Cotter’s annual Hall of Fame induction was held on Saturday, September 21. The ceremony featured two individual inductees, Mary Ellen (Baisley) Sparrow, class of 1994, and Reverend Donald J. Lovas, class of 1955, as well as the 2003 Cotter state championship softball team,.

The event was emceed by Colleen Peplinski and, after remarks by Sr. Judy, the new inductees were introduced by the presenter of their choice.

Fr. Lovas was presented by Fr. Breza, a fellow priest, classmate and member of the same line on the 1954 football team as Fr. Lovas. Fr. Breza, who described himself as arriving at Cotter as “a tuba player from St. Stan’s”, praised Fr. Lovas for his effort and versatility on the field. Fr. Lovas talked about respect and how sports played a role in teaching him the value of this virtue. Fr. Lovas was named to the all-state football team in his senior year. “You never know what will happen when you stick your head in a helmet,” Lovas added.

WACS principal Pat Bowlin presented Sparrow and had this to say about her: “There is no player more responsible for the transformation of Cotter basketball and softball from a last place team to a championship team than Mary. Her passion, work ethic and the joy in which she played were inspirational to her teammates and future Ramblers. Mary is not only one of the best shooters and clutch hitters in Cotter sports history, but one of the best people that Cotter has produced.”

Twelve of the 2003 players were able to attend and all had fond memories to share. Leah Troke and Lindsey Maus spoke for the team recalling fond memories from their magical season. Other teams members include managers Heidi Spande and Bridget Wilma, players Jessica Weisbrod, Megan McDonald, Kelly Klein, Toni Kujak, Kelly Kukowski, Michelle Bernadot, Devin Bowlin, Danielle Bowlin, Hannah Callahan, Katie Florin, Sarah Kneller, Katie Landowski, Katie Shea, Gretchen Strelow and Bethanny Wolvington, whose father, assistant coach Dave Wolvington, was also in attendance.

Kelly (Kukowski) Bartelson felt the same way, “I was so honored to be a part of the first girls’ team championship! My favorite memories were of course winning state, the friendships we had with each other, and definitely the atmosphere at state(ball fields, hotels, banquets). We worked very hard for that championship!”

Danielle Bowlin added, “It was fun to hear the other inductees talk about Cotter and the lessons that were learned and the values that were instilled by being part of such a faith-based, tight-knit, family-like community. Seeing my teammates brought me to the realization that we were so much like family at one time that even though 10 years has passed it felt like no time at all! My favorite memory and something I will never forget is that last out that resulted in our first state championship. I still get goosebumps thinking about the emotions, the relief, the pride that was felt after years of hard work and determination. Being able to share that moment with not only my best friends but my sister and my dad was a once in a lifetime experience!”

Mr. Bowlin, head coach of the 2003 team, enjoyed celebrating the wonderful moment with his team, and former players. “It was a great day. There is nothing that gives coaches more joy than to see their former players return and to see how well they are doing and how many great memories they have from their high school experience, ” Bowlin reflected. “Getting everyone together from the 2003 was a great deal of fun for everyone. For all of us it was hard to imagine that 10 years had passed, it seemed like only yesterday that we were celebrating our state championship in Mankato. The team really enjoyed seeing one another again. It was a special time in all of our lives and many of the girls have remained close. For me personally I enjoyed hearing about all the successes that the girls have achieved in the last 10 years. Some are now moms, most are college graduates, three are teachers and all of them are credits to their community. I am most proud of the people they have become.”

The ceremony was held in the newly renovated gymnasium, and at the ceremony were models of the plans for the future practice gym, lobby area, and entrance.