Tom's Induction Ceremony

One of the most versatile and accomplished athletes ever to wear the maroon and gray, Tom Schroedl excelled in football and track during a remarkable career at Grand Forks Central High School. A multi-sport letterwinner, Schroedl earned two letters in football, one in basketball, and three in track, making his mark as a fierce competitor and a dependable leader across all seasons.

Schroedl’s athletic résumé is distinguished by extraordinary accomplishments on the track. His performances helped elevate Grand Forks Central to statewide prominence throughout the mid-1970s. He captured multiple state indoor and outdoor titles, including back-to-back indoor championships in the 440-yard dash (1975, 1976) and additional titles in the 300-yard dash, 220-yard dash, and numerous relays.

In 1974, Schroedl secured a historic achievement—becoming the first athlete in North Dakota history to place in all four relays at a single state meet, finishing first in the mile relay and placing in the 440, 880, and two-mile relays. His dominance continued through 1975 and 1976, where he contributed to multiple state-championship relay teams and earned top finishes in individual sprint events. His senior year alone included three state titles (220, 440, 440-relay) and a runner-up finish in the 880-relay.

His speed translated into numerous school records, many of which stood for years. Schroedl set Central records in the 880-yard run, mile and two-mile relays, and the 440-yard dash, becoming the first Grand Forks athlete to break 50 seconds in the 440 and the first GFC runner to break two minutes in the 880. Several of his relay teams also set meet records during his tenure.

On the football field, Schroedl was equally impactful. In 1975, he was named Most Valuable Back, earned All-City honors as a running back, and received honorable mention All-Conference as a defensive end. He capped off his football career by representing Grand Forks Central in the Shrine Bowl, a testament to his versatility and toughness.

Schroedl is quick to credit his success to the exceptional coaches who shaped his athletic journey. “It was a great time to be a student-athlete at Central. Coaches and teachers like Ron Bergh, Dick Vinger, Pat Sullivan, Duane Hennesy, Vince Ames, Mary Paukert, Jim Lies, Gary Vigen, Roger Larson, and many others had such a positive impact on my life.” Their mentorship helped mold him into one of the premier sprinters in state history and a well-rounded competitor across all sports.

Following graduation, Schroedl continued building a life grounded in the values of hard work, family, and athletic excellence. He and his wife Mary, together for 33 years, are now retired and living in Arizona. Athletic talent runs deep in the family—his daughter, Sara, competed as a Division I volleyball player, continuing the tradition of competitive excellence.

Grand Forks Central proudly welcomes Tom Schroedl into the Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring an athlete whose speed, competitive spirit, and dedication left an unmistakable mark on Knight athletics.