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by Gary Stepp

Hall of Fame

PIPPA PASSES, Ky. — On Saturday, October 12, 2013, Alice Lloyd College inducted three former athletes into its Athletics Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place at the Grady Nutt Athletic Center on the College’s campus as part of the annual Appalachia Day Homecoming activities. 

This year’s inductees were: Jerry (Skip) Nantz, Jr. of Letcher Co., Betty Noble Acevedo of Letcher Co., and Jeffery Ritchie of Knott Co.

Jerry "Skip" Nantz, Jr.

Jerry “Skip” Nantz, Jr.

“SKIP” NANTZ attended Alice Lloyd from 1991-1995 where he majored in biology and minored in chemistry. He was a four-year member of the Eagles baseball team, and was known for his pitching ability. He was the team’s closer his first two seasons, and was moved to starting pitcher his last two years. He demonstrated his mastery of the mound as he earned Freshman Pitcher of the Year honors. As a senior, he was chosen all-conference, and he also earned the Coaches Award that year as well. He was such a good athlete that he was actually used as a pinch runner in the games he did not pitch, and was one of the team leaders in stolen bases. Furthermore, he was named Academic All-American both his junior and senior years. He is considered one of the top closers and pitchers to ever wear the Eagles uniform.
 
He was joined by his wife, Sherry Sizemore Nantz, his daughter, MacKenzie, and his son, Trey. Also in attendance were his parents, Jerry and Patsy Nantz.

Currently, Mr. Nantz serves his community as the owner/manager of several small businesses, including the Pound IGA and Discount Pharmacy.

His plaque was presented by his former coach, Mr. Scott Cornett, the president of Alice Lloyd College, Dr. Joe A. Stepp, and the Director of Athletics, Mr. Gary D. Stepp.

Betty Noble Acevedo

Betty Noble Acevedo

BETTY NOBLE ACEVEDO attended Alice Lloyd from 1990-1994 and returned in 2000-2001 to complete her Education degree. This lady played softball for two seasons, but left her mark as a four-year starter on the Lady Eagles basketball squad. She was known for her play-making and leadership ability.

During her career, she was elected team captain her final two seasons. She led the team in assists each year she played, and averaged over 5.5 assists per game during her career. She helped her squads win 46 games over her last two seasons.
 
She was accompanied by her husband, Luis, her son, Antonio, and daughter, Angelina. She was also joined by her parents, Eddie and Mattie Noble.

Currently, Ms. Acevedo is employed by the Letcher County Board of Education, where she serves her community as a Special Education teacher at Letcher Elementary School.

Her plaque was presented by her former coach, Mr. John Mills, the president of Alice Lloyd College, Dr. Joe Stepp, and the Director of Athletics, Mr. Gary D. Stepp.

Jeffrey Ritchie

Jeffrey Ritchie

JEFFREY RITCHIE attended ALC from 1993-1997. He became a vital three-year member of the Eagles basketball team, and was a two-year starter at point guard. He was known for his play-making ability and his tenacious defense.

His accomplishments at Alice Lloyd were numerous. He shot over 54% from the field combined over his final two seasons. He led the team in assists during each of those years, and finished among the league’s leaders in that category as well. He was voted Best Defensive Player his senior year, and was utilized by his coaches to shut down the other team’s top offensive weapon. He was widely respected by opponents and opposing coaches as a tenacious defender, and was recognized as one of the conference’s top defensive guards. During his three seasons, his teams compiled an outstanding 79-25 record, and he helped lead the Eagles to three consecutive NAIA National Tournament appearances. When he graduated, he had compiled nearly 500 assists. This total places him among the best play makers of all time.
 
He was joined by wife, Michelle, his son, Caiden, and his parents, William and Vel Ritchie.

Currently, Mr. Ritchie is employed by the Perry County Board of Education where he serves his community as a teacher at Perry County Central High School.

His plaque was presented by his former coach, Dr. Jim Stepp, former coach and president of Alice Lloyd College, Dr. Joe A. Stepp, and the Director of Athletics, Mr. Gary D. Stepp.

Alice Lloyd College congratulates these outstanding alumni and former athletes on this superior achievement and thanks them for the important work they’re doing in their communities.