For some students, sports are a crucial part of their growth and development. Sports help in the development of mental health and physical fitness of the body, and by participating in sports, students may gain skills, experience, and confidence that help develop their personality. And some may achieve greatness and be recognized for their accomplishments. The Hempfield High School Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has announced the 15th class of Hempfield Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, Sept. 18, at 5:30 p.m. in the Wheatland Credit Union Cafeteria at Hempfield High School, 200 Stanley Ave., Landisville.

Steve Beck, Class of 1973, will be inducted for his time as the Hempfield swimming and diving team head coach from 2001 to 2017. Inductees will also include Sydney Clark Hitchcock, Class of 2008, for tennis, cross-country, and track and field; Linda Eby Silva, Class of 1977, for field hockey and track and field; Kelli Jolie Bechtel, Class of 2010, for soccer; and Austin Miller, Class of 2011, for wrestling. The 1996 Hempfield High School boys' volleyball team and 2005 football team will also be inducted. The late Don Bissinger will be inducted for his time as a coach and administrator for wrestling, soccer, football, and basketball.

In an interview with the Merchandiser, Miller and Bechtel talked about their biggest supporters and what their induction means to them.

Merchandiser: Who would you say supported and encouraged you most during your time as a high school athlete?

Miller: Growing up, my dad had me, like, brainwashed in a really good way. Every year when I was in elementary and middle school, he would take me to the high school wrestling state tournament and he would sit there in the stands, point at the winner, and say to me, "That's going to be you."

Bechtel: My mom (and) dad and my coaches Keith Nagley and Melissa Groff were instrumental in my development. Nagley's belief in me really meant a lot to me and gave me confidence, not just as a player, but also as a person.

Merchandiser: What does being inducted into the Hempfield Hall of Fame mean to you?

Miller: It's really cool. I appreciate it a lot. It's kind of an odd feeling because it's based on my accomplishments from so long ago, but it means a lot to be recognized.

Bechtel: I'm super excited and honored. Hempfield has a special place in my heart because it played a significant role in my life. It will be great to come back and express my gratitude to what Hempfield has meant to me.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided at the ceremony. To attend the event, email Jeffrey Bradley at Jeffrey.bradley6@gmail.com or text 717-327-8218. Registration will close on Saturday, Sept. 11.