Richard C. Flom, Class of 1948
One of the Vikings' first four-sport athletes, Richard Flom excelled at football, basketball, track, and tennis. He was a two-time champion at the 1946 Midwest Conference track championships, as a member of the mile relay team and in the 440-yard dash. His accomplishments in track garnered him the DeGoy Ellis Track Trophy for the most outstanding track performer. As a football standout, Flom was a member of three Midwest Conference Championship teams. The versatile back earned all-conference honors in 1947 after leading the Vikings with seven touchdowns and netting 666 yards of total offense -- 423 yards on the ground and 243 yards passing. Flom died September 9, 1991.
Daniel J. Galante, Class of 1987
Perhaps the most decorated player in the history of Lawrence football, Dan Galante was a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. He started all 37 games he played for the Vikings and totaled 371 tackles, 38 sacks, six fumble recoveries (including two for touchdowns), and two blocked punts. Galante helped lead the Vikings to the 1986 Midwest Conference title by recording 14 tackles in the 14-10 victory over Coe College. During his four-year career he led the team in tackles (97) and sacks (10 1/2) as a junior. Galange was named to seven All-America teams during his career and is the only athlete in Lawrence history to receive some form of All-America honors for four straight years. In addition, the defensive tackle was a four-year all-MWC selection.
Debra L. Jaryszak, Class of 1982
A three-time Athlete of the Year selection, Debra "Dr. J." Jaryszak earned 11 varsity letters during her Viking athletic career. Her achievements as a forward in basketball, a hitter in volleyball, and an outfielder in softball are unmatched. She earned all-conference honors in each of the sports at least once. She started in all 68 varsity basketball games at Lawrence and was a three-year captain. Her tenacity on the hardwood garnered her Team MVP honors twice and an invitation to travel with an elite Midwest college all-star basketball team. Her mark on the Vikings record book ranks her eighth in career-scoring (11.1 ppg), sixth in career field goals attempted (883), and third in single-game assists (ten). She was the first four-year letterwinner in volleyball history while serving as captain for three of those four years. On the ball diamond she was a pitcher's nightmare, as testified by her .429 career batting average.
Ken G. Laird, Class of 1931
Lawrence College football and basketball star and captain in both sports, Ken Laird was an all-around athlete and a three-time All-Midwest Conference football end. Involved on both offense and defense, his hard play was apparent to onlookers. In an October 13, 1928, football game versus Carleton College his all-around talent flashed, as he blocked a punt that later led to a touchdown pass of which he was on the receiving end. Laird's sure hands were often described by the press as leading to some of the most exciting plays during games. He went on to a successful football coaching career at Milwaukee County Day School and University School, posting a 189-43-13 record. His teams were undefeated in 12 seasons and won 17 conference titles. Laird died on January 18, 1999.
Dr. Ralph Landis
The name Ralph Landis is synonymous with athletics at Lawrence University. Dr. Landis served as team physician and part-time lecturer in hygiene at Lawrence from 1926 until his death in 1978. Known for his enthusiasm and dedication on and off the court, the spirit he brought to the playing surface was immeasurable. His steady hands treated athletes with skill and dedication. To the athletics department at Lawrence a day without Dr. Landis was like a day without a coach. In 1966, the Ralph V. Landis Health Center was constructed on the Lawrence campus in honor of his service to the university. In addition, one of the top annual athletic honors at Lawrence is the Landis Award, which is given to and athlete whose spirit and enthusiasm come closest to that of the long-time team physician.
Kate Leventhal, Class of 1983
At 5-foot-3 and 112 pounds, Kate Leventhal wasn't your typical tall and lanky cross country runner. She didn't possess the long strides that led many runners to the finish line. However, her stamina guided her to a place no female athlete at Lawrence had been before -- All-America status. Through strong winds, snowdrifts, and freezing temperatures, she challenged the 1981 NCAA Division III national cross country meet course at Carthage College with no fear. Finding herself in 40th place, with about a quarter mile to go, she showed her endurance, catching 24 runners at the end of the race to reserve a spot for the All-America recognition next to her name. She covered the 5,000 meter course in a time of 19:57, placing her 16th in a field of 95 runners.
Peter J. Thomas, Class of 1962
When Peter Thomas wrestled at the 1961-62 Midwest Conference championships, he was an underdog. He entered the tourney with an undistinguished 3-5 dual record and a bad knee. Although he was not the odds-on favorite, Thomas wrestled with the heart of a champion. He fought through the adversity of a reinjured knee -- and a dislocated finger during a semifinal match -- to go on to win the 191-pound conference wrestling title. Thomas' championship helped lead Lawrence to the first Midwest Conference wrestling championship in school history. Thomas enjoyed similar success in football and baseball. As a football player he earned three letters and was a two-time honorable mention all-conference selection. In addition, he was the team's most valuable lineman in 1961. His ballpark experience was just as impressive, as Thomas was a three-year letterwinner and two-time all-conference performer. He served as team captain in 1962.
