Regan Forsyth

Sports Editor

It’s the time of year when the ESU Athletic department announces its 2026 Hall of Fame inductees. This includes both teams and individuals who have left a huge mark on ESU sports, as well as on the school.

Some of those individuals are Elaine Bedell, ’91, softball, known for her outstanding plays at home base and the pitchers mound, and Martin Blens, ’91, Men’s Track & Field/Cross Country, known as being one of the best distance runners that has been seen in ESU history.

Also, Lance Branham, ’93, men’s outdoor track & field, who was the start of ESU’s success with the javelin. Jean Grobe, ’02, women’s track & field, who has the record of being the most successful ESU javelin thrower and holds many records that still stand today.

Larry Melwig, ’66, was a leader on and off the football field, playing defensive line, and ultimately became a high school, college, wrestling, and golf coach. Natasha Janet, ’04, women’s track & field, finished her career as a top sprinter in all of her ESU seasons.

J.D Stern, ’00, baseball and football, finished his ESU career as the football team’s kicker for 3 seasons and broke records with the baseball team. Tim Stempel, ’05, football, set a school record, as well as being a wide receiver and a member of the most brilliant offense program in 2005. Ken Wilson, ’89, men’s soccer, is a self-established elite player, leading the team to multiple PSAC and all-region honors games.

Franklin Winslow, ’83, gymnastics, was a national contender in many events during his career. Jackie Tandrises, ’09, women’s basketball, the all-time leading scorer and number 1 in ESU’s top players in history.

The two teams include: The 1979 women’s volleyball team who won the first-ever 1979 PSAC Championship, and last but not least, the 2015 field hockey team, the first ESU field hockey team to win the NCAA DII Championship and PSAC Championship in the program’s history.

Nominees are chosen by the ESU Department of Athletics committee which is made up of different groups of coaches, alumni, and a single person from a local media outlet. From there, the list goes to the athletics director for the final vote or to break a tie.

“As the committee selected this group, we knew that they truly earned their outstanding athletic success and selfless service to their teammates, athletics department, and university. I know we are all excited to officially induct this group into our Hall of Fame this November,” said Dr. Allen G Snook Jr, Director of Athletics at East Stroudsburg University.

All of these ESU legends who have left a large mark on their school are included in the 317 individuals and 21 teams that have been inducted before them. They will be inducted on Friday, Nov. 13, and will finally be a part of the Warrior family forever.