Basketball

Henry Putnam ’25, one of the first students to play on the recently built football fields on the Randolph Campus, became a star athlete under first-year coach Al Smith, who himself became a legend.

Putnam was captain of SPA’s football team his senior year and served as a kicker, receiver, and quarterback throughout the season.  That year, the team had decisive wins over Cretin (26-6), Johnson High (12-0), University High (12-0), and capped off their season with an impressive 6-6 tie with undefeated Blake. Putnam was especially noted in the Now and Then for his play on the field during the Blake game: “The good old passing combination, Read to Putnam, once more to the rescue, when Putnam received the ball on a short pass and dove head-long across the line through three Blake tacklers to score." The game was noted as being one of the best games the Academy boys had ever played as of 1925, and Coach Al Smith would go on to remember Putnam as one of his most memorable players almost a quarter of a century later. In addition to football, Putnam was also the captain of SPA baseball and basketball teams and was awarded the Senior Athletic Cup. 

Henry Putnam would go on to play at Williams College where he was awarded the Brooks Trophy, recognizing his athletics contributions as a senior in 1929. 

As a member of the football and baseball teams, and captain of the champion intramural basketball team, Don McNeely was valued for his athletic abilities.

A right tackle on the football team his senior year, Don helped his team to impressive wins: 14-0 over Breck, 7-0 over Harding, and ended that year with a 7-0 win over rival Blake. In the 7-0 win over Harding, McNeely made an impressive interception to keep the opposing team scoreless and was noted in the Now and Then as a star player in the game against Blake, breaking up numerous passes and rushing the passer on multiple occasions.

On the baseball field, McNeely was an integral part of the Academy program. As shortstop and pitcher, McNeely helped his team win over St. Thomas and Blake and was noted for his consistency on the pitching mound as the season progressed. 

As a classmate and teammate to Joe Schwab '33, Don led an effort to establish the Joe Schwab Award in 1965 to recognize those who embodied the similar athletic and leadership qualities that Schwab possessed.

Jep Knox '40 was a multi-sport athlete, captaining the football team and intramural basketball team, while also playing baseball. Additionally, Knox was named to the "All-Time Academy Football Team" and received the Junior Athletic Cup twice and the Harvard Cup for his athletic and academic ability.

Jep was known as a star football player at SPA, as he helped his team to an undefeated senior season with big wins over De La Salle (30-0), Blake (12-6 and 7-0) and Patrick Henry (33-0). In the final game of the season against Blake, Knox shone by scoring the only points of the game with the lone touchdown in the fourth quarter.

On the baseball team, Knox, along with captain John Doar '40, would go on to lead the team to a 5-3 season and complete one of the most successful seasons in athletics history at SPA. Following graduation, Jep attended Carleton College where he interrupted his studies and football career to serve in the Armed Forces in World War II. He went on to finish his studies at Carleton, eventually becoming the football coach at the school before finishing his coaching career down the road at Macalester College.

John Doar '40 was one of the best football and baseball players during his time at SPA. Hailing from New Richmond, Wisconsin, Doar served as captain of the intramural basketball team for two years, captain of the baseball team, sports editor for the Now and Then, and Head of Class for two years.

Doar’s athletic prowess, along with his brother Tom '39, helped the SPA baseball team to memorable seasons in 1937 and 1939 and a memorable sweep of Blake during his final season in the spring of 1940. In football, John also excelled and was best known for making a key interception in the team's 1939 7-0 victory over Blake. The football team would go undefeated during the 1939 season.

Bill Frenzel '46,  one of four brothers to attend St. Paul Academy, was known for being a talented multi-sport athlete. Bill served as a co-captain of the football team, member of the baseball team, captain of the intramural basketball team, and was named to the All-Academy Football Team. Frenzel was recognized by his peers in the SPAR yearbook as being one of the best linebackers in Academy history and one of the quickest players on the basketball court. 

During Frenzel's senior year, the football team recorded a record of 4-2-1 and claimed impressive wins over Blake and Shattuck. Along with teammates Robert Bratnober '46 and John Driscoll '47, Frenzel scored an impressive 130 points in seven games during the season. 

In basketball, Frenzel played center and was a consistent scorer. During the 1946 season, the team would go 11-3 in intramural play and claim wins against Washington High School and Blake School.  In the final game of his basketball career against Blake he scored the final two baskets of the game to claim a 58-57 win for the team and scored 38 points, an Academy record.

William “Bill” Langford '53 was a talented athlete and was noted by classmates and nominators Ed Stringer, Mac Seymour, and George May for his standout skills in football, basketball, and baseball. On the football field, Bill played quarterback for three years and received All-League honors his senior season. He served as captain of the basketball team for two seasons.

Bill was most known for his pitching talents on the baseball team. He helped the team to a league title his senior year, recording two no-hitters during his time at St. Paul Academy.

Throughout his time at SPA, Bill and fellow classmates noted the impact of coach Roy "Coach" Rasmussen, who taught the student-athletes that in order to win they had to believe in themselves. In 1953 St. Paul Academy would win the Heffelfinger Trophy, an award recognizing the top school in the Minnesota Independent School League for its success in athletics. Langford was awarded the Boys’ Athletic Bowl given in memory of Thomas Frenzel '49 to a member of the boys’ varsity teams for exceptional performance and leadership. Bill was also the recipient of the Senior Athletic Award in an impressive two years in a row. The Now and Then noted, “Especially gratifying was [Bill’s] no-hit, no-run victory over Cretin, the first time since 1950 that any Academy team has defeated the Raiders. Bill’s leadership, spirit, and general all-around athletic ability have been a great factor in the success of the Academy team’s this year.” Bill noted that he was especially proud of his Class of 1953 for their academic and athletics successes.

Pete Frenzel '54 was a four-year member of the varsity football team, two-year member of the varsity baseball team, captain of the basketball team, while also running track. In his senior year, Pete was awarded the Senior Athletics Trophy, wrote for the Now and Then as the sports editor, and was named an All-Conference Football honoree two years in a row and an All-Conference performer in Basketball.

In football, Frenzel had a phenomenal senior season helping lead the offense to a 7-0 win over Shattuck, a 27-0 win against Breck, and a 26-13 win over Cretin, earning himself All-Conference fullback honors at the conclusion of the season. During basketball season, Frenzel led the team in scoring, helping the team finish with notable wins over Breck, Prior Lake, and Wilson. Entering the spring season, Frenzel's athletic ability really dazzled: he won nearly every shot-put event at track and field meets and was a key member of multiple winning relays. Frenzel was named the SPA Athlete of the Year on June 7, 1954 and would conclude his SPA career with 11 letters in four different sports. He was praised by his peers for his relentless work ethic and determination to keep improving. 

Pete would later come back to SPA to teach German and coach track and field.

A talented athlete and inspiring coach and teacher, W.T. “Tom” Doar III '69, has had a profound contribution to the athletics history of St. Paul Academy and the merged St. Paul Academy and Summit School. Doar's legacy at St. Paul Academy is marked by his outstanding prowess in football, basketball, and golf and his dedication to excellence throughout his high school career.

In football, Doar exemplified leadership as a team captain and earned two Varsity letters and a distinguished spot on the All-Conference team during his senior year. His strategic acumen and on-field performance left an indelible mark on SPA's football program.

On the basketball court, he shined as a four-year starter and team captain his junior and senior year. His skill and leadership were further recognized with two All-Conference Awards, underscoring his pivotal role in SPA's basketball successes.

In golf, he continued to excel as a four-year team member and a captain his senior year. His dedication to precision and sportsmanship earned him two All-Conference Awards, cementing his reputation as a formidable golfer. In addition to his athletic accolades, Doar was honored with the Athletic Cup and received the prestigious Joseph P. Schwab Award his senior year which highlighted his character, leadership, and overall contribution to SPA's community.

Beyond his remarkable achievements as a student-athlete, Doar's commitment to SPA extended to coaching. Returning to his alma mater as a teacher and coach, he coached for various teams, including football, basketball, and golf. While at SPA, he taught primarily in the Lower School and served as the Interim Director of Admissions. His influence and mentorship touched numerous young athletes, shaping their athletic journeys and fostering a culture of excellence.

The induction of Tom Doar III ’69 into the St. Paul Academy and Summit School Athletics Hall of Fame celebrates not only his remarkable achievements and leadership on the field, court, and course but also his enduring legacy as a teacher, coach, and role model within the SPA community.

Jonathan "Rip" Burgwald '84, was a talented athlete recognized for his athletics prowess and leadership both at St. Paul Academy and Summit School and at the United States Air Force Academy.

Rip’s athletic journey began early and he established himself as a formidable presence on the field, court, and track. In football, Rip started on varsity as a freshman, competing as both a running back and linebacker. He earned numerous accolades including All-Conference honors as a junior and senior, Metro All-Star team selections, and was named Conference MVP his senior year. In basketball, Rip excelled as a three-year letter winner and co-captain in his senior year and in track, Rip was a four-year letter winner and team captain his senior year. He competed in the shot put, discus, and mile relay and qualified for regionals in both discus and the mile relay.

Rip Burgwald's outstanding achievements culminated in being awarded both the Boys Athletic Bowl, which is given to the top male athlete in the school, as well as the Colonel Griggs Athletics Trophy.

At the Air Force Academy, Rip played four years as a linebacker and earned three letters. He was named captain of special teams early in his career, earning All-WAC Honors his senior year. Notably, he led the team with 143 tackles garnering All-American status. He would be honored with the prestigious Brian Bullard Award, which is known as the "Air Force Heisman," and recognizes qualities of unselfishness, effort, team commitment, and pride.

Rip Burgwald's impact extended beyond individual accolades as his leadership and dedication were instrumental in Air Force's victories over Army and Navy, as well as their 1987 Commander in Chief Trophy win, which granted the team a meeting with the President of the United States at the White House.

Jonathan "Rip" Burgwald's induction into the Athletics Hall of Fame stands as a testament to his exceptional achievements and leadership as an athlete and teammate. 

Gerard Lagos '88, a standout athlete in soccer, basketball, and track, has embodied what it means to be an athlete throughout his life. 

At SPA, Gerard immediately impacted St. Paul Academy and Summit School athletics, playing 5 years of varsity soccer from eighth grade through his senior year. During that time, he received multiple MVP honors and All-State recognitions. He was a Dave Winfield Award finalist, the Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year, the regional Gatorade Player of the Year, and the Minnesota State High School League Mr. Soccer in 1987. Gerard was ranked the number one recruit coming out of Minnesota in 1988, and a newscaster at the time referred to him as “the Pelé of Minnesota soccer.”

Gerard was also a force in varsity basketball for three years and contributed significantly to the track and field team. He co-captained the basketball team his junior and senior years and had a reputation as a defensive specialist, press breaker, and rebounder who played with formidable physicality. He brought determination and versatility to the track and field team, where he was competitive in every event but the pole vault. 

Throughout his high school career, his leadership and athleticism earned him many accolades, and in his senior year, SPA recognized his athletic accomplishments by awarding him the Frenzel Athletics Bowl.

Gerard earned a scholarship to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to play under legendary U.S. Soccer Coach, Bob Gansler. He excelled athletically and academically at UWM, where he was recognized as All-Conference, All-Region, and an Academic All-American. He was inducted into the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 2005. 

In 1989, Gerard represented the United States in Saudi Arabia at the FIFA soccer Under-20 World Cup. He was a key contributor to the team's historic fourth-place finish. In the early ‘90s, he played professionally in France for two and a half years before returning to play a dozen years for the Minnesota Thunder. The Thunder made four national championship appearances, winning a national title in 1999. He was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame in 2002.  

Gerard’s commitment to soccer extends beyond his playing days. He has coached extensively at grassroots levels and beyond, including at SPA, The U.S. Olympic Development Program, and with the St. Paul Blackhawks, where he has impacted numerous young athletes. His dedication to community engagement and youth development underscores his enduring impact on Minnesota soccer.

Lagos's journey serves as an inspiration for future generations of athletes. In sports and life, he embodies the values of perseverance, dedication, and leadership. St. Paul Academy and Summit School is proud to induct him into our Athletics Hall of Fame.

A renowned soccer player, Tony Sanneh ’90 was known as a gifted scorer and a crafty playmaker. He was an integral part of the nationally recognized St. Paul Academy and Summit School boys’ soccer program in the late 1980s.  Tony, along with teammate Manny Lagos, lettered as 8th graders on a team that finished 3rd in state. He helped lead his team to State Championships in 1986 and 1987 and a runner-up finish in 1989. The ’88 team was named "One of the Best Teams in the United States'' that year and went on a 63-game winning streak over two and a half seasons. Tony was a two-time All-State selection and was awarded the Frenzel Athletics Bowl at commencement his senior year. 

Tony also led the basketball team in scoring his senior year, was Conference Player of the Year, and represented the metro area in the State All-Star game winning the Dunk Contest and being named honorable mention All-State. On top of these already impressive accomplishments, Sanneh was also 3-time letter winner, 2-time captain, and 1st doubles player on the Tennis Team.

Tony attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where he became one of the most decorated student-athletes in the history of the Milwaukee Men's Soccer program, setting school records for points (138), goals (53), and assists (32). He currently holds the record for most points and assists with the program. In addition to being named an All-Conference First Team honoree, he was recognized as an NSCAA All-Mideast performer as a freshman and sophomore and earned All-America honors. He also helped the Panthers to their highest national ranking to date at No. 9 and an automatic berth to the 1990 NCAA Tournament. 

He went on to play professional soccer, eventually earning a spot on the United States Men’s National Soccer Team. Tony would make 333 professional soccer appearances, netting 97 goals between 1994 and 2009. He ended his national team career with forty-three international appearances and three goals, and played a significant role in the 2002 World Cup, where he started all five games.

In 2003, he founded The Sanneh Foundation to leverage what he saw as soccer’s unique potential to create positive social change for youth. Serving as President and CEO, Tony is a driving force in the Twin Cities soccer and nonprofit communities, empowering youth and improving the lives of those in the community. 

In addition to his executive leadership role with The Sanneh Foundation, Tony serves as a Sports Envoy on behalf of the Sports United Division of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. In this capacity, he has worked in numerous countries including Cyprus, Bangladesh, Kenya, Cote D'Ivore, Bahrain, Haiti, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Malaysia, and Bolivia to further American cultural values of diversity and gender equity initiatives.

Mary "Molly" Priedeman Brown ’39, a lifelong athlete, excelled in tennis and golf. At Summit School, she learned fencing and was a member of the girls' basketball and field hockey teams.  

As a sophomore in the fall of 1936, Molly’s fencing abilities helped the freshman/sophomore team to defeat the junior/senior team 2-1 and contributed to the team's closely fought 1-0 win over St. Mary's Hall in 1937 and the team's 5-1 rout of St. Mary's in the fall of 1938.

Molly was on Summit’s varsity basketball team in her junior and senior years, and the team won impressively over University High in 1938 as well as in close contests against Oak Hall and Northrop Collegiate School. Later in life she attained championship status in trap and skeet shooting, and became a private pilot.  

Patricia Rogers Brown '39, was active in Summit School’s fencing class in 1937 and was a member of the girls' basketball and field hockey teams.  

A member of Summit’s varsity basketball team, Pat contributed to narrow victories over Oak Hall School for Girls and Northrop Collegiate School as well as to an impressive win over University High School in 1938.

Pat’s experience as a fencer, where her Summit freshman/sophomore team won over the junior/senior team 2-1, helped move the Summit fencing team to 1-1 victory over St. Mary's Hall in 1937, followed by the team's decisive 5-1 defeat of St. Mary's in late 1938. Pat’s other sporting activities included tennis, golf and water skiing.

Jean West '45 was a member of the girls' basketball and field hockey teams while at Summit School. In addition, Jean served as captain of the basketball team during the 1943-44 season.

In field hockey, Jean was part of a talented class of players that defeated the seniors during the 1943-44 year by a score of 2-1. She would also go on to help her team to a 6-0 win over Derham Hall in the fall of 1944. 

In basketball, Jean helped her team to an exciting win over Northrop during the 1944-45 year.

Nancy Gaver Priedeman '46 was a member of the girls' basketball, field hockey, and speedball teams while at Summit School. Nancy was also the captain of both the basketball and field hockey teams her senior year.

In basketball, Nancy helped the senior team to a 6-1 record against the other grades at Summit in the school tournament in 1946.

In field hockey, Nancy was part of an impressive team which defeated Derham Hall in the fall of 1944 by a score of 6-0 and her junior grade defeated the seniors 4-2 and the sophomores 20-4 in the intramural tournament. 

Joan Adams Mondale '48 was a member of the girls' basketball, speedball, and field hockey teams while at Summit School. Joan was also the captain of both the basketball and field hockey teams her senior year. In addition to her athletic abilities, she was also known for her table tennis skills and was featured in the Minneapolis Morning Tribune in 1950 for her talents. 

During her junior and senior years at Summit, Joan helped her team to close finishes against St. Mary's and Northrop in basketball during the annual play-days against both schools. 

Following graduation from Summit, Joan would go on to become a known supporter of the arts and nonprofit organizations and served as Second Lady of the United States from 1977-1981. 

Jean Carlton Whitaker Ambler was a multi-sport star at Summit School. She was named captain of the basketball team for three years, captain of the field hockey team during the 1946-47 season, a talented member of the tennis team, and founded the figure skating club at Summit.

In basketball, Jean helped the team to an impressive 17-4 victory over Northrop in 1948. In the spring of 1949, she helped her senior class to a 15-15 tie against the seniors from Northrop. 

In tennis, Jean won the Summit singles tennis intramural tournament for three years in a row (1947 to1949) and teamed up with Aleeta Engelbert '49 to win the doubles tournament in 1948.

Ann Luyten Deiperink '53 was a talented multi-sport athlete while at Summit School. She was captain of the girls' basketball team for three years, captain of the volleyball team one year, played field hockey, and was an impressive tennis player. In addition, Ann was the Vice-President of the Summit Girls Athletic Association during the 1950-51 year.

During the 1950-51 field hockey season, Ann and the team defeated Northrop 5-0 and defeated St. Mary's Hall 5-4 in their annual competition. During her junior year, Ann and her classmates defeated the sophomore team 7-0 and tied St. Mary's 2-2. 

In tennis, Ann teamed up with Laura Floan Boone '53 to win the doubles championship in the annual Summit intramural tournament against fellow classmates during their freshmen, sophomore, junior, and senior years. The duo would also travel to play at the Rochester Invitational, the St. Paul Tennis Club and other private clubs in the Twin Cities by invitation. The impressive teamwork and skills that the two showed on the court was noted in The Flame for multiple years. In addition, Ann was a multi-year singles champion on the tennis court throughout her time at Summit School.

Penelope “Penny” Stout Shanks '58  played field hockey and basketball, but was renowned for her tennis skills during her time at Summit School. At Summit, Penny served as the volleyball team captain and played second singles for the St. Paul Tennis Club, winning the Jr. Whiteman State Tennis Cup in 1957. She was also selected as one of five Widjiwagan campers for their Voyageurs canoe trip in 1957.

Penny attended Middlebury College where she was on the varsity field hockey, volleyball, and softball teams for four years and spent three years on the varsity basketball team. She was also a member of the Middlebury Alpine Ski Team her freshman year. In her words “I was practicing the giant slalom with the team before a meet, I made a turn around a pole, my skis didn’t catch the snow, and I flew off a high cliff. I ended up knocked out and hanging by my stomach over a tree trunk. After this, I decided to ski for fun and to play varsity basketball.”

After graduating from Middlebury, Penny moved to Winchendon, Massachusetts to teach English at Murdock High School. She also competed in the Women’s Volleyball League and was named MVP in 1963. Following a brief return to Minnesota where she taught at Summit School, Penny and her husband moved to Keene, New Hampshire where she taught at Keene High School for twenty years, and was awarded the New England Association of Teachers of English Outstanding Teacher Award in 1997. 

In Keene, she was a member of the Racquet Club, and was selected to play doubles against other teams in New Hampshire and Vermont, compiling a 21-5 record. She also played second base for ten years for the Keene Fast Pitch Softball League, compiling an impressive .400 batting average each year, leading the team in stolen bases and runs scored, and helped her team to state titles in 1980, 1984, and 1985, and went on to play in two national tournaments where her team placed third in 1985.  

Penny also served as the field hockey and softball coach for fifteen years while at Keene High School. In 1986, the varsity softball team won the only state title Keene softball has won to date and lost in overtime in their second state title game in 1989. Penny and her team were honored in 1989 with a letter from the New Hampshire House of Representatives recognizing their hard work and dedication.

Jane Davis Bennett played field hockey, volleyball, and basketball while attending Summit School.

As a member of the field hockey team, Jane was part of a talented sophomore class which claimed the field hockey intramural championship during the 1956-57 year. As seniors two years later, Jane and the team were once again the champions with a 3-0 win during the 1958-59 year.

In volleyball, Jane and the sophomores defeated the freshmen team 28-26 in the volleyball intramural tournament before losing to the juniors 22-19 in the championship. During her junior year, Jane helped her class to a narrow win before losing the championship to the seniors in another close match. The team would go on to defeat the Northrop junior class 23-21 during the Summit-Northrop Play Day on February 12, 1958.

In basketball, once again, Jane and the sophomore team were dominant and defeated the juniors 26-5 and the seniors 31-9 to claim the intramural basketball championship. As juniors, Jane and the team not only won the intramural basketball tournament with a 25-6 win in the championship, but also defeated St. Mary's Hall when the team came to play Summit.

Jane excelled on the tennis court regularly winning statewide invitational tournaments in Rochester, MN with her doubles partner Hilary Raudenbush Magnuson '59. She was also an exceptional alpine skier. 

Widely regarded as the best athlete in her class, Jane would have thrived in the post-Title IX era, which passed thirteen years after her graduation. Jane stated in an interview that “If Title IX had been in place when I was in school it would have meant everything to me. I would have pursued every athletic opportunity to the fullest. I would have wanted to do it all.”

A four sport athlete during her time at Summit School, Hilary Raudenbush Magnuson '59 has been an athlete her entire life. Her nominators, Fritz Magnuson '66, Mike Brown '66, and Ann Dieperink '53 say she was known for her talents and tenacity on the tennis court.

Introduced to field hockey, volleyball, basketball, and tennis by Maxine (“Gunny”) Gunsolly at Summit School, Hilary was part of a talented class of athletes, including her doubles partner Janie (Davis) Bennett '59. The two put together a number of impressive performances, going undefeated an impressive six years, and Hilary would go on to win the singles tournament hosted by the school her senior year.

Hilary attended Smith College where she competed in volleyball, basketball, tennis, fencing, squash, crew, and her favorite soccer. She would be named to the varsity teams for tennis, basketball, and soccer and given the competition limitations before Title IX,  the teams competed between grades and dorm houses. In 1963, Hilary was one of four  seniors to be awarded the coveted “S PIN” in recognition of dedication to the athletic program and other areas of school life. 

Hilary returned to St. Paul Academy and Summit School as a teacher in 1983 and was a member of the Lower School faculty until her retirement in 2004. During this time, she established a summer tennis program which grew to include over eighty students. Hilary would also work with the Lower School Athletic Director, Geri Meyer, to start a jump rope club to help students prepare for the annual Jump-A-Thon in support of the American Heart Association, and partnered with Dr. Tim Elchert to coach the Lower School’s co-ed soccer program for a number of years. Geri and Hilary also worked to include line dancing and step aerobics into the conditioning mini courses which were regularly demonstrated during Lower School Open Houses. Her lifelong passion for athletics has had a significant impact on the entire SPA community.

Elizabeth “Lisa” O’Brien ’73 was a talented tennis and basketball player at Summit School and was a member of the first graduating class of the merged St. Paul Academy and Summit School. As one of the top all-around female athletes at Summit in the years before Title IX, Elizabeth was a dominant tennis player who competed on both the girls’ and boys’ varsity tennis teams. Classmate Bob Mairs, a member of the boys’ tennis team, says that “Elizabeth motivated the team to play better and she could hold her own against anyone.”

She lettered in all twelve seasons that she competed in athletics and received a boys’ tennis letter her senior year. She was the inaugural Girls’ Athletic Award recipient her senior year, which recognized her for her athletic talents and accomplishments. 

Elizabeth attended Smith College, where her natural gift for athletics made her a strong competitor who played on the varsity tennis, basketball, squash, field hockey, and lacrosse teams. 

Following college, Elizabeth coached multiple high school and collegiate sports. She spent over 20 years as a squash competitor and teaching pro. A lifelong “student of the game,” she obtained a masters’ degree in Physical Education. Tom Doar '69 calls her “a terrific athlete -- versatile, accomplished, an athlete who did it all well.  Her poise, awareness and determination coupled with her terrific athletic ability allowed her to excel on multiple levels and multiple sports. She is clearly deserving of this Hall of Fame induction.”  

Sports have played a role throughout the life of Juliette Brynteson Nelson '76.  Her interest in athletics at SPA evolved into her competing in collegiate soccer, to later becoming a coach and advocate for athletics.

Growing up with two older brothers (Jim ’72 and Richard ’73), Julie played football and other sports with them throughout childhood. At St. Paul Academy and Summit School, Julie served as the team manager for boys’ soccer, compiling statistics and working with legendary SPA coach Buzz Lagos. Working with Buzz, Julie was able to study the game of soccer from the sidelines, and later to develop her skills in important summer playing opportunities he identified for her in the Twin Cities.

This set the stage for her collegiate career at Harvard after brother Jim suggested she join the women’s soccer program in its initial season. In its formative years, Julie's leadership and offensive prowess were instrumental in Harvard's success, and she would help the team secure its first two Ivy League titles and achieve an impressive record of 36-5-3 over three years. At this time Title IX was pushing educational institutions across the US to promote athletic programs for women. Julie’s contributions extended beyond her efforts on the field, as she worked behind the scenes to develop the program and build the camaraderie that shaped and ultimately defined Harvard Women's Soccer’s ethos during its formative years, and, alongside her teammates and coaches, helped establish an enduring foundation of excellence. Upon induction into Harvard's Varsity Club Hall of Fame in 1999, Julie acknowledged the pivotal role that sports played in her life, shaping her journey far beyond the playing field.

From playing soccer in the highlands of Papua New Guinea where she served as a Peace Corps volunteer to playing in Haiti where she and her husband were involved in humanitarian work to pursuing a teaching and coaching career in independent schools, Julie has long used sports as a way to connect with those around her. She has also coached a wide range of teams from youth to collegiate level players and worked to foster community through sport by working to support and encourage participation in athletics. 

In honoring Julie Brynteson Nelson, we celebrate not only her athletic achievements but also her commitment to sportsmanship, community, and the values that define the spirit of the St. Paul Academy and Summit School Athletics Hall of Fame. And we celebrate decades of growth of opportunities for girls and women in sport and the importance of faculty mentorship as embodied by Buzz Lagos in his time at SPA.

Toni Lagos Cainkar '78 was a leader in athletics and achieved remarkable success that left a lasting impact on the legacy of girls’ sports at St. Paul Academy and Summit School.

At SPA, Toni demonstrated unparalleled dedication and excellence as a student-athlete. She served as captain of both the basketball and track and field teams, embodying leadership on and off the court and field. She was the recipient of twelve letters across basketball, track and field, cross country, and soccer during her four years at SPA, a testament to her versatility and skill.

Toni's achievements extended beyond participation, as she set school records in numerous track and field events and tied for the second-most points scored in the conference during the 1975-1976 basketball season. Her prowess on the court and track earned her widespread recognition, including multiple "Athlete of the Month" awards from local newspapers and was a finalist for the prestigious Dave Winfield Award, which honored the most outstanding student-athletes in the Twin Cities area.

Following her stellar high school career, Toni continued to excel at Brown University, where she played basketball and served as captain her junior and senior years. Her impact was profound, earning national recognition as the record holder for most blocked shots in women's basketball at the time. Additionally, her athleticism extended to track and field, where she was named to the All-Ivy League Team by Ivy League coaches and secured conference titles in the 100-meter hurdles and the 4x100 relay.

Toni Lagos Cainkar's induction into the St. Paul Academy and Summit School Athletics Hall of Fame honors her enduring legacy of sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and athletic achievements. Her journey from a standout high school athlete to a record-setting collegiate competitor is a testament to her dedication, skill, and enduring impact on the world of sports.

Elizabeth “Beth” Lilly '81's induction into the St. Paul Academy and Summit School Athletics Hall of Fame, honors and recognizes her exceptional achievements as a standout athlete and leader in women’s athletics. Throughout her time at St. Paul Academy and Summit School, she played five different sports and showcased both athletic skill and leadership throughout her high school career.

Beth's tennis career at SPA was nothing short of legendary as she played varsity tennis for an impressive five years, achieving remarkable success. During her time competing, her team clinched the State Championship four times, and Beth won the State Doubles Title twice, first in 1979 with Elizabeth Mairs and again in 1980 with Becky Hart. Her leadership culminated in captaining the team her senior year.

In golf, Beth pioneered the first girls' varsity golf team her senior year at SPA where she not only captained the team but also became the first girl from SPA to qualify and compete in the High School State Golf Tournament where her brother Jim, served as her caddy. In basketball, Beth was a mainstay on the varsity basketball team for four years, serving as captain her senior year. She also competed on the varsity soccer team for two years and was a member of the varsity track and field team beginning her freshman year.

Following SPA, Beth continued to excel in athletics at Hobart William Smith Colleges, where she played varsity tennis and soccer, captaining the soccer team her senior year. She also helped begin the rowing program, which has since become a varsity program for both men and women.

Beth’s ability to be a consummate team player is evident in her ability to inspire others as well as lean on her teammates to achieve success. She recalls the invaluable guidance of figures like Coach Cliff Caine in tennis and Coach Tom Doar in basketball, along with the steadfast support of her doubles partners and teammates for helping her reach her goals. Beth’s impressive accomplishments and achievements stand as a testament to perseverance, leadership, and a lifelong dedication to sportsmanship.

For Cathy Paper '85, athletics was and continues to be an important part of her life. A four-sport athlete at St. Paul Academy and Summit School, Cathy was a talented tennis player and member of the basketball, track and field, and softball teams, earning fourteen varsity letters and captain honors five times over the course of her SPA career.

In tennis, Cathy helped lead her team to three state championships, winning the individual state doubles championship as a junior. A captain her senior year, she led her team to an impressive 11-5 record against some of the top schools in the state and a third-place overall finish. She also partnered with teammate Cynthia Wang ’86 to claim the region doubles championship and a state runner-up finalist.

On the track and field team, as an eighth grader, right as middle schoolers were being allowed to play on Varsity sports, Cathy set the school record in the 3200m and earned All-Conference honors. Outside of St. Paul Academy and Summit School, she set a top-five record at the Grandma’s Marathon with a time of 3:33 for the U18 division.

Cathy was awarded the Girls’ Athletics Bowl for her exceptional performance and leadership, along with the Headmaster’s Bowl, awarded by the Headmaster in consultation with the faculty and given to an individual who makes significant contributions to important aspects of school life. Mr. Harris, SPA’s headmaster at the time, praised Cathy’s athletic and academic achievements, her work on the Student Activities Council and as editor of The Rubicon, and noted her enthusiasm and involvement in all aspects of the school.

Cathy attended Williams College where she earned four varsity letters in tennis and squash and was named to the All-New England Team in Women’s Rugby. She continues to run and play tennis, and has run two additional marathons and competes in USTA tennis programs, where she recently competed at Over 40’s Nationals.

“To know Cathy is to be buoyed by her energy and compassion,” says classmate Peggy Driscoll '85. “She's a fierce competitor, as demonstrated by her accomplishments, and an amazing leader. Her teammates loved her, and she was a great captain. She would be an excellent addition to SPA's Athletics Hall of Fame.”

Eliot “Elie” Foster Donahue '94, was a talented and skilled athlete at St. Paul Academy and Summit School, contributing to the success of numerous SPA programs including the varsity soccer, basketball, and softball programs. On the soccer field, Elie served as a captain for both her junior and senior seasons, and helped her team to numerous successful seasons, while helping lead the team to an impressive 14-1-4 record, earning All-State honors. In her senior year she was voted All-Metro Soccer by the Star Tribune and All-State by the Pioneer Press. She also competed on the basketball team, where her tenacity and strategic play led to her service as team captain. She would conclude her time at SPA as recipient of  the Girls Athletic Bowl in recognition of her exceptional leadership and athletic contributions.

Considered one of the top soccer recruits in the country, Elie continued her career at Stanford University, where she emerged as a standout midfielder and leader. Starting 75 out of 78 career games and serving as a two-time captain, she helped the Cardinal to a top 5 national ranking every season she was on campus. Her exceptional skills, including agility, footwork, and goal-scoring, made her a pivotal player. Her coach at Stanford, Steve Swanson, lauds her as one of the best midfielders he has ever coached and said that “Elie was a selfless, disciplined, and natural leader who prioritized team success above all else. Her impact extended beyond the field, influencing teammates and coaches alike.”

After Stanford, Elie was drafted into the inaugural Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) and played for the Boston Breakers.

Elie Foster Donahue's athletic achievements and exemplary character make her a fitting addition to the SPA Athletics Hall of Fame. Her passion, perseverance, and leadership are all traits that embody what it means to be an athlete.

Keren Gudeman '94 was a talented multi-sport athlete while at St. Paul Academy and Summit School, competing on the soccer, basketball, and track and field teams and serving as captain of all three teams. In her junior season, the girls’ soccer team went 14-1-4 and Keren led the team in scoring with 21 goals. She would be named All-Metro and All-State honorable mention following her junior season. In her senior season, she helped lead the team to an impressive 16-3 record, and was named to the All-State soccer team by the Pioneer Press. In track and field her senior season, she was a member of the 4 x 800 team that competed in the state track meet.

Keren played soccer and lacrosse at Harvard University, where she helped lead the soccer team to Ivy League titles in 1995, 1996 and 1997 and the NCAA soccer tournament three times. The team advanced to the NCAA soccer tournament quarterfinals in 1997, the Crimson’s best national tournament finish in fifteen seasons. Gudeman was a two time All-Ivy league second team honoree, NCAA Regional All-America third team selection, and is top 10 for season career assists in Harvard's soccer record books. In lacrosse, she made the varsity lacrosse team as a freshman after never having played, and served as team captain her senior year, also earning All-Ivy league first team and first team regional All-American honors in 1998. Following Harvard, Keren played in the Women’s Premier Soccer League for the San Francisco Nighthawks. 

Keren eventually moved back to the Twin Cities and took a teaching and coaching position at SPA. She taught Middle School English and coached girls’ varsity soccer and varsity track and field. The girls' soccer team advanced to the state championship in 2004 and earned 2nd place in Class A. She was then hired as Carleton College’s Head Women’s Soccer Coach, coaching the Knights for six seasons. She compiled a 79-31-11 (.697) record as Carleton’s head coach and guided the Knights to the NCAA Tournament in 2008, 2009, and 2010. She was a two-time MIAC Coach of the Year (2006 and 2010) and was also named the 2008 NSCAA Central Region Coach of the Year after the Knights set a school record for victories in a season (18-6) and advanced to the elite eight of the NCAA Tournament.