Brainerd All-Sports Banquet Celebrates Hall of Fame Inductions and MVPs

The Brainerd All-Sports Banquet held on Monday, April 29, was a night to remember as former athletes, coaches, and individuals were inducted into the Brainerd Warriors Activities Hall of Fame. The class of 2024 was nothing short of impressive, with former NFL lineman Joe Haeg, NHL Stanley Cup winner Josh Archibald, and former Red Bull cliff diver Katy Etterman joining Brainerd swimming and diving coaches Dan Anderson and John Zemke in this prestigious honor.

The Warrior Athletic Hall of Fame, established in 1985, has enshrined 199 Warriors over the past 39 years. This year, the Most Valuable Players for each of the 31 Warrior athletic teams were also recognized. Fall team MVPs included standout athletes like Ben Stadum, Madi Miller, and Eli Hoelz, among others.

Winter and spring team MVPs were also acknowledged for their outstanding performances in their respective sports. Notable names like Owen Olson, Calia Chaney, and Isaac Hanson were among the deserving recipients of these prestigious awards.

In addition to the MVPs, eight individuals were honored with Silent Warrior Awards for their selfless contributions to the Warrior athletic program. The Bud Schmid Award for Brainerd Warrior Assistant Coach of the Year was presented to Julie Davidge of the Warrior dance team.

Furthermore, Claire Erdal and Spencer Porter were recognized as Brainerd’s Minnesota State High School League Triple-A recipients, showcasing their excellence both on and off the field.

The Brainerd Dispatch Scholar Athletes were also celebrated for their academic and athletic achievements, highlighting the well-rounded nature of these exceptional individuals.

Overall, the Brainerd All-Sports Banquet was a night filled with recognition, celebration, and appreciation for the talented athletes and dedicated individuals who make the Warrior athletic program a success.