Ring of Honor

Congratulations to the 2016 Ring of Honor Recipients!

Coach

Lowell Grunwall – Assistant football coach at East from 1971-75 working with offensive and defensive backs; helped lead East to 1971 state championship and the #1 ranking in 1973. Outstanding mathematics teacher and head baseball coach taking them to the state tournament in 1973 and 1975.

 

Players

Lyle Hanson – Lyle was starting offensive and defensive line on the 1966 State Championship Team setting the tone on the first of six straight State Championship Teams. He accepted full scholarship to Iowa State University. Drafted into the army, he served with distinction with the military for two years.

Dion Reed – After making a major impact on East’s football and wrestling program, he accepted a full athletic scholarship at Boston University and graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree. A two year starter and co-captain his senior year earning All-Metro, All MVC Conference and All State Football honors. Dion was also #1 ranked wrestler as a junior and became state champion his senior year.

Jeff Smith – Class of 1979, Jeff was a part of a long and successful run of powerful teams under Head Coach Roger Kittleson, being State ranked both of his seasons at East. As a two year starter at tailback and cornerback, Jeff also participated in basketball and track. Jeff continued his football at the University of Iowa before injuries ended his playing career.

Dan Lake – Starting fullback and middle linebacker on 1970 State Championship team and led the defensive team in the epic win over West High with game high tackles, earning All-City and All-State recognition. Worked in law enforcement for 32 years and later graduate of FBI National Academy.

Orington Gardner – Starting outside linebacker for Big 8 Championship Team earning All-Metro, All-Conference and Honorable Mention All-State selections. Orington also participated in basketball and track contributing to their success. Also has volunteered in many various youth sports programs mentoring young future athletes.
Travis Thorson – Two year student and All-Metro selection in addition to earning All-Conference in 1991/92 and 3rd team All-State. Helped lead East to the state playoffs while being recognized as an academic All-Stater. Upon graduation signed with Iowa State on Academic Scholarship and returned to East to coach football and baseball.