SALEM, Ore. – Corban hosted its inaugural Warrior Hall of Fame induction ceremony on January 31, honoring several deserving charter members. The Hall of Fame was created to honor athletes, teams, coaches, and non-athletes who have made a significant impact on the success of Warrior athletics.
Director of Athletics
Dave Johnson summarized the purpose of the ceremony in his opening comments: “What an honor it is to be in the presence of those who helped build athletics at Corban into what it is today.”
The 2010 Hall of Fame inductees were Coach
Tim Hills ’69, who received a standing ovation for his accomplishments during his tenure which spanned 1969 to 1998; basketball players
Roger Mosier ’71,
Don Hiebenthal ’79, and
Brian Hills ’97; and soccer star
Aaron Lewis ’98. The first-ever team recognition was conferred upon the
1976–77 men’s basketball team. Acknowledged for outstanding service was the late
Clarence E. Jeffers ’50, whose award was accepted by his brother Adrian, daughter Cindy Jeffers Moore, and grandson Kyle.
Tim Seiber, Assistant Director of Athletics and emcee for the ceremony, said, “This formal recognition has been a long time in coming, but it’s finally here.” Several video tributes were presented by fellow coaches and sportswriters from around Oregon, and each inductee was also recognized with a presentation by a peer or special mentor.
It was evident throughout the ceremony that the Hall of Fame members manifested a strong Christian character. Johnson said that, in addition to their accomplishments, Warrior athletics was furthered by “their heart for the Lord.” Coach Hills’ lifelong impact on those he has mentored demonstrated his integrity and passion. A nostalgic “Hillsy story” was shared by many players throughout the program.
In accepting his award, Hills acknowledged that his father “needs a bigger shirt for his chest” for having two sons and a grandson honored at the ceremony. He also counted it a blessing to be able to coach his brother Jon (’76–’77 men’s basketball team) and, later, his son Brian.
Brian Hills was noted for his “phenomenal ability to score in traffic.” He spoke of his appreciation, not just for the award, but for what his alma mater taught him: that although athletic competition is important, making a difference for the eternal prize found in Christ Jesus is the ultimate prize. “That’s what makes this place special,” he said.
As building superintendent for the 1978 sports center project, Jeffers was honored for his outstanding service and personal commitment to the College. President Reno Hoff said Jeffers was well known for his competitive spirit and his mission in life to serve others.
Sunday’s event gathered 180 alumni, friends, family and Corban personnel into the Psalm Performing Arts Center. Besides the video tributes and individual presentations, each member was awarded a framed certificate, a lifetime Warrior sports pass and a free entry card to future Golf Classic tournaments. Moreover, a trophy bearing each member’s name will be displayed in the C.E. Jeffers Sports Center.
To read about the accomplishments of the Warrior Hall of Fame charter members,
click here.