ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME 2025
TOM LARSEN B’74
A four-sport athlete and leader, Tom Larsen left a lasting mark on Bellarmine through his talent, dedication, and commitment to community.
Tom played football, basketball, track & field, and wrestling, excelling in each. On the gridiron, he was a dominant force, earning All-League Defensive Tackle (junior year), AllLeague honors on both sides of the line (senior year), and recognition as an All-State Defensive Tackle his senior season.
He received the Captain’s Award and Inspirational Award as a senior, and capped his career by being selected for the prestigious All-State Shrine Benefit Football Game.
In track, Tom was a standout in the shot put, claiming the city junior high championship as a freshman and advancing as far as the district meet his junior year. As a senior, he added varsity wrestling to his list of achievements, placing 2nd at the Sub-Regional Tournament and competing at Regionals in the unlimited weight class.
Beyond athletics, Tom was deeply engaged in campus life, serving as a Senior Senator in ASB, participating in FCA with Br. Jerry Sullivan, S.J., starring in the school musical JesusChristSuperstar , and giving back through community service at the YMCA.
At graduation, he was honored with the prestigious Gary Ruffo Award, recognizing excellence in leadership, character, and service.
Tom continued his football career at Washington State University (1975–1978), where he was a four-year letterman, starting guard, and long snapper. He played in the 1979 Challenge Bowl (Pac-10 vs. Big 8 in the Kingdome) and even signed a free-agent contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, playing in a preseason game at Arrowhead Stadium.
Some of Tom’s most enduring memories include playing under legendary coach Ed Fallon during Fallon’s 100th career win, the incredible support of the Bellarmine community following the tragic loss of his brother in 1973, and the lifelong friendships forged with teammates and coaches. These bonds were so strong that Tom returned to Bellarmine in 1995 as a teacher and coach, a role he has cherished ever since.
Tom Larsen’s legacy is one of athletic excellence, leadership, and a deep devotion to the Bellarmine community.
BOB O’ConnoR B’79
1961 - 2021
Bob O’Connor was a standout two-sport athlete at Bellarmine, excelling in both football and track & field. Known for his leadership and talent, he was a two-time team captain and one of the most decorated athletes of his class.
On the football field, Bob was a dominant two-way player, earning recognition on both sides of the ball.
As a senior, he was named to the All-City First Team for offense and defense, and capped his Bellarmine career with All-State honors. He also represented the Lions in the prestigious North-South All-State Game. A highlight of his career came in 1977, when he helped lead the Lions to the City Championship with a thrilling three-way playoff victory over Wilson.
In track & field, Bob specialized in the high jump, where he set a new school record of 6’6” and went on to place 2nd in the league his senior year. His combination of power and agility made him one of Bellarmine’s most versatile athletes of the era.
After graduation, Bob continued his football career at the Division I level with Vanderbilt University (1979–1983), where he played against some of the nation’s top programs in the SEC. He went on to play professionally with the Memphis Showboats of the USFL in 1984 before joining the Philadelphia Eagles later that fall.
Bob’s excellence on the field and leadership off it left a lasting legacy at Bellarmine, paving the way for future Lions.
MINDY CORDrY B’83
1964 - 2021
Mindy Cordry, Class of 1983, is being honored for her outstanding athletic achievements during her years at Bellarmine. A two-sport varsity athlete, Mindy was a key contributor on both the volleyball and softball teams, competing at the varsity level all four years of high school.
Her dedication, leadership, and competitive spirit left a lasting mark on Bellarmine athletics, setting a standard of excellence for those who followed.
In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Mindy was also recognized for her academic excellence as a National Merit Scholar Award recipient. She truly embodied the balance of mind, body, and spirit that Bellarmine strives to instill in its students.
Mindy’s legacy as a multi-sport athlete and scholar continues to inspire the Bellarmine community, and we are proud to induct her into the Bellarmine Athletic Hall of Fame.
KEVIN O’ConnoR B’83
Kevin O’Connor distinguished himself as a three-sport athlete at Bellarmine, competing in football and track & field.
His leadership, athleticism, and competitive spirit made him a standout, particularly in football and track, where he earned recognition at both the league and state levels.
On the football field, Kevin was a force for the Lions, helping lead the 1982 team to a second-place league finish and a third-place finish at state. Known for his toughness and playmaking ability, one of his most memorable moments came during the state quarterfinals, when he returned an interception for a touchdown against Kennedy. His efforts earned him First Team All-League honors and the team’s Most Inspirational Award his senior year.
In track & field, Kevin excelled in the high jump, setting a school record of 6’8”, a mark that stood out in Bellarmine history.
He captured the league championship in the event and went on to place 5th at the state meet his senior year.
His performance and leadership earned him recognition as Team Captain and the team’s Most Inspirational Athlete.
Following his time at Bellarmine, Kevin continued his football career at Eastern Washington University, where he played from 1983 to 1987. Competing at the NCAA Division I-AA level, he earned All-Big Sky Conference honors and contributed to the foundation of EWU’s strong football tradition.
Kevin’s dedication, leadership, and athletic excellence left a lasting legacy at Bellarmine.
SUSAN LENTH MOFFET B’85
A record-breaking swimmer and scholar, Susan Lenth Moffet is one of the most decorated athletes in Bellarmine history.
Because Bellarmine does not have a swim team, Susan competed for Foss High School, where she quickly established herself as one of the top swimmers in Washington state. By the end of her career, she had broken nearly every Foss school record and risen to national prominence.
Her achievements include:
» State Champion in the 100 breaststroke (junior & senior years), earning All-American honors both times. She posted the 4th fastest high school time in the nation as a junior and the 8th fastest in the nation as a senior.
» State Champion in the 200 medley relay (junior & senior years), setting a state record that stood for 18 years.
» Two-time state team champion (junior & senior years).
» A memorable senior-year victory in the 100 breaststroke, where she edged out close friend and longtime competitor Kim Chen.
Her excellence extended far beyond the pool. Susan was Bellarmine’s valedictorian, earning top awards in Social Studies, English, and Science, while also pursuing her musical talents as a pianist, performing in the Young Artists Music Festival.
After Bellarmine, Susan swam at Stanford University (1985–1989), where she was team captain, a Pac-10 Champion (100 breast, 1989), and a multiple NCAA finalist—finishing 4th in the nation in 1989. She earned recognition as both an All-American and an Academic All-American, and competed in the 1984 and 1988 U.S. Olympic Trials.
Her remarkable career has already been honored with induction into the Washington State High School Swimming Hall of Fame (2005) and the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame (2008).
Susan’s legacy at Bellarmine is one of discipline, excellence, and balance, excelling not only in athletics but also in academics and the arts.
MIKE MILLER B’94
Mike Miller was a three-sport standout at Bellarmine, excelling in football, basketball, and golf, while also competing in track & field his senior year.
A gifted athlete and natural leader, Mike was a team captain in both football and basketball, guiding his teams to success at the league, district, and state levels.
On the football field, Mike was a dynamic quarterback, earning All-Narrows League honors in both his junior and senior years. He was also recognized by The News Tribune as one of the “Best of the Rest” Northwest Nuggets and was featured in Sports Washington’s Heads of State list. Twice named a Tacoma Athletic Commission Athlete of the Week, he led the Lions to the district playoffs in 1992 and the state playoffs in 1993.
In basketball, Mike was equally accomplished, earning All-League honors all three varsity years, including First Team recognition as both a junior and senior. He was named a Tacoma News Tribune All-Area selection in 1993, and a three-time Tacoma Athletic Commission Athlete of the Week. He played a key role in Bellarmine’s 1993 league championship (19-1) season and helped the Lions capture three consecutive AAA West Central District titles
(1992–1994), along with back-to-back state tournament appearances in 1993 and 1994. His outstanding play earned him a spot in the prestigious WIBCA All-Star Games in both Seattle (SPU) and Spokane (GU).
Mike also contributed to Bellarmine’s success in other sports, including helping the golf team win a league championship as a freshman (1991) and qualifying for districts in track & field his senior year.
Reflecting on his Bellarmine experience, Mike often points to the moments beyond the games — pregame chapel Masses, lessons from coaches, and grueling practices that built lifelong memories.
For him, Bellarmine athletics was not only about competition, but about faith, community, and tradition, values that continue to shape him today.
After Bellarmine, Mike went on to play collegiate basketball at the University of Puget Sound (1995–1999), where he earned All-League honors in 1998 and 1999.
Mike Miller’s career reflects the very best of Bellarmine athletics: excellence, leadership, resilience, and a deep love for community.
CASEY CALVARY B’97
A gifted athlete, fierce competitor, and natural leader, Casey Calvary left an indelible mark on Bellarmine athletics through his talent, determination, and spirit.
Although he first tried football as a freshman, Casey quickly found his true home on the basketball court, where he became a three-year varsity standout. By his junior and senior years, he led the team in scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots, earning Narrows League First Team honors (1996), League MVP (1997), and First Team All-State recognition (1997). Known for his intelligence on the court, relentless work ethic, and leadership as a senior captain, Casey elevated everyone around him. Former Bellarmine Basketball Coach Bernie Salazar recalled:
“It was an honor and a privilege to coach Casey Calvary at Bellarmine Prep. A fine young man from a wonderful family in Tacoma. Casey was a tremendous competitor, an outstanding athlete, an intelligent player, and a very tough player. He played with excellent courage and had a distinguished athletic ability that thrilled and amazed us all at Bellarmine and throughout the state. The best part about Casey is that he was and is now a very good person. A fierce competitor on the court, and a kind and loving person off the court.”
Casey’s high school career produced unforgettable moments, from his 38-point performance against Wilson High while battling a fever, to his astonishing 68% field goal percentage as a junior, believed to be one of the highest in
Bellarmine history. His legendary dunk during senior year tryouts—shattering a glass backboard in the Bellarmine gym—remains one of the most iconic moments in program history. Though a broken ankle his senior season cut short his final year, Casey’s resilience, courage, and team-first mentality defined his legacy.
Beyond basketball, Casey was a member of the band and marching band, reflecting his broad talents and full Bellarmine experience. His drive and selfmotivation—transforming from a slender underclassman into a 300-pound bench-pressing senior—showed the determination that fueled his success at every level.
After Bellarmine, Casey went on to star at Gonzaga University (1998–2001), leading the Bulldogs to the Elite Eight in 1999 and back-to-back Sweet Sixteen appearances (2000, 2001). He earned All-WCC honors, was named WCC Player of the Year (2001), and was recognized as both a Wooden Award and AP All-American nominee.
Professionally, Casey’s career spanned the globe. He played in Japan (Isuzu Giga Cats, JBL All-Star), France (Chalon, ULEB Cup), the United States (Washington Wizards, Idaho Stampede), Australia (Townsville Crocodiles, two-time NBL All-Star), and Spain (Fuenlabrada, Madrid; Villa de Los Barrios).
From Tacoma to Gonzaga to basketball courts around the world, Casey Calvary’s journey is a testament to perseverance, humility, and excellence.
MEGAN Spriestersbach prosser B’99
A true multi-sport standout, Megan Spriestersbach, now Prosser, made her mark at Bellarmine as an exceptional competitor in soccer, basketball, and track & field. She earned nine varsity letters during her career and was honored with Bellarmine’s prestigious Blanket Award.
On the soccer field, Megan helped lead the Lions to an incredible run of success, including three straight Narrows League titles (1996–1998) and a state championship in 1996. Her leadership and skill also contributed to a 2nd place finish in 1995 and a 3rd place finish in 1998. She earned All-League honors and was a key member of one of Bellarmine’s most decorated soccer eras. Former Girls Soccer Coach Jenny Phillips reflected:
“Megan, affectionately known as Spree, was a terrific asset to the soccer team. She was tall, strong, athletic, and competitive… But the best part was when in the middle of a competitive, tense game, Spree would give her teammates or the sidelines a silly look, grin, stick out her tongue or make a gleeful leap. Spree brought enthusiasm, joy, and general silliness to the team, and reminded us to always have fun!”
On the basketball court, Megan was equally dynamic, earning First Team All-League recognition as a senior. A highlight came in the 1998 state semifinals, where she hit six three-pointers in a single game, cementing her place as a clutch performer on the biggest stage. Girls’ Basketball Coach Cari Harrison added:
“ There are usually a handful of athletes that pass through a high school hall, field, court, or track and leave a lasting
legacy after their four years have passed. Megan is one of those athletes! Beyond her athletic prowess, she was one of the most delightful athletes I have ever coached— intense, passionate, the quintessential team player. Her energy lifted our team to heights nobody thought we would reach.”
In track & field, Megan specialized in the javelin, where she set the school record and consistently placed among the top five at the state meet all three years she competed. She also earned recognition as a Tacoma News Tribune Athlete of the Week and was named Bellarmine Booster Athlete of the Month in April 2002. Among her early achievements, she earned an impressive eighth-place finish in the javelin at the 1998 Junior Olympics.
After Bellarmine, Megan continued her athletic career at the University of Washington, competing in track & field at the NCAA Division I level. She quickly rose to prominence, earning a full athletic scholarship, placing top four in the Pac-10 Championships all four years, and achieving All-American honors by finishing 4th at the 2004 NCAA Championships in Austin, Texas. She was also an NCAA qualifier during her junior year. Her throw of 173’7” ranks 2nd all-time at UW, and she went on to place 9th at the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials in Sacramento, California.
Known for her energy, determination, and ability to lift up those around her, Megan not only left behind records and championships, but also a reputation for embodying the best of Bellarmine’s spirit—hard work, leadership, and care for others.
KIM BUTLER B’01
Kim Butler has left an indelible mark on Bellarmine Prep through her extraordinary talent, leadership, and dedication across three sports: soccer, basketball, and track.
On the basketball court, Kim was a four-year varsity player, earning All-Narrows League honors all four years, All-Area recognition twice, and a spot on the 2000 All-State Team. She was named Most Improved Player (1998), Defensive Player of the Year (1999), and a two-time Team Captain and MVP (2000, 2001). She helped lead the Lions to a 2000 League and District Championship and top finishes at State, including 6th place (1998) and 4th place (1999).
Coach Cari Harrison reflected on Kim’s impact:
“I knew Kim was an incredible athlete when I saw her play basketball in middle school; thankfully, she chose Bellarmine and in every sport Kim competed in, she not only excelled, but she elevated the play, the fun, the competition, the intensity. I had the unique privilege of coaching the two Butler girls—Kim and Julie—in basketball. Those years were quite simply the best and most memorable, because we competed well and had the time of our lives.”
On the soccer field, Kim’s impact was equally remarkable. A four-time All-State and All-League honoree, she was also named League Offensive Player of the Year twice. Kim led the Lions to four straight League Championships and a 2000 State Championship, scoring both the tying and game-winning goals that propelled her team into the tournament.
In track and field, Kim set a school record in the shot put (37’5.5”)—all while competing with a torn, pre-surgery ACL. She also helped her 4x400m relay team secure a 4th place finish at State in 2000.
Kim’s excellence extended beyond Bellarmine. She went on to play Division I basketball at Santa Clara University and Oregon State University, before competing professionally across Europe for seven years. Her career culminated in representing Great Britain’s Women’s Olympic Basketball Team (2006–2013), including competing in the 2012 London Olympic Games.
Now, Kim Butler has come full circle, returning to Bellarmine Prep as head coach of the Girls’ Basketball team.
“WELCOME BACK KIM,” Coach Harrison adds, “we are all looking forward to your leadership on the basketball court once again!”
Kim’s legacy is one of extraordinary achievement, perseverance, and leadership—qualities that continue to inspire generations of Lions.
BRIE Felnagle solberg B’05
Few athletes in Bellarmine history have left a mark as lasting as Brie Felnagle (now Solberg), whose dominance in both track & field and cross country made her one of the premier distance runners in the nation during her time as a Lion.
A six-time individual state champion in track, Brie showcased her versatility and endurance across events: winning the 800m as a freshman, the 1600m as a sophomore, both the 800m and 1600m as a junior, and capping her career with titles in the 1600m and 3200m as a senior. On the cross country course, she was equally remarkable, claiming back-to-back individual state championships her junior and senior years.
Her performances extended far beyond Washington state. As a senior, Brie placed 6th at the Foot Locker National Championships in cross country and finished as the national runner-up in the mile at the Nike Outdoor Nationals, running what was then the 5th fastest mile time ever recorded by a high school girl in the U.S. She also helped lead Bellarmine’s cross country team to a state championship in 2004, with the Lions earning a dramatic tiebreak victory over Gig Harbor before going on to finish 4th at Nike Team Nationals.
Brie points to two moments as especially meaningful in her Bellarmine career: her comeback from mononucleosis during her junior year, where she went on to win both the 800m and 1600m state titles, and the unforgettable team cross country state championship, where Bellarmine’s 6th runner sealed the victory. She credits the grueling earlymorning pool workouts designed by Coach Matt Ellis as the unlikely key to that triumph.
Heading into the state track & field championships her senior year at Bellarmine, the Seattle Times reported:
“I’d like people 10 years from now to remember what I’ve done,” Felnagle said. “I want to inspire people, that this is what they can do if they go for it.”
Coach Ellis noted, “What readers didn't realize is that she had done the unthinkable three weeks prior. In a tri-meet versus Gig Harbor and Port Angeles, she had broken the state all-time record in the 1600m in 4:40.88. It was the most remarkable and inspiring Bellarmine race I have ever witnessed - not a championship race - just an athlete pushing her limits to see what was possible.”
Following her extraordinary career at Bellarmine, Brie competed at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2005–2009), where she was an indoor national champion in the distance medley relay and outdoor national champion in the 1500 meters. She went on to run professionally for Adidas from 2010 to 2018, representing the highest level of American distance running.
Brie Felnagle’s achievements, resilience, and leadership firmly place her among the greatest athletes in Bellarmine history.
1977-78 BOYS FOOTBALL
There was plenty of excitement surrounding Bellarmine football heading into the fall of 1977. With a strong core of returning seniors and a talented group of juniors, the Lions were ready to challenge the very best in the Tacoma City League.
The level of competition in the city was remarkable— rosters at Mount Tahoma, Wilson, and Foss featured future stars who would go on to play at Washington, Oregon, WSU, and even Notre Dame. But Bellarmine relied on great team chemistry, disciplined play, and outstanding coaching to rise to the top and claim the program’s third city title of the decade.
The season started with promise. After an impressive showing in the Grid Go Round jamboree, Bellarmine opened with a convincing win over Seattle’s Lincoln before facing Shorewood in a game played under one of the worst rainstorms Memorial Field had ever seen. In a fumbleplagued contest, the Lions fell 6-2, but bounced back the next week with a big road win over Issaquah.
City League play began with a 21-0 shutout of Lincoln, but a narrow 14-7 loss to a strong Mt. Tahoma squad meant the Lions had to win out to keep their postseason hopes alive. They responded with three straight wins over Wilson, Stadium, and Foss, outscoring their opponents 52-14 thanks to a stingy defense and one of the best offensive lines in school history.
That run forced a tiebreaker at Lincoln Bowl, where Wilson defeated Mt. Tahoma in the opener to face Bellarmine for the playoff berth. In front of a jam-packed crowd, the Lions blanked the Rams 14-0 to secure the school’s first-ever trip to the WIAA state playoffs. Though they fell 15-0 to eventual state champion Sumner the following weekend, the breakthrough season set a new standard for Bellarmine football.
With so many key players returning, the 1978 Lions entered the season with high expectations, and they delivered another memorable campaign. In non-league play, Bellarmine again knocked off Lincoln of Seattle and Issaquah, while dropping a close contest to Narrows League power South Kitsap.
League play proved just as dramatic as the year before. The Lions edged rival Wilson 21-20 in the opener before dropping a heartbreaking 13-10 decision to Foss. Once again, the margin for error was gone—but once again, Bellarmine rose to the challenge. The defense was nearly impenetrable, allowing only one touchdown across the final three weeks while the Lions defeated Lincoln, Stadium, and Mt. Tahoma. The highlight came in a 12-0 shutout of an outstanding Mt. Tahoma squad, a victory that forced another season-ending tiebreaker at Lincoln Bowl. This time, the Lions fell just short, losing 14-10 to Mt. Tahoma in a thrilling contest.
Still, the back-to-back City League championships cemented Bellarmine’s place among Tacoma’s elite football programs. Guided by legendary head coaches Terry Ennis in 1977 and Ed Fallon in 1978, and top assistants Bob Leslie and Dan Heltsley, these teams left their mark with disciplined offense, rock-solid defense, and a powerful sense of team chemistry.
1989-92 GIRLS TENNIS
Teamwork. That’s what made the girls tennis team click from 1989 through 1992. The Lions were not only undefeated during the regular season in the Narrows League for four years, but were dominate on the district and state levels as well.
The girls used their depth in both singles and doubles to dispatch their league rivals and finish their four Narrows League seasons undefeated.
At the District III tournament, the Lions maintained their winning ways against stiff competition from both Kentridge and Kentwood of the North Puget Sound League and Puyallup and Rogers from the South Puget Sound League. Just like in league play, the Lions were able to take care of business and capture the West Central District Tournament championship trophy four consecutive years.
When the young Lions traveled to the WIAA State Championships in 1989, they certainly surprised the field with their outstanding play. Behind the singles championship of freshman Sonja Olejar who dominated the field, the Lions battled an excellent Sammamish Totem team from the Kingco Conference to tie for the team championship. Both teams returned their entire rosters in 1990 and once again they tied for the WIAA title as Olejar won her second consecutive singles title to lead the Lions. In both 1991 and 1992, the girls placed second to perennial tennis powerhouse Mercer Island. Although the girls fell short in retaining their state championship crown, Olejar was able to win the state singles title in both her junior and senior seasons, and the team finished a close runner up to the powerful Islanders.
Congratulations to all the players who took the court in this four year stretch of excellence, especially to the four seniors from the class of 1992, Kris Anderson, Sonya Funkhouser, Sonya Olejar, and Rachel Shepard who competed on each of these teams during their time at Bellarmine.
2003-05 GIRLS GOLF
From 2003 to 2005, the Bellarmine Girls Golf program experienced an extraordinary run of success, cementing their place in school history.
Under the leadership of Head Coaches Mark Bender (2003) and Hailey Bender-Dawson (2004–2005), along with Assistant Coaches Andy Ramona and Tom Ainslie, the Lions captured three consecutive State Championships, three District Championships, and three Narrows League Championships—all while remaining undefeated in league play each year.
The team’s dominance was fueled by unmatched work ethic, deep dedication, and a shared commitment to excellence that showed in every practice, match, and championship appearance. They also had the steadfast support of their families, the school, and the professional guidance of PGA professional Tom Ainslie.
The individual accomplishments during this era were equally remarkable. At the 2003 State Golf Championships, Kristen Stanley placed 5th, Chris Yun 6th, Katie Bender 15th, with Breanna Carmichael and Stephanie Ploof tying for 16th. In 2004, Chris Yun claimed the Individual State Championship, with Carmichael finishing 9th. In 2005, Yun placed 2nd and Carmichael 10th.
Several players went on to play collegiate golf: Katie Bender and Breanna Carmichael at Western Washington University, Kristen Stanley at Trinity University, and Chris Yun at Columbia University.
Mark Bender, who took a sabbatical after 2003 to watch his daughter Katie’s collegiate career, proudly handed the reins to his daughter Hailey, who guided the team to continued dominance. Together, this group not only brought home championships but also embodied the spirit of Bellarmine athletics—teamwork, perseverance, and pride.
Their legacy remains an enduring example of what can be achieved when talent, discipline, and community come together.
2004 BOYS SOCCER
The 2004 Bellarmine Boys Soccer team etched their names in history with an unforgettable season, finishing with a record of 20-0-2 and capturing not only the Washington State Championship but also being crowned #1 in the nation by the NSCAA—the first and only Bellarmine team to earn National Championship recognition.
Led by Head Coach Joey Waters and assistants Steve Seiwerath and Mike Brown, the Lions demonstrated dominance, resilience, and unity throughout their championship journey.
Their playoff run was packed with drama and defining moments. After a thrilling 5-4 victory over Todd Beamer, where Adam West scored four goals and Daniel Gray added another, the Lions edged past Wilson 1-0 in the Round of 16. In the Quarterfinals, Bellarmine stunned topranked Inglemoor—then 18-0-1 and ranked 6th nationally— by storming to a 3-0 lead with goals from Brennan Brown, Brett Gallinger, and Scott Blanchet, ultimately winning 3-1.
The Semifinal was a nail-biter, as Brennan Brown scored in regulation before the match went to penalties. Goalkeeper Ian Cull made two crucial saves, and freshman Daniel Gray delivered the game-winning shootout goal to send Bellarmine to the State Final.
In the championship match against Juanita, the Lions took control early. Chase Tangney’s header opened the scoring, and Adam West sealed the win late in the second half. Despite a late Juanita goal, Bellarmine secured the 2-1 victory and the State Title.
The season was also filled with individual honors. Coach
Joey Waters was named State Coach of the Year. Adam West (Forward) and Ian Cull (Goalkeeper) earned First Team All-State recognition, while Mike Baker (Defender) was named Second Team, and Brett Gallinger received Honorable Mention.
But beyond accolades, the team’s bond set them apart. As players recalled:
“We firmly believe a large part of our success came from the way the upperclassmen embraced the sophomores and freshmen right from the start. There was no superiority—we supported each other no matter what grade or club team we were on. That culture carried on and helped Bellarmine Soccer win two more state championships since then.”
Off the field, memories were just as vivid—playing “Jeopardy” on road trips, team movie nights, and locker room freestyles from Pat “Rusta Rhymes” Rust. Many went on to college and professional soccer careers, but nearly all agree: the 2004 season was the most fun and unforgettable experience of their lives.
This legendary team’s legacy lives on, and their induction into the Bellarmine Athletic Hall of Fame is a testament to their excellence, unity, and history-making season.
MARK BENDER
Girls Golf Coach
From 2000 to 2018, Mark Bender built Bellarmine’s Girls Golf program into one of the most dominant high school teams in the nation.
Taking a sabbatical from 2004–2007 to follow his daughter Katie’s collegiate golf career (with his older daughter Hailey stepping in as coach), Bender returned to lead the Lions to unprecedented success.
Under his leadership, Bellarmine captured Narrows League and District Championships every single year—remaining undefeated for nearly two decades.
His teams claimed 12 State Championships, with an astonishing nine consecutive titles from 2010–2018.
Bender’s squads produced six individual State Champions. The 2018 team etched its name in history with the lowest combined score ever recorded by any 4A girls or boys golf team—a staggering combined team score of 7-under-par.
His impact extended far beyond high school. Fifteen of his former players went on to compete in collegiate golf at schools such as Notre Dame, Washington State, Oregon State, Columbia, Western Washington, and Trinity Universities to name a few.
Bender’s excellence was recognized nationally.
In 2016, he was named USA Today National High School Girls Golf Coach of the Year and received the Tacoma Athletic Commission Frosty Westering Excellence in Coaching Award.
The following year, he became the first coach from Washington State to be honored as National High School Coaches Association Girls Golf Coach of the Year.
He is still very active in golf, playing 3 days a week and searching for his 6th Hole-in-One.
Through his extraordinary record, mentorship, and love of the game, Mark Bender leaves an enduring legacy at Bellarmine and in the world of high school golf.
JAN THIESSEN & JANET OLEJAR Girl Tennis Coach
During their four years together at the helm of Bellarmine’s Girls Tennis program, Jan Thiessen and Janet Olejar built a legacy of dominance, grit, and respect.
Under their leadership, the Lions won every Narrows League Championship during their tenure, captured numerous West Central District titles, and brought home two State Championships along with two State runner-up finishes—a true golden era for Bellarmine Tennis.
Their teams were led by standout Sonya Olejar, who achieved the rare feat of winning four consecutive 4A Singles State Championships, earning every accolade possible along the way. In 1992, the Lions clinched their second state crown thanks to the grit of underdog doubles partners Rachel Shepard and Cara Bubnick, whose upset victory secured the championship. Even in moments of high pressure—like Sonya losing her first-ever set in a high school match—the team rose to the occasion and delivered.
Former Bellarmine Athletic Director Ed Ploof summed it up best:
“Jan and Janet had tremendous success in their coaching tenure with girls tennis. Not only did they stack up wins on the court, but they also built up respect for our program by winning with humility and showing respect for our opponents. They were very well respected in the statewide tennis community.”
Beyond her time leading the Girls program, Jan also served as Head Coach of the Boys team in 1991 and later as Assistant Coach for the Girls team under Dick Snyder from 1996–2002, further extending her impact on Bellarmine tennis. After coaching, she continued to serve the Bellarmine community as a substitute teacher from 1996–2003, showing her enduring commitment to the school.
Champions of both excellence and perseverance, Jan Thiessen and Janet Olejar’s leadership forever shaped Bellarmine’s tennis legacy—building not only a program of champions, but also a culture of humility, respect, and lifelong impact.
JOE WATERS Boys Soccer Coach
For nearly three decades, Joe Waters led Bellarmine’s Boys Soccer program with passion, vision, and a standard of excellence that left a lasting mark on the school’s athletic tradition.
From 1992–2021, his teams captured numerous league and district championships, two State Championships, and the unforgettable 2004 National Championship. Also, as Girls Varsity Soccer Coach, he added another State Championship to his resume.
Joe’s leadership was recognized with multiple League Coach of the Year and All-Area Coach of the Year honors, as well as being named NSCAA Regional Coach of the Year in 2004. Under his guidance, countless athletes earned League MVP and All-Area MVP accolades, with many continuing their careers at the collegiate level.
Beyond the wins, Joe took pride in the integrity, teamwork, and sportsmanship his players displayed. He created experiences that broadened their horizons—from traveling to Alaska to taking the boys abroad to Ireland—shaping memories that lasted far beyond the field.
Before Bellarmine, Joe enjoyed a 23-year professional playing career that began in England with Leicester City and Grimsby Town, where he won consecutive promotions. He represented the Republic of Ireland at U15–U18 levels and earned two caps with the senior national team. His career then brought him to Tacoma and Canada, before serving as Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Pacific Lutheran University for five years.
At Bellarmine, Joe’s presence extended beyond the pitch—working as Campus Center Supervisor and morning bus driver, where his care for the school community was just as evident.
With his passion for the game and his dedication to developing not just athletes but people of character, Joe Waters’ legacy is forever woven into the fabric of Bellarmine Soccer.
CHUCK JOHNSTON
Sneeringer Award
Fr. Jack Sneeringer, S.J Award – Contributions to Bellarmine Athletics
Chuck Johnston grew up in a Wilson High School family.
When his 14 year old son Josh asked his mom if he could go to Bellarmine he was afraid of how his dad would react. Chuck enrolled his son at Bellarmine and has seen his children and his grandchildren thrive at Bellarmine. Chuck believes in the power of athletics at Bellarmine and has committed himself to serving Bellarmine athletics in every way possible.
For nearly three decades, Chuck Johnston has been at the heart of Bellarmine Athletics, serving as coach, announcer, booster leader, and tireless advocate for Lion sports. His 29 years of service reflect a spirit of dedication and community that defines the Fr. Jack Sneeringer Award.
As Booster Club President, Chuck helped create a true Bellarmine family—raising support through signature events like the Crab Feed, Garage Sale, Booster Barbecue, Booster Rooter Buses, and the Breakfast of Champions, which brought nationally recognized speakers such as Frosty Westering, Rick Neuheisel, and Mark Few to campus.
He was also “the voice of Bellarmine basketball” for more than two decades, announcing both boys and girls games, and chaired golf tournaments, pancake breakfasts, and countless other initiatives. Whether organizing seasonticket booster seating or halftime contests, Chuck always found ways to strengthen school spirit and support student-athletes.
A recipient of the inaugural Gipper Award and a member of the Board of Directors, Chuck has consistently championed the value of athletics in Bellarmine’s mission. His creativity, leadership, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on generations of Lions.
