Hall of Fame
Truman Medders is the only Panhandle State intercollegiate athlete to bring a NAIA national championship individual or team to the Goodwell campus. In 1954, Medders won the NAIA 400-meter hurdle championship in a time of 53.4 seconds, which was the fourth-ranked time in the United States in 1954. Medders also earned All-American Status in the 220-yard hurdles with a 3rd place finish at the NAIA championship meet, held in Abilene, Texas.
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Medders would go on to a coaching career, as well, bringing the 1959 2A track championship to Woodward High School. Medders also served his country in the Korean War as an Army Airborne Ranger, jump instructor and, coach for the track team at Fort Benning prior to attending Panhandle State.
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Medders retired after 20 years of being an school counselor, loving every minute with today's youth providing guidance and support. He does continue to assist with PTSD counseling to veterans.
