Bellevue College Welcomes New Members, Team into Athletics Hall of Fame
Oct 28, 2024The event celebrated the contributions of athletes, coaches, and supporters who have made a lasting impact on Bellevue College athletics and inspired future generations.
Bellevue College hosted a special evening of recognition at Glendale Country Club on Oct. 19, where five new members and a team were inducted into the college’s Athletics Hall of Fame. The event brought together alumni, staff, faculty, and community members to honor individuals who have left a mark on Bellevue College Athletics.
Co-sponsored by the Bellevue College Foundation and the Bellevue College Athletics department and supported by title sponsor Honda Auto Center of Bellevue, the celebration highlighted the contributions of athletes, staff, and supporters whose impact on Bellevue College Athletics continues to inspire current and future generations.
Melissa Johnson, executive director of the Bellevue College Foundation, kicked off the evening by thanking attendees and sponsors for their ongoing support.
“Bellevue College’s Athletics Hall of Fame honors the accomplishments of former student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and supporters who, through their dedication, talent, and passion, have represented the college with distinction,” Johnson said.
The ceremony was led by Jeremy Eggers, Bellevue College’s athletic director, who praised the ongoing legacy of Bellevue College athletics and the important role the 2024 inductees have played.
“Every day, our student-athletes work hard to achieve their goals, and it’s an honor to recognize those who have helped shape this proud tradition,” Eggers said. “Our 2024 inductees exemplify the very best of Bellevue College athletics.”
Meet the 2024 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees
- Al Courter: A major supporter of Bellevue College for over 30 years, Courter’s contributions have been instrumental in developing Bellevue College Athletics. As the founder of Honda Auto Center of Bellevue, Courter has generously supported facility upgrades like the Courter Baseball Field and the Courter Family Athletic Pavilion. His continued financial contributions through the Athletic Needs and Scholarship funds have enhanced the student-athlete experience, leaving a lasting impact on the college.
- Bill O’Connor: O’Connor, who served as Bellevue College’s athletic director for 14 years, was pivotal in revitalizing the college’s golf program and overseeing critical facility improvements, including the soccer and softball turf fields. His leadership helped transform the college’s athletic infrastructure, and the center court in the Courter Family Athletic Pavilion now bears his name, commemorating his lasting contributions.
- Jason Chapman: Chapman led Bellevue College’s tennis teams from 1998 to 2019, reviving the men’s tennis program after a 17-year hiatus. Under his leadership, Bellevue tennis teams won 14 women’s and four men’s NWAC championships. Chapman was recognized as Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) “Coach of the Year” several times, demonstrating his ability to inspire his athletes and foster excellence in the program.
- Renita Kay Garnett: Garnett, a former track and field star, made her mark by setting an All-American record in the 80-meter hurdles while attending Kennedy Catholic High School. She went on to excel at Bellevue College, helping the track and field team win the 1982 Conference Championship. Her 100-meter hurdles time of 13.89 seconds remains a NWAC record today. Garnett later competed at the University of Oregon, where her legacy continues to inspire current and future athletes.
- Scott Knoblich: Knoblich served as head coach for Bellevue College’s track and field and cross-country teams, guiding them to multiple championships during his tenure. Under his leadership, the women’s track team won four consecutive conference titles from 1981 to 1984, while the men’s team consistently placed second. His coaching also led to five consecutive men’s cross-country conference titles and three for the women. Knoblich’s commitment to athlete development has shaped the success of Bellevue College’s programs.
- 1983 Women’s Track Team: Coached by Scott Knoblich, the 1983 women’s track team achieved historic success by winning 13 of 17 events at the NWAC Championship, setting several records in the process. The team’s achievements, including National Community College records in the 1600-meter and mile relays, remain a pivotal milestone in Bellevue College Athletics. Three of their conference records still stand today, reflecting their enduring excellence.
In his closing remarks, Eggers encouraged attendees to continue supporting Bellevue College student-athletes.
“Your support, whether through events like tonight or our annual golf tournament, helps our athletes achieve their goals both on and off the field,” Eggers said. He also emphasized the importance of scholarships and facility improvements, which help ensure that future Bulldogs can excel in both academics and athletics.
The Bellevue College Foundation works year-round to support student-athletes through scholarships and other opportunities. Their annual golf tournament on March 31, 2025, is one way the community can continue to help fund critical resources for Bellevue College Athletics.
For more information on how to support Bellevue College athletics or to participate in the upcoming golf tournament, visit bellevuecollege/foundation.