ASAA names Hanson to Alaska High School Hall of Fame

Randy Hanson

The Alaska School Activities Association (ASAA) announces the Class of 2019 of the Alaska High School Hall of Fame. Named to the Class of 2019 is Bethel’s Randy Hanson.

Randy Hanson is a 2010 graduate of Bethel Regional High School. Hanson is a four time State Wrestling Finalist and a three time State Champion (2009 Champion – 125 lbs., 2008 – Champion – 119 lbs., 2007 – 103 lbs., 2006 2nd Place – 103 lbs.). Randy is arguably the greatest wrestler coming out of the storied Bethel Regional High School program. Because of his positive attitude, consistency and athletic accomplishments, he was a role model for other students in the Bethel area. Randy also participated at a high level in cross country and basketball. As a cross country runner, he qualified and participated in three state championships.

Bethel Wrestling Coach, Darren Lieb, states “He inspired others to work harder both on and off the mat.”

Additionally, Randy was an outstanding student. Despite missing a considerable amount of time while participating, he graduated with over a 4.0 GPA and was one of his graduating class’s valedictorian. Randy was only able to do this because of his extremely high level of personal expectations and drive.

After graduating from Bethel Regional High School, Randy went on to wrestle for the University of Minnesota, where he was recognized as All-Academic Big-Ten. He graduated with honors with a degree in Kinesiology in December 2014. He then went on to earn his teaching certification and is now teaching and coaching at South Anchorage High School.

Other Athlete Inductees are:

Justin Dorn: 2001 graduate of Juneau Douglas High School; Philip Engebretsen: 1989 graduate of Homer High School; Alev Kelter – 2009 graduate of Chugiak High School; Stacia Rustad – 1992 graduate of Kenai Central High School; Cody Tanner – 1978 graduate of Chugiak High School; Austin Vanderford – 2008 graduate of Ninilchik High School

Coach Category Inductees

Mike Ashley: A legendary hockey coach for 19 seasons at Dimond, West, Service and South Anchorage High Schools

Vic Belleque: A longtime and successful volleyball and basketball coach for Dillingham High School

Lifetime Achievement Inductee: Steve Nerland

The Hall of Fame was established to identify and honor, in a permanent manner, individuals who exhibited high ethical standards and integrity while achieving excellence in high school athletics and activities, as well as others who have distinguished themselves by virtue of exemplary contributions to the advancement of interscholastic athletics and activities in the State of Alaska.

Categories include student athletes, students who participated in fine art and academic activities, coaches, advisors/directors, administrators, officials/adjudicators and major contributors.

Hanson and the other inductees will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony beginning at 4:00 p.m. on May 5th at the Lakefront Hotel. The public is invited to attend the ceremony and following reception.