Since its inception, Marian University has honored an impressive list of local and national sports figures at the annual Clayton Family Circle of Honor and Wall of Fame Induction Dinner. This year was no exception.
The event brought together nearly 1,000 alumni, students, and friends at Bankers Life Fieldhouse to honor Indiana legends Lou Holtz (Hall of Fame football coach and current ESPN analyst) and Bobby “Slick” Leonard (Hall of Fame basketball coach and current Pacers radio color man) and Marian University alumni Kyle Milbee ’01 (tennis) and Wesley Hayden ’02 (baseball).
Few things are more powerful and inspiring than honoring and celebrating student-athletes of the past and leaders of tomorrow. If you weren’t able to make it, here are must-see moments from this fantastic evening:
1. We are the champions.
Football, cycling, women’s basketball and one of our track athletes all captured NAIA national championships this year!
2. But we couldn't do it without a little help from our friends.President Elsener talks about how athletics have been a great catalyst for growth at Marian University.
3. We have a history rich with great student-athletes.
Wall of Fame inductee Kyle Milbee ’01 committed to playing tennis at Marian Universtiy before we had courts.
4. A conversation with Bobby "Slick" Leonard reveals the first time he said, "Boom Baby,” his wife Nancy deserves credit for the telethon that saved the Pacers, and he was the first choice ahead of Bob Knight for the IU coaching job.
Did you know the Indiana Pacers sometimes practiced at Marian College during their ABA glory days?
5. Lou Holtz confessed to a few run-ins with nuns, listed the four things everyone needs in life, and even performed a magic trick!
You're either growing or your dying.
6. We announced an exciting gift and new project at a press conference just before the Clayton event.
Thank you Mike and Becky Weaver for your generosity and commitment to Marian University students.