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OWENS NEW ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME SET TO INDUCT FIRST MEMBERS

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Aug. 15, 2016 – In honor of its 50-year athletic history which began with the 1966 Penta Tech Jaguars Men’s basketball team, Owens Community College has established an Athletic Hall of Fame to recognize those individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on Owens athletics and the community.

“It is important to me that we honor those student-athletes who gave so much to Owens Community College during their time on campus,” said J.D. Ettore, Owens athletic director. “The goal of my office is to make sure that our student-athletes are well-rounded individuals when they leave Owens Community College.”

Members will be inducted on October 15 during an inaugural awards ceremony on the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus. Full details on the ceremony and events of the induction day, will be mailed to the charter members as well as Owens Athletic alumni, Owens Board of Directors and Owens Administration.

The charter members for Owens Athletic Hall of Fame are:

• Leroy “Cot” Marquette – Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director, 1966-1980
• Jeff Massey – Men’s Basketball, 1991-1993
• Stephanie Champine – Volleyball, 2006-2007
• Michael Rickard – Athletic Director, 2000-2010
• Jim Penix – Men’s Basketball, 1966-1968
• NJCAA Men’s Basketball National Champions, 1991-1992

Inductees must have met one of four criteria: received postseason athletic honors while attending Owens, successfully coached at Owens, coached or received honors at an institution beyond Owens, or be a contributor or supporter of Owens athletic programs. In addition, inductees must also be a solid citizen in the community, completed either a two- or four-year degree and be two years removed from completion at Owens.

“First priority for our student-athletes is academics but I also expect athletic intensity and commitment to community service and social responsibility,” said Ettore. “Our local communities are great and they provide a lot of support not just for athletics, but for every department at Owens Community College.  In return we put our student-athletes to work in the community to help them understand that by paying it forward you are making a difference in people’s lives.”

For more information on Owens athletics or the new Hall of Fame, please visit www.owensexpress.com.