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Six Elected to Simley Hall of Fame Class of 2023
Inductees will be recognized Friday, September 1, during halftime of the Simley football game that starts at 7 p.m.
The Simley High School Hall of Fame exists to honor individuals who have distinguished themselves in the areas of academic achievement, athletic achievement, and/or humanitarian achievement. The Hall of Fame also serves as a way to preserve history, build a sense of community, and connect the past with the present.
The newest additions to the Simley Hall of Fame – a six-member group that makes up the Simley High School Hall of Fame Class of 2023 - will be recognized at halftime of the Simley football game Friday, September 1, when the defending state champion Spartans host Winona High School at 7 p.m.
The six-member Simley Hall of Fame class of 2023 includes Dr. Kevin Weddle (1975), Zach Lerner (1991), Wade Short (1991), Michelle Lieder (1999), Angie McLain Penttila (1999) and longtime district employee Sandy Hoff.
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Simley Hall of Fame 2023 Inductees: Top row (L to R): Dr. Kevin Weddle, Angie McLain Penttila, Michelle Lieder. Bottom row (L to R): Wade Short, Sandy Hoff, Zach Lerner.
Learn more about the 2023 Simley Hall of Fame inductees and be sure to click on the links below to read even more about the outstanding accomplishments of these Simley graduates:
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Dr. Kevin Weddle (1975)
From the hallowed halls of Simley High School to the echelons of academic and military distinction, Dr. Kevin Weddle, Simley High School Class of 1975, stands as a beacon of perseverance, excellence, and multifaceted achievement.
At Simley, he was as a three-sport athlete, an actor, and a scholar. His dedication to service is evident through his 28 years of active duty, including pivotal roles in Operation Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. An alumnus of prestigious institutions like West Point and Princeton University, Dr. Weddle's academic and literary pursuits have garnered him accolades, notably the Gilder Lehrman Prize for Military History.
As he enters the Simley Hall of Fame, we celebrate a lifetime of remarkable accomplishments and an enduring commitment to service, education, and the arts.
Zach Lerner (1991)
From the track to the hardwood and gridiron of Simley High School, Zach Lerner's name became synonymous with excellence. A 1991 Simley graduate, Lerner dazzled in football, basketball, and track, not just collecting accolades but setting records that stand to this day. But it wasn't just in high school where Lerner shone.
His athletic prowess continued at the NCAA Division II level, and his legacy grew even grander as he shaped future champions from the sideline as a football coach for over 17 years. His achievements make his induction into Simley's Hall of Fame an awaited celebration of a legend's journey. It is rare to find a Simley High School graduate with this unique combination of success as a high school and collegiate athlete, and coach.
Dive in, and relive the captivating journey of Simley’s very own, Zach Lerner.
Wade Short (1991)
Wade Short's journey from the spotlight of national television shows like "Dance Fever" and "Star Search" in the early '80s to the formidable arenas of high school athletics is a testament to his prodigious talents and indomitable spirit. A 1991 graduate of Simley High School, Wade etched his legacy with multiple state championships in wrestling, while showcasing exemplary prowess in football and tennis. His post-school accolades include national dance titles, renowned ballet intensives, and a profound impact as an educator and entrepreneur in Inver Grove Heights. Wade's multifaceted success in arts and athletics rightly earns him a revered spot in the Simley Hall of Fame.
Michelle Lieder (1999)
Michelle Lieder’s journey at Simley High was nothing short of exemplary. The 1999 graduate was a standout with the swimming and diving program, where she set numerous school records and consistently racked up accolades that rank her as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Simley history.
At the University of Minnesota, she made waves, clinching a spot in the top 25 all-time records for the 100 fly and earning esteemed distinctions such as receiving the Model Citizen Volunteer Award. Her dedication extended to academics as well, where she secured a Bachelor's in Sports Management and a subsequent Master's in Kinesiology.
After college, Michelle seamlessly transitioned to mentoring. As a coach at Woodbury High School, she has been recognized with multiple Coach of the Year honors, shaping the next generation of aquatic athletes.
In addition to her athletic and coaching accolades, Michelle's passion for education shines brightly. With 15 years under her belt as an Elementary Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education Specialist in the South Washington County School District, she continues to mentor and educate.
Angela McLain Penttila (1999)
Angela McLain graduated from Simley High School in 1999 as a three-sport standout and accomplished student. She participated in diving, gymnastics, and softball. Now Angela Penttila, her accomplishments in gymnastics are legendary, and include a litany of records that still stand today.
She earned all-state honors an astonishing five times and was a state qualifier across all gymnastic events for five consecutive years. Her success on the beam concluded with a 5th-place state finish in 1999. McLain Penttila was a five-time All-Section selection and a four-time All-Conference pick. She holds school records in bars and beam, as well as top ten finishes in vault, floor, and all-around.
Beyond gymnastics, McLain Penttila's athletic versatility was evident with honorable mention recognition in diving and as a three-year starter in softball. Off the field, her academic excellence earned her academic letters throughout high school and a coveted spot in the National Honor Society. Her dedication to Simley continued post-graduation, coaching within the Simley gymnastics program for eight years.
Learn more about Angie McLain Penttila
Sandy Hoff (1971-2020)
If Simley High School ever had a guardian angel, it was Sandy Hoff. For nearly five decades, from 1971-2020, her unwavering presence was more than just a touchstone—it was an institution in itself.
The beloved "laundry lady" might sound like a humble moniker, but make no mistake: Sandy was the unsung heroine behind Simley's gleaming athletic and academic achievements. Every stitch she mended, every windscreen she repaired, and every uniform she rejuvenated reflected her dedication to perfection, saving the district both money and reputation.
Imagine the grandeur of Simley’s graduation ceremonies. Now, envision the hands behind those impeccably steamed drapes that hung from the rafters. That was Sandy, ensuring that every graduating class basked in the glow of a flawless ceremony.
But her love for the community wasn't limited to fabrics and drapes. Sandy's heart pulsed with a desire for inclusivity. In the 1980s, she employed students with physical and mental disabilities in the laundry room, giving them purpose and self-worth.
Sandy's commitment to her craft was unparalleled. She served as a middle school para-professional, even returning to college to further certify her skills.
Learn more about Sandy Hoff and the impact she made at Simley High School
The public is encouraged to attend this much-anticipated Hall of Fame event honoring distinguished individuals who have soared in academics, sports, and humanitarian pursuits. From record-setting athletes to devoted educators, this diverse class represents the spirit of Simley in its entirety.
Help celebrate these inductees on Friday, September 1, during halftime of the Simley vs. Winona High School football game at 7 p.m.
It's not just an evening of recognition but a reunion of Spartans past and present, connecting achievements across generations.
Follow the Simley HOF on Instagram via @HOFSimley.
Related Simley Hall of Fame Articles
Simley Hall of Fame Class of 2022
Simley Hall of Fame Class of 2021
'There Is Goodness In Every Day': Simley High Sports Legend Brian Howard Reflects On Life With MS
2022 Simley Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Simley Hall of Fame Information and Nomination Form
View the interactive Simley Hall of Fame and Class Yearbooks