Legacy, inspiration, and community spirit shine at the 40th Annual Alpena Sports Hall of Fame Banquet

Courtesy Photo These outstanding athletes were inducted into the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame at Saturday's banquet at The APlex. Pictured, from left, are Kevin Konczak, John Keller, Eric Krebs, Marsha Beaubien Parker, and Sue Piper Geyer.
ALPENA — Cheers, memories, and heartfelt reflections filled the air Saturday night as the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame welcomed its Class of 2024 at the 40th annual banquet, held at The APlex in Alpena. The event honored five exceptional individuals whose athletic talent, leadership, and lifelong impact continue to resonate throughout the community.
This year’s inductees — Sue (Piper) Geyer, John Keller, Kevin Konczak, Eric Krebs, and Marsha (Beaubien) Parker — each brought unique stories of grit, achievement, and service to Alpena athletics, proving that greatness isn’t only measured by wins, but by dedication, character, and the lasting mark left on others.
A standing ovation for the 1992-93 State Champs
Before the individual honors began, the crowd took a moment to recognize one of Alpena’s most iconic teams — the 1992-93 State Championship Alpena High School hockey team — as Team of the Year. The team’s banner season and lasting bond remain a symbol of what teamwork, coaching, and community support can achieve.
Marsha (Beaubien) Parker: Speed, power, and perseverance

Courtesy Photo One of Alpena’s most iconic teams — the 1992-93 State Championship Alpena High School hockey team — was named Team of the Year at the annual Alpena Sports Hall of Fame awards banquet held Saturday at The APlex.
Among the evening’s standout moments was the induction of Marsha (Beaubien) Parker, a nine-time varsity letterwinner who made her mark on Alpena High School in basketball, volleyball, and most notably, softball. A 2005 First Team All-State softball selection, Parker carried her talents to the collegiate level, playing four years at Saginaw Valley State University, where she helped lead the Cardinals to back-to-back conference titles.
Known for her blend of speed and power, Parker exemplified what it meant to be a complete athlete — and a humble one.
“To be inducted alongside so many incredible athletes and community members is something I’ll never forget,” Parker said. “Alpena gave me my foundation, and I’m proud to represent the Wildcat legacy.”
The rest of the Class of 2024: Grit, passion, and impact
Sue (Piper) Geyer made waves as both an athlete and an advocate for youth sports. Her decades of involvement have left an indelible mark on Alpena’s youth athletic programs.

Courtesy Photo Matthew Amlotte and Meghan Cameron were named Boosters of the Year, honored for their tireless commitment to Alpena athletics.
John Keller, a name synonymous with local baseball excellence, was celebrated for his years of coaching, leadership, and love for the game.
Kevin Konczak, a standout in track and cross country, was known not just for breaking records, but for inspiring younger generations to chase their potential.
Eric Krebs, whose competitive spirit and dedication to wrestling brought accolades to Alpena, was remembered for his ability to lead by example on and off the mat.
Boosters of the Year: Behind-the-scenes champions
Matthew Amlotte and Meghan Cameron were named Boosters of the Year, honored for their tireless commitment to Alpena athletics. From fundraising to organizing events, their behind-the-scenes work keeps local sports alive and thriving.

Courtesy Photo Local broadcaster Al Randall is this year's Voice of the North recipient. Known for calling countless Alpena games across multiple sports, Randall brought Alpena athletics into living rooms and car radios for decades.
Voice of the North: A tribute to Al Randall
The evening also featured a heartfelt tribute to legendary local broadcaster Al Randall, this year’s Voice of the North recipient. Known for calling countless Alpena games across multiple sports, Randall brought Alpena athletics into living rooms and car radios for decades.
Sharing stories filled with humor and heart, Randall recalled some of his favorite memories — including a soccer broadcast he admittedly had to “learn on the fly.”
“We had no clue what was happening, but we made it work — because it mattered to the kids, the coaches, and the families,” Randall said with a smile.
Mike Kollien, who introduced Randall, summed it up best:
“Al’s voice was the soundtrack to Alpena sports for generations. This recognition is long overdue.”
A community celebration
As the evening drew to a close, the themes of gratitude, family, and perseverance echoed through the banquet hall. Whether it was an athlete recalling the coach who pushed them forward or a broadcaster remembering the parents who thanked him after games, one thing was clear: this night was about more than sports. It was about Alpena.
Liz Klemens, speaking at last year’s banquet, perhaps said it best — and her words still ring true: “Athletes and statistics aside, the fine qualities and characteristics of our inductees are a reflection of their hard work and success. Guiding lights for our continuing work.”
And as the Class of 2024 took their place in Alpena’s proud history, they also lit the way for the next generation — proving that excellence doesn’t end with the final whistle. It lives on in community, commitment, and the courage to give your all.
- Courtesy Photo These outstanding athletes were inducted into the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame at Saturday’s banquet at The APlex. Pictured, from left, are Kevin Konczak, John Keller, Eric Krebs, Marsha Beaubien Parker, and Sue Piper Geyer.
- Courtesy Photo One of Alpena’s most iconic teams — the 1992-93 State Championship Alpena High School hockey team — was named Team of the Year at the annual Alpena Sports Hall of Fame awards banquet held Saturday at The APlex.
- Courtesy Photo Matthew Amlotte and Meghan Cameron were named Boosters of the Year, honored for their tireless commitment to Alpena athletics.
- Courtesy Photo Local broadcaster Al Randall is this year’s Voice of the North recipient. Known for calling countless Alpena games across multiple sports, Randall brought Alpena athletics into living rooms and car radios for decades.