Three Former Chargers Honored at Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony

Noah Ylagan recieving his Hall of Fame Award at the Men’s Basketball game.

Briar Cliff University honored three former athletes during its Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony on January 17. Recognizing their lasting impact on Charger athletics and the university community.

The ceremony took place at halftime of the men’s basketball game against Mount Marty University, allowing students, alumni, and fans to celebrate the 2026 Hall of Fame class in a shared campus setting. This year’s inductees include football player Noah Ylagan, women’s volleyball standout Kate Boettcher, and the late men’s basketball player Ricardo Yearwood.

Established in 1991, following the 25th anniversary of co-ed intercollegiate athletics at Briar Cliff, the Athletic Hall of Fame serves as a way to recognize individuals and teams who have left a meaningful mark on the university’s athletic programs. The Hall of Fame includes former athletes, coaches, athletic personnel, teams, and honorary inductees, preserving the history of Charger athletics while celebrating excellence and leadership.

Asi Tupua, coordinator of the event, said, “Hall of Fame selection process is both detailed and collaborative.” Former Chargers who have graduated from the institution may be nominated, after which a committee reviews each nominee’s athletic career, statistics, and overall impact on Briar Cliff athletics. The committee narrows the list to 15 finalists, which is then sent to current Hall of Fame members for a vote. The final selections are determined after reviewing the voting results.

Tupua emphasized that the Hall of Fame represents more than athletic success. “The hall of fame is a way to honor former players who have made great contributions, not only for the athletic programs that they represented but for the university itself,” he said. “It’s a great way to recognize alumni and have their legacy continue on.”

Each inductee in the 2026 class represents a different era and sport within Briar Cliff athletics. Ylagan is remembered as one of the most impactful players in the football program’s history. Boettcher made her mark as a defensive leader for the women’s volleyball team, while Yearwood remains one of the most efficient players to wear a Charger uniform for men’s basketball. Yearwood was represented at the ceremony by Ron Schultz.

Boettcher reflected on the recognition and the lessons she carried beyond athletics. “It’s just humbling to be nominated and thought of for this award,” she said. She also credited her coaching staff for shaping her values. “Our coach here taught us about accountability and having a good work ethic, whether it’s volleyball or life in general,” Boettcher said, adding that those lessons have stayed with her in her career and family life.

The ceremony highlighted the importance of honoring Briar Cliff’s athletic history while connecting past achievements with the present campus community. As the Hall of Fame continues to grow, it remains a lasting tribute to the individuals who helped shape Charger athletics and the university as a whole.