By Dwayne Corry
September 27, 2012
Wisconsin Rapids–Wisconsin Rapids will induct three new members into their Hall of Fame as the Red Raiders celebrate homecoming on Friday night.
George Haffermann:
George was a beloved friend to all who ever picked up a ball in any sport. George will always be remembered for his slogan…”Just hit the ball.”
“George was an outstanding baseball coach and friend. He cared more about the boys he coached than anything else,” said Paula Tesch.
George graduated from Lincoln in 1949. George was a volunteer coach for the Red Raider baseball program from 1969 to 2011. George also served as an American Legion coach from 1969 through 1979. George also coached youth basketball for St. Paul’s Lutheran for 20 years. George was named assistant baseball coach of the year in 2007. In 2005 George was awarded a Wisconsin Ageless hero award for his work on the field and off.
Craig Rasmussen:
Craig earned 5 varsity letters in football and basketball in his years at Lincoln. Craig also served as a captain in both sports.
“There was a time there when you could look up the word fast in the dictionary, and there would be Craig’s picture. He was fast. Perhaps the fastest player in Lincoln history,” said Craig Bassuener.
Craig set a single season record with 9 interceptions, and had 14 for his career, while also averaging 9.5 yards per carry. Craig still runs marathon races.
Thomas Gurtler:
Thomas was a multi sport athlete at Lincoln who competed in track, basketball, football, and baseball. In 1955 as a senior Thomas was the recipient of the American Legion Award for athletic, academic and character excellence. Thomas went undefeated in the high jump his senior season at Lincoln. Thomas also averaged 21 ppg playing basketball as team captain. The efforts of his career at Lincoln resulted in an athletic grant to attend Marquette University.
“The entire Gurtler family is very thankful to LHS and the Hall of Fame Committee for bestowing this honor first on Charlie, and now on his brother Tom. Thomas certainly deserves this award and recognition.” said Victoria Gurtler.
The bar Thomas set as a student athlete is still a mark for all to achieve, anywhere.
