NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Bethel College Athletics is proud to announce the Hall of Fame Class of 2025, honoring three individuals who have left lasting legacies on Thresher athletics: Juan Aguirre '98, Virgil Penner '60, and Dale Russell '76. These distinguished alumni will be officially inducted during Fall Festival Weekend in October.
"I am extremely excited and pleased to announce the next inductees to our Hall of Fame," said Athletic Director Tim Swartzendruber. "Each of these former student-athletes left their mark on Bethel College Athletics and each have been extremely successful since graduating from Bethel College. This is truly an honor for them and I will be anxious to see each of them in October when we officially induct them into our Hall of Fame."
Juan Aguirre '98 – Soccer
Juan Aguirre helped redefine Bethel men's soccer during his four-year career from 1995 to 1998. As a forward, he racked up 30 goals and 31 assists, setting the program's single-season (at the time) scoring record in 1998 with 18 goals, including three hat tricks. Aguirre was instrumental in the 1996 team's KCAC Postseason Championship run, and his leadership and attacking flair made him a constant threat on the field.
After graduating with a degree in Spanish, Aguirre began a career in education and coaching that has spanned more than two decades. He's coached high school soccer in Kansas and Nebraska, and currently serves as Spanish instructor and head boys soccer coach at Millard West High School in Omaha. A former professional player for clubs in Argentina and the Wichita Wings indoor team, Aguirre continues to share his passion for the sport with the next generation.
Virgil Penner '60 – Contributor
The embodiment of a lifelong Thresher, Virgil Penner's influence on Bethel College athletics spans over six decades. As a student-athlete in the late 1950s, Penner earned All-KCAC football honors three times and was known for his explosive play on the line. After college, he served Bethel in numerous capacities including head coach, athletic director, and alumni director. He also played a key role in launching beloved campus traditions such as Taste of Newton.
Beyond his professional service, Penner has been one of the most generous supporters of Bethel athletics. He has provided significant financial contributions for facility upgrades including the softball press box and the Thresher Stadium viewing suite and locker rooms. Known for hosting hundreds of team meals and mentoring countless student-athletes, Penner's presence continues to be felt at nearly every home game. His legacy is one of servant leadership, generosity, and unwavering school spirit.
Dale Russell '76 – Football
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.
Bethel College will celebrate the official induction of these three honorees during the 2025 Fall Festival on Friday, October 3rd. Their stories of athletic excellence, leadership, and lifelong service reflect the best of what it means to be a Thresher.
