The Upper Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame has announced its newest class of inductees for 2025, with winter sports taking center stage. Among the distinguished honorees is Olympic snowboard champion Nick Baumgartner, who becomes the fourth Winter Olympic participant to join the prestigious hall of fame. Baumgartner, a multi-talented athlete, achieved success in various sports during his high school years at West Iron County High School, where he excelled in football, wrestling, and hurdles. His remarkable journey culminated in a gold medal win at the Winter Olympics in China, where he made history as the oldest gold medalist in snowboard cross.
Joining Baumgartner in the 2025 class of inductees are several other outstanding individuals who have left a lasting impact on the world of sports. Ski pioneer Jeannie Thoren, known for her trailblazing efforts in women’s skiing and advocacy for gender-specific equipment, is recognized for her significant contributions to the sport. Thoren’s dedication to promoting women’s skiing led her to open a ski shop in Vail, Colorado, catering specifically to female skiers, a groundbreaking initiative in the industry.
Softball pitcher Lesley (Noel) Delvaux, a dominant force on the field at various levels, including Little League, high school, and college, is honored for her exceptional talent and achievements in the sport. Delvaux’s success as a player and coach at Escanaba Bay College further solidifies her legacy as a standout athlete in the Upper Peninsula.
Basketball coach/player Jamie Angeli, a two-time All-U.P. first-team basketball player at West Iron County High School, has made a significant impact on the sport through his coaching career. Angeli’s coaching journey has taken him around the world, from high schools in Michigan to college teams in Kuwait and Qatar, where he achieved remarkable success and earned accolades for his coaching prowess.
Rachel (Folcik) McClure, a standout basketball player at Carney-Nadeau High School and Ferris State University, is recognized for her impressive career on the court and her contributions to the sport as a coach. McClure’s achievements as a player and coach highlight her dedication to basketball and her ability to inspire others through her passion for the game.
The 2025 class of inductees also includes esteemed individuals such as veteran basketball official Dave St. Onge, former Ishpeming football coach Jeff Olson, the late John Prokos of Escanaba, Denise Porath of Escanaba, and Barb Sickler of Calumet. Each inductee brings a unique set of skills and accomplishments to the Upper Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame, further enriching the legacy of sports excellence in the region.
The induction ceremony, set to take place at Island Resort & Casino in Harris, will celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals and honor their contributions to the world of sports. From Olympic champions to pioneering coaches and athletes, the 2025 class of inductees represents the best of the Upper Peninsula’s sporting heritage and serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and excellence in sports.
