Thresher Athletics Hall of Fame
Few run into the issue of having to narrow down their life's greatest accomplishments quite like Mel Goering. A three-sport athlete with the Threshers from 1957-1961, Goering was the quarterback and point guard for the football and basketball teams. While he earned the respect of his teammates in these sports, he was also able to capture the respect of his opponents at the high jump mats. The 5'7" jumper was able to earn the KCAC individual championship in high jump four-straight years, setting the school record at 6' 3.5". The record has since been broken, but Goering successfully left his mark on the program. The class president and Rhodes Scholar finalist continued to make a strong impact on Bethel, and the athletic department after his time as a student concluded. He held numerous positions at Bethel, eventually working his way up to COO, and is credited for the creation of the athletic training program.
