Thresher Athletics Hall of Fame
A four-year starter on the offensive line, Dale Russell helped usher in a new era of Thresher football in the mid-1970s. Known for his relentless blocking and leadership, Russell was named All-KCAC three times, earned NAIA District 10 First Team honors twice, and received NAIA Honorable Mention All-American honors in 1976. He was the heart of a line that powered the 1975 team to an undefeated conference season.
Russell also competed in track and field as a shot putter and was inducted with the 1975 championship track and field team. After graduating with a degree in education, he returned to his hometown in Florida to coach and teach at Charlotte High School for more than 40 years, serving two decades as Dean of Students. A model of discipline and humility, Russell remains a shining example of Bethel's values on and off the field.