The 2021 Pratt Community College Hall of Fame class will be formally inducted Saturday, October 9, at 11:30 a.m., in a ceremony at the college. Being inducted are members of the 1959 Men’s Tennis team, members of the 1961 Men’s Tennis team and Glenda Swiantek.

The 1959 Men’s Tennis Team was the first National Championship won by any Beaver athletic squad. Members of the team were: Tom Brungardt, Larry Rhodes, Ivan Williams, Delbert Bohling, and Jerry Hazlett. Brungardt and Rhodes captured the National Championship in doubles that year and Rhodes placed fourth in singles giving PCC the title. To qualify for the National Tennis Meet at that time, individuals had to win the State Tournament. The National Tournament was held in Rochester, MN. Brungardt and Rhodes will also have their own plaque recognizing their National Championship.

In 1961, the Beavers again captured a National title this time led by sophomore Terry D. Smith, from Larned. Terry had been the National runner-up in singles his freshman year, and as a sophomore, Terry had an incredible undefeated season. Terry defeated fellow team mate Jim Kimberly in the championship match.  Richard Green and Jim Kimberly placed third in doubles that year to help clinch the title. Other members of the team were Tom Jarnagin, Frank Hattabaugh, and Bob Brown. Again the tournament was held in Rochester, MN. 

Glenda Swiantek returned to PCC as a non-traditional student and was a standout on the women’s tennis team from 1985-87. During her career, Glenda played #1 singles and #1 doubles, and was named Academic All-American in 1986. Glenda also was very active at PCC in other areas including student government, Phi Theta Kappa, Who’s Who Among American Junior Colleges, Foster Family Club, and tutoring students in English and Algebra. 

Following the luncheon, the Hall of Fame members will move to the Walter Blake Tennis Complex to have a reception for family and friends. Persons are invited to come and see the newly inducted members as well as meet members of the 2021-22 Pratt Community College Tennis Team. This will occur from approximately 1:30-3:30 on that Saturday.

“I want to first thank our Hall of Fame Committee; Kurt McAfee, Tim Renner, Carmen Forest, Don Schwartz, and Greg Wade, for their careful consideration of a new class,” remarked PCC Athletic Director Tim Swartzendruber. “I am pleased we will have such a great return of two National title teams. It will be a great event.”