Eric's Induction Ceremony

Eric Ness, a proud graduate of the Class of 1995, exemplified excellence through academics, leadership, and athletic achievement in multiple sports. Over six years of varsity competition, Ness earned an extraordinary 12 varsity letters across three sports; Football (2), Hockey (4), and Golf (6), demonstrating both commitment to Central’s athletic programs and consistent high-level performance.

On the ice, Ness distinguished himself as a leader in a dominant program, leading Central to State Hockey Championships in 1993 and 1995, along with a State Runner-Up finish in 1994. As a captain, Ness’s individual accomplishments culminated during his Senior season, when he was named First Team All-State, selected as a Mr. Hockey Finalist, and was a member of the top scoring line in the state, the NSP line of himself, John Spicer, and Jeff Panzer.

On the turf, Ness was a cornerback and wide receiver leading Central to the playoffs his Senior year. On the fairway, the 6 year letterwinner was team captain his Junior and Senior year and earned All-Conference honors his Sophomore, Junior, and Senior seasons.

Beyond championships and awards, Ness’s high school experience was deeply rooted in GFC Pride and Tradition, a culture that demanded excellence both athletically and academically. That standard fueled his success not only in competition but also in the classroom, where he earned Honor Roll recognition. Ness shared his thoughts of Central stating, “There is immense pride in everything the school does and stands for and the tradition of the school speaks for itself.”

Among his most cherished memories is the rare and meaningful opportunity to win two state hockey championships alongside close friends, coached by his father as head coach, a moment that perfectly embodied the values of family, teamwork, and tradition.

Following graduation, Ness played for Sioux City and Rochester in the USHL and then played at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Ness has built a successful professional career and now resides in Moorhead, Minnesota, where he works as a Senior Loss Control Specialist with Marsh McLennan. He shares his life with his wife Nicole (Class of ‘97 graduate), their son Ian (21), and daughter Lauren (16), continuing to model the values of dedication, integrity, and balance that defined his high school years. His induction into the GFC Athletic Hall of Fame is shared with his former coach and father, Chuck Ness, a current member of the Hall of Fame.