlighted Wailes’ impressive Olympic achievements and his undefeated record against Harvard while rowing for Yale. Lastly, Kim Schattenkirk spoke on behalf of her son, Jason Schattenkirk, who found his passion for swimming at EWHS and still holds the oldest standing record in the 100-meter breaststroke.
The Inductees’ Reflections
The remarks from the inductees were filled with gratitude and nostalgia, echoing three common themes: the unwavering support from coaches and families, the invaluable life lessons learned through sports, and the cherished memories of community support. Each inductee received a Hall of Fame plaque from Athletic Director Geving, inscribed with their accomplishments and a photo, which will be displayed in the Hall of Fame hallway alongside the previous 83 inductees.
Celebrating Community Contributors
Among the honorees was John Harter, a dedicated community contributor whose efforts in youth sports have left a lasting impact. Harter’s initiatives, including the founding of the Edmonds Youth Club and the Sno-King Youth Club, have provided countless opportunities for young athletes in the community. His commitment to inclusivity in sports, particularly through the “Everyone Gets to Play” model, has shaped the landscape of youth athletics in Edmonds.
Spotlight on Athletic Excellence
The ceremony also recognized individual athletes who have made significant contributions to their sports. For instance, Mark Cook, a four-time Wesco Conference Champion in wrestling, and Karen Kvale, a multi-sport athlete who led her teams to historic achievements, were celebrated for their exceptional athletic careers. Kvale’s accolades include being the first PLU softball player to receive All-American recognition, while Cook’s coaching career has continued to influence young wrestlers.
The 2014 EWHS Girls Soccer Team, which clinched the state championship, was also honored. Their remarkable season, characterized by teamwork and determination, culminated in a historic victory that marked the first-ever state title for an EWHS girls team.
A Legacy of Achievement
As the evening drew to a close, the stories shared and the achievements celebrated served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Edmonds-Woodway High School athletics. The Hall of Fame not only honors past accomplishments but also inspires current and future generations of athletes to strive for excellence, foster teamwork, and embrace the supportive community that surrounds them.
The 2024 induction ceremony was more than just an event; it was a heartfelt celebration of the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and community that defines Edmonds-Woodway High School. As the plaques are hung in the Hall of Fame hallway, they will continue to tell the stories of those who have contributed to the rich athletic history of the school, inspiring future warriors to leave their mark.