REDLANDS, Calif. - The University of Redlands welcomed its newest members into the Bulldog Bench Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame on Friday, October 17, during a celebration for six former student-athletes, a long-time administrator, and one championship team.  Their combined achievements span decades, from the 1960s through the 2020s, demonstrating the sustained excellence that defines Bulldog Athletics.
 
The event began with an outdoor reception on the Orton Center Lawn, where teammates, classmates, former coaches, and families gathered on a beautiful evening.  Once inside, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Nikki Ayers spoke to the attendees, acknowledging the warm welcome she has received at Redlands.  President Krista Newkirk also shared remarks about the impressive past and the hopeful future within Bulldog Athletics, both of which were treasured by beloved alum Jim Schroeder '65, who passed away earlier this year.

After dinner, Master of Ceremonies Tom Whittemore kicked off the special event by recognizing a contributor synonymous with Bulldog Athletics.  After 42 years of service to the University of Redlands, Jeff Martinez was honored and humbled by his timely induction into the Hall of Fame.

"You don't do what I did, the way I did it, for all that time without the love, understanding, and support of family, so it is important to me that we honor [Susan] as well," Martinez stated in his acceptance speech, with his wife standing by his side.

Following personalized videos to highlight each inductee's U of R story, they received their Hall of Fame plaque from a presenter of their choosing before speaking to the group.  With emotions ranging from tears to laughter, Ali Smith '17 connected her work study opportunity with Bulldog football to her current career in Division I football while also highlighting the excellent support she received from all track and field coaches during her time at Redlands. 

"When I arrived here as a freshman, I had goals and dreams but probably didn't believe they were actually possible. You all helped me achieve those goals and make them a reality and for that I will be forever grateful," Smith shared.

Trevor Young '06 became the third student-athlete from the era of men's golf that included back-to-back-to-back national runner-up finishes.  He now joins teammates Ryne "RJ" Scholl '06 and Nick Obie '06 as Hall of Famers under then-head coach Art Salvesen, who was in attendance to present Young's award.

"To be fair, I didn't do this alone. I had an incredible group of teammates who made every practice and every tournament a battle," Young stated. "And I had a coach, Art Salvesen, who had the courage—or maybe the lack of better judgment—to recruit us all."

After being nominated by teammate Bruce Parker '65, swimmer Weldon Diggs '65 was inducted posthumously.  Along with Parker, members of Diggs' family represented him at the celebration, and his nephew Terry Thompson, who called his uncle a "Hall of Fame Man," spoke on their behalf.

"As a father, brother, uncle, attorney and friend, Weldon inspired everyone who he touched with his presence and who had the privilege of knowing him.  He is deeply missed by his friends and family," Thomspon said that night.

Courtney Carroll Bertolacci '12 entered the Hall of Fame after a dominant career under current Head Women's Basketball Coach Rich Murphy.  Seated next to each other during the video, they radiated mutual respect and appreciation for the honor. 

"Basketball at Redlands taught me more about life than I ever could have imagined – about resilience, teamwork, and the joy of giving your all to something you love," Bertolacci expressed.

The theme of coaches and Bulldog Athletics impacting lives continued when Ross Schunk '09 spoke of a particular life-changing moment with current Head Men's Soccer Coach Ralph Perez. 

"After our first day of tryouts my sophomore year, Coach Perez came up to me and said, "I think we can make a player out of you."  I'll never forget that moment," Schunk said.

The final individual inductee of the night was hometown graduate Tristan Kirk '13, who reminisced about the connections he still has with old teammates. 

"I can genuinely say that deciding to play basketball for the University of Redlands was one of the best decisions I've made in my life," Kirk reflected.  "Not only was I lucky enough to experience success on the court; I was surrounded by a great group of guys from the moment I stepped on campus all the way until I walked across the stage at the Greek Theater [for commencement]."

Finally, the Hall of Fame celebration concluded with the 2011 men's track & field team.  Head Coach Mike Schmidt spoke on behalf of the 35 student-athletes and seven coaches who made history as the first track & field team to be inducted into the Bulldog Bench Hall of Fame.  The squad went undefeated in conference meets and won the SCIAC title by dethroning the previous champion after a 19-year reign.

In their video, Schmidt, Ross Blanchard '11, and Andy Green '11 emphasized how special it was that this group was going into the Hall of Fame as a team for a sport that is often considered to be an individual one.

Throughout the night, Ayers' earlier words were illustrated again and again, and served as a critical reminder about the value of Bulldogs Athletics.

"…we are not simply recognizing their athletic achievement and leadership…we are honoring the spirit of the University of Redlands. A spirit built on grit, heart, and the relentless pursuit of excellence."

Learn more about this year's class. 

Visit the Hall of Fame page.

WATCH: 2025 Bulldog Bench Hall of Fame Video Stream

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