The Bison Athletics
Hall of Fame Class of 2026
2003 Football Team
The 2003 Hot Springs Bison football team combined record-setting performance, championship-level teamwork, and tremendous community pride to produce one of the most memorable seasons in school history — achievements that make the team deserving of induction into the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
A Historic Season
Under the leadership of Head Coach Trent Pikula and his coaching staff, the Bison completed the 2003 season with an outstanding 10–2 record.
The team’s accomplishments included:
A school-record 10 victories
The first appearance by Hot Springs in a state football championship game
A state runner-up finish
The season established a new standard for Bison football and marked an important turning point in the program’s history.
Black Hills Conference Champions
The 2003 Bison captured the Black Hills Conference championship.
That milestone was built through talent, preparation, discipline, and a shared commitment to the team. Players consistently performed under pressure and demonstrated the toughness necessary to compete against the region’s strongest programs.
The conference championship represented more than a successful regular season. It showed that Hot Springs had developed into a legitimate championship contender with consistency day in and day out.
A Run to the State Championship Game
The Bison carried their success into the postseason and became the first Hot Springs football team to qualify for a state championship game.
Their state runner-up finish completed a landmark season and gave the Hot Springs community an opportunity to rally behind a team competing on the state’s biggest stage.
The championship run remains one of the defining accomplishments in the history of Bison football.
Record-Setting Team Performance
The 2003 Bison established numerous school records through their production on offense and their dominance on defense.
Team records included:
368 points scored in a season
Five shutouts
10 victories in a season
Most total yards in a season
The offense consistently created scoring opportunities, while the defense repeatedly prevented opponents from gaining momentum. That balance made the Bison one of the most complete teams in school history.
Offensive Leadership
Quarterback Charlie Baker directed the Bison offense during its record-setting season. His leadership helped the team establish new standards for scoring and total offensive production.
During his career, Baker set school records for:
30 career touchdown passes
18 touchdown passes in a season
Five touchdown passes in a game
His command of the offense complemented a powerful rushing attack and helped make the Bison difficult for opposing defenses to contain.
“The Joe Show”
Running back Joe Beehler, known to teammates and fans as “The Joe Show,” produced one of the most accomplished individual seasons in Bison football history.
His records included:
1,955 rushing yards in a season
3,447 career rushing yards
2,501 all-purpose yards in a season
5,777 career all-purpose yards
182 points in a season
30 touchdowns in a season
53 career touchdowns
520 return yards in a season
99-yard kickoff return
85-yard punt return
Beehler’s combination of rushing, scoring, and special-teams production made him one of the most dynamic players in the state and a central part of the team’s championship run.
Outstanding Individual Contributions
The team’s success was built through contributions across the roster. Several players established individual records during the season or over the course of their high school careers.
Notable achievements included:
Kyle Bachand: 216 tackles in a season
Cameron Weiss: 3,590 career rushing yards
Riley Northrup: 10 career interceptions
Josh Redden: 518 receiving yards in a season and seven receiving touchdowns
Charlie Baker: Multiple passing records
Joe Beehler: Multiple rushing, scoring, all-purpose and return records
These accomplishments reflected the depth and versatility of a team capable of succeeding in every phase of the game.
Coaching and Team Leadership
The Bison were guided by Head Coach Trent Pikula, along with assistant coaches Scott Beehler, Adam Mines, Levi Klippenstein, James “Jim” Hayes, Scott Harkless, and Barry Scott.
The coaching staff helped develop a program centered on preparation, accountability, sportsmanship, and trust. Their leadership allowed players from multiple grade levels to come together around a common purpose and perform at a championship level.
The team was also supported by manager Mike McGowan, whose contributions were part of the program’s collective success.
A Community United
The impact of the 2003 season extended beyond the football field. The team created excitement throughout Hot Springs and brought together students, families, alumni, and community members.
Fans of all ages followed the Bison’s championship run and shared in the pride generated by the team’s accomplishments. The players represented Hot Springs with determination, character, and sportsmanship, providing an example for future generations of Bison athletes.
A Lasting Football Legacy
The 2003 Hot Springs Bison football team changed the expectations surrounding the program.
By winning the Black Hills Conference championship, recording 10 victories, setting numerous team and individual records, and advancing to the state championship game, the team established a legacy that remains an important part of Hot Springs athletic history.
Their accomplishments were the result of collective effort — players, coaches, managers, families, fans, and an entire community united behind Bison football. The 2003 team continues to represent the excellence, perseverance, and pride that define Hot Springs athletics.
Janet Wass
Janet Wass’s years at Hot Springs High School were defined by athletic versatility, fierce competitiveness, school spirit, and an uplifting presence that remained with her family, friends, and community throughout her life — qualities that make her a deserving inductee into the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
A Versatile Bison Athlete
A 1976 graduate of Hot Springs High School, Janet participated in a wide range of athletic and school activities throughout her four years.
Her involvement included:
Track and field
Gymnastics
Basketball
Volleyball
Cheerleading
Pep Club
Royal Blues and other school-spirit activities
Janet’s willingness to compete across multiple sports reflected her natural athletic ability, energy, and deep pride in representing Hot Springs.
Early Success in Track and Field
Janet made an immediate impact during her freshman year when she qualified for state competition as a member of the 880-yard relay team.
She returned to state competition in the 880 event during her sophomore season, establishing herself as a dependable member of the Bison track program.
Janet continued competing in track and field throughout high school, earning medals and ribbons while contributing in both individual events and relays.
Record-Setting Long Jumper
Janet’s signature track and field accomplishment came during her senior season when she established a Hot Springs High School record in the long jump.
The record remained an important source of pride for Janet for many years and represented the determination, athleticism, and competitive spirit she brought to every event.
Her long jump achievement became one of the defining accomplishments of her high school career and an enduring part of her family’s memories of her time as a Bison athlete.
Gymnastics Excellence
Janet also became an accomplished member of the Hot Springs gymnastics program.
As a sophomore, she placed ninth in the balance beam competition. She continued competing in gymnastics during her junior and senior seasons, helping the team achieve a second-place finish during her final year.
Gymnastics required a combination of strength, balance, discipline, and confidence — qualities Janet demonstrated throughout her athletic career.
Basketball and Volleyball
Janet’s athletic versatility extended to the basketball and volleyball courts.
She played junior varsity volleyball during her freshman and sophomore years and later competed in basketball as a senior. Her nomination materials remember her as a successful competitor who earned numerous medals and honors during her high school career.
Whether participating in an individual event or contributing to a team, Janet competed with intensity and brought enthusiasm to those around her.
School Spirit and Leadership
Janet was more than a talented athlete. She was an energetic and visible supporter of Hot Springs High School.
Throughout her high school years, she participated in cheerleading, Pep Club, the Girls Letter Club, and Royal Blues activities. These roles allowed her to represent the school not only as a competitor, but also as an enthusiastic spokesperson and ambassador for Bison athletics.
Friends remembered Janet as someone who could lift others with her smile, listen when someone needed support, and bring energy to every activity in which she participated.
Hot Springs’ Best Female Athlete
At the conclusion of her senior year, Janet was voted Best Female Athlete of 1976.
The recognition reflected the breadth of her contributions across track and field, gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, and school activities. It also honored the competitive drive and dedication she displayed throughout her four years at Hot Springs High School.
A Lifelong Supporter of Bison Athletics
Janet’s connection to athletics continued long after graduation.
She passed her love of competition on to her children and became one of their most dedicated supporters. Her family remembered that there was rarely a football game, wrestling meet, or other athletic event she would miss.
She was often the loudest supporter in the stands and took great pride in watching the next generation compete. Her enthusiasm reflected the same passion she had shown as a student-athlete at Hot Springs.
A Lasting Connection to Hot Springs
Hot Springs remained deeply important to Janet throughout her life. She regularly shared stories of her school years, her athletic experiences, and the places that shaped her childhood.
She returned with her children to show them the community where she grew up, including the athletic facilities and the routes she traveled as a student. Through those stories and visits, she passed along her appreciation for Hot Springs and the experiences that helped shape her.
A Legacy of Athleticism and Joy
Janet Wass represented far more than athletic accomplishment. She was remembered as a natural athlete, fierce competitor, loyal friend, devoted mother, enthusiastic supporter, and positive representative of her hometown.
Her record-setting performances and multi-sport career earned her recognition during her time at Hot Springs High School, but her lasting legacy is also found in the encouragement she gave others, the pride she carried for Hot Springs, and the joy she brought to her family and friends.
Honoring Janet in the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes both an outstanding athlete and a remarkable person whose competitive spirit, warmth, and dedication continue to be remembered.
Amanda Sides
Amanda Sides distinguished herself as an exceptional multi-sport athlete, state champion, record-setting performer, and accomplished student — achievements that make her a deserving inductee into the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
A Versatile Bison Athlete
A 2001 graduate of Hot Springs High School, Amanda competed in track and field, volleyball, and basketball.
Her combination of athletic ability, competitiveness, and consistency allowed her to excel in multiple disciplines. Whether competing individually in track and field or contributing to a team sport, Amanda consistently performed at a championship level.
Record-Setting Track and Field Career
Amanda’s impact on the Hot Springs track and field program began before she entered high school. As an eighth grader, she qualified for the state track meet and established a school record in the high jump.
Three years later, she surpassed her own high jump record, demonstrating the continued development and determination that defined her athletic career.
Amanda regularly competed in:
High jump
Long jump
Triple jump
Individual running events
Relay events
She frequently won all three jumping events at regular-season meets and qualified for the state meet in multiple events during several seasons.
Conference Dominance
Amanda was especially successful at the Black Hills Conference meet, where she won the high jump, long jump, and triple jump during three consecutive seasons.
Sweeping three field events at the conference level required an exceptional combination of power, technique, focus, and versatility. Her sustained success made her one of the most accomplished field-event athletes of her era.
State Championship Volleyball
Amanda was also a key member of the Lady Bison volleyball program during one of the most successful periods in school history.
She contributed to Hot Springs’ state championship teams and earned recognition for her individual performance, including:
All-Conference honors
All-State honors
Selection to an All-Star team following graduation
Her contributions helped establish the Lady Bison as one of South Dakota’s premier volleyball programs.
Basketball Success
Amanda’s athletic accomplishments extended to the basketball court, where she was one of the Lady Bison’s leading scorers.
She earned All-Conference recognition and ranked among the team’s top two scorers, further demonstrating her ability to compete successfully across multiple sports.
Excellence in the Classroom
Amanda’s accomplishments were not limited to athletics. She maintained a 4.0 grade-point average while balancing the demands of three varsity sports and other school activities.
Her academic performance reflected the same discipline, preparation, and commitment she displayed in competition.
A Legacy of Athletic and Academic Excellence
From setting a high jump record as an eighth grader to winning conference titles, competing at state meets, contributing to championship volleyball teams, and excelling in basketball, Amanda Sides established an extraordinary record of achievement at Hot Springs High School.
Her versatility, competitive drive, academic excellence, and commitment to the Bison represent the qualities celebrated by the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
Mark Moller
Mark Moller’s golf career was defined by steady improvement, championship-level performance, and an enduring connection to Hot Springs — qualities that make him a deserving inductee into the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
High School Golf Career
A 2002 graduate of Hot Springs High School, Mark became an integral part of the resurgence of the Bison golf program beginning with his first full varsity season in 1998.
His scoring average improved throughout his career:
1998: 78.0
1999: 76.6
2000: 76.6
2001: 71.6
That progression reflected Mark’s commitment to improving his game and developing into one of South Dakota’s leading high school golfers.
Building a Championship Program
Mark helped continue one of the most successful periods in Hot Springs golf history. He was a member of the final four teams in the program’s run of five consecutive Black Hills Conference championships from 1997 through 2001.
His consistency and competitive ability made him an important contributor to a program that established itself as one of the region’s best.
Individual Championships and Honors
In addition to his contributions to the team, Mark compiled an outstanding record of individual achievement.
His accomplishments included:
1999 Region 4A Champion, shooting a 74 and winning a playoff in Winner
2000 Black Hills Conference runner-up, shooting a 73
Seventh place at the 2000 Region 3A Tournament
2001 Black Hills Conference Champion, shooting a 74
Tied for first at the 2001 Region 2A Tournament, shooting a 71
These performances demonstrated Mark’s ability to compete successfully under pressure and consistently perform at the highest level.
State Championship Season
Mark concluded his high school career with a remarkable senior season in 2001.
After winning the Black Hills Conference championship and tying for first at the regional tournament, he captured the South Dakota State Golf Championship in Hartford with rounds of 75 and 74.
Following his success in high school and statewide competition, Mark was also named the 2001 South Dakota Golf Association Player of the Year.
Collegiate and Competitive Golf
After graduating from Hot Springs High School, Mark continued his golf career at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he competed successfully at the collegiate level.
He later pursued the game beyond college, competing in professional mini-tour events throughout the Southwest for three years.
Family and Lasting Connections
Mark credits much of his success to the support of his parents, Gary and Gladys Moller. They traveled with him to tournaments throughout the Midwest, encouraged his development as a golfer and instilled in him the value of hard work.
His years playing at Southern Hills Golf Course, representing Hot Springs High School and competing alongside teammates who became lifelong friends remain among his most meaningful memories.
A Legacy of Excellence
From helping build a championship golf program to capturing conference, regional and state titles, Mark Moller exemplified dedication, continuous improvement and competitive excellence.
His achievements brought distinction to Hot Springs High School, while his appreciation for his family, teammates and hometown reflects the lasting spirit of Bison athletics. Hot Springs has always remained home to Mark, and his connection to the school and community continues to be an important part of his story.
Kelly Northrup
Kelly Northrup’s coaching career was defined by championship success, unwavering dedication, and a lasting commitment to developing young women both on and off the court — qualities that make her a deserving inductee into the Hot Springs Bison Athletics Hall of Fame.
Leadership of Lady Bison Volleyball
As head coach of the Hot Springs Lady Bison volleyball program, Kelly brought exceptional energy, discipline, and passion to the court.
Her teams were known not only for their talent, but also for their preparation, resilience, and ability to compete at the highest level. Through demanding practices, clear expectations, and steady leadership, she helped establish Hot Springs as one of South Dakota’s premier volleyball programs.
State Championship Success
Under Kelly’s leadership, the Lady Bison achieved an extraordinary run of success at the state tournament:
1999: Eighth-place state finish
2000: State champions
2001: State champions
2002: State runners-up
Winning consecutive state championships in 2000 and 2001 placed the Lady Bison among the most accomplished teams in school history. The program’s return to the championship match in 2002 further demonstrated the consistency and high standards Kelly established.
A Culture of Excellence
Kelly’s impact extended far beyond victories, trophies, and championship banners. She created a team culture rooted in:
Accountability
Respect
Discipline
Determination
Grit
Trust
Family
Her athletes were expected to work hard, support one another, and represent Hot Springs with pride. Kelly continually challenged her players to become stronger competitors while also helping them develop confidence, maturity, and personal responsibility.
Mentorship Beyond the Court
Former players remember Kelly as more than a volleyball coach. She was a mentor whose lessons continued to influence them long after their playing careers ended.
Her guidance helped young women understand the value of perseverance, teamwork, preparation, and personal character. Many of her former athletes have carried those lessons into their families, careers, and communities, passing them along to the next generation.
A Generational Impact
Kelly’s influence has been felt across generations of Hot Springs athletes. The standards she established and the relationships she built created a legacy that continued long after the final point of each season.
Her former players have continued to share the lessons they learned under her leadership with their own children, students, athletes, and teammates. That enduring influence reflects the depth of Kelly’s impact on the Hot Springs community.
A Legacy of Championship Leadership
From guiding the Lady Bison to consecutive state championships to helping generations of young women become disciplined, confident, and resilient leaders, Kelly Northrup represents the very best of Hot Springs athletics.
Her championship record reflects her ability as a coach, but her greatest legacy can be found in the lives she shaped, the character she developed, and the lasting sense of family she created within the Lady Bison volleyball program.