Concordia University Wisconsin has announced the Concordia Wisconsin Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024: Andrew Ashenden, Keith Collins, Jacob Pope, and Nina Puch.
The class of 2024 will be honored on the morning of October 19 and during halftime of the homecoming football game.
“I am very excited to announce the induction of these fine folks into the CUW Athletics Hall of Fame,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Rob Barnhill. “Each of them have made a lasting impact on their teams and have been great examples of what it means to be a Concordian.”
Andrew Ashenden | Cross Country/Track & Field, 2008-2010
Andrew Ashenden was among the finest distance runners in Concordia University Wisconsin’s history. From 2008 to 2010, Andrew excelled in cross country, securing individual conference titles in 2009 and 2010 and earning NAC Runner of the Year honors in both seasons. His remarkable 2010 season included All-Region recognition and a National Qualifier spot, with a standout time of 24:41, making him the second-fastest runner in CUW history.
In track and field, Andrew’s prowess continued. During the 2010 and 2011 seasons, he set the school record in the 3000-meter and contributed to the Distance Medley relay record. His exceptional performances earned him NAC Track Athlete of the Meet honors in both years and the prestigious CUW Male Athlete of the Year award.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Andrew distinguished himself as a dedicated student and leader, receiving the E.R. Brann Citizenship Award for his exemplary leadership, citizenship, and Christian values. Andrew remains a beacon of inspiration and a cherished member of the CUW community, embodying the spirit of what it means to be a Falcon.
Keith Collins | Football Coach, 1984-2022
Keith Collins began his illustrious career in 1984, embodying unparalleled dedication to the Concordia University Wisconsin football program and the CUW community. Over his 38-year tenure, Coach Collins made extraordinary contributions, coaching in more than 350 games and mentoring 18 CUW Hall of Famers, 32 All-Americans, and over 100 all-conference first-team honorees. His guidance also extended to over 130 all-conference second-team players, eight conference title-winning teams, and six teams that advanced to the national playoffs.
Coach Collins’s commitment went far beyond the sidelines. He took on numerous roles, from painting the football fields before home games and setting up coaching headsets to installing goalposts, carpeting the press box, and revitalizing the original weight room, showcasing his deep-seated devotion to the program’s success.
His tenure was marked by memorable milestones, including when the Helsinki football team played against CUW in Mequon, marking the first time a European football team competed in America. Additionally, Coach Collins participated in two memorable trips to Germany, providing invaluable experiences for CUW student-athletes.
Even in retirement, Coach Collins continued to serve CUW, contributing to the university’s campus safety team and taking on the role of Director of Football Alumni Relations. His lasting impact and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on CUW’s football legacy, providing a perfect example of what it means to be a Falcon.
Jacob Pope | Football, 2010-2013
Jacob Pope concluded his soccer career as one of the most decorated athletes in Concordia University Wisconsin’s history. From 2010 to 2013, Jacob’s outstanding play earned him First Team All-Conference and All-State honors each year, with additional recognition as the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2013. He also made the All-Central Region Team in the 2010 and 2013 seasons. Notably, his defensive role did not limit his offensive impact, as he scored 15 goals and tallied 12 assists throughout his career.
Jacob’s resilience and dedication were highlighted by his decision to play an entire season with a broken ankle, postponing treatment until after the season’s end. His leadership and commitment set a high bar for excellence, significantly contributing to the team’s success and leaving a lasting legacy for future players.
Nina Puch | Golf, 2013-2016
Nina Puch stands out as one of the most exceptional athletes in Concordia University Wisconsin’s history. From 2013 to 2016, she made a profound impact on the golf program, beginning with a remarkable freshman year in which she won five tournaments, earned All-Conference honors with a second-place finish at the NACC Championships, and played a key role in securing the conference title for her team. Nina also competed at Nationals, finishing 62nd.
Her dominance continued throughout her career, with standout seasons in 2014 and 2015. During these years, she won five tournaments each season, was named NACC Individual Champion and Player of the Year and led her team to NACC Titles. Nina’s career includes an impressive 18 tournament victories in 34 events and a .529 winning percentage. She also set the 18-hole round record with a 71 and the 36-hole round record with a 151 in 2015. Her accolades include four-time All-Conference selections, two-time Conference Player of the Year awards, and 26 top-five finishes.
In addition to her golf achievements, Nina was a versatile athlete in hockey, competing in 104 games, and played a crucial role in the lacrosse team’s championship win in the spring of 2016.
Nina Puch’s extraordinary athletic achievements and leadership make her a cherished member of the CUW Hall of Fame and a remarkable example of Falcon excellence.
About the Hall of Fame
After graduating from the St. Louis Seminary and serving in parish ministry, Coach William Ackmann began his tenure at Concordia in 1928. He was both a visionary and a leader, coaching basketball and serving as athletic director. Dean Ackmann was featured on the cover of LIFE magazine in the 1950s for his innovative use of the trampoline in Physical fitness. Another of his major accomplishments was the construction of the state-of-the-art Ackmann Pool, which was added to the Barth Gymnasium on the original Concordia campus.
The William C. Ackmann Memorial Athletic Hall of Fame was founded in 1995 to honor the most celebrated athletes of Concordia University Wisconsin.
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.
Being a Concordia Falcon isn’t just about out-scoring competitors in the athletic arena. It’s about developing as an individual, both in and out of the game. Dedicated coaches and staff put in the time to see that you walk away from your Concordia experience as a better athlete, a stronger Christian, and a champion of character.