LIVONIA, Mich. — Madonna University Athletics is proud to announce its 2025 Hall of Fame Class. This year's inductees include legendary Baseball Head Coach Greg Haeger, volleyball standout Amanda Nies (Suder), women's soccer star Kelly Schodowski (Japowicz), and the 2019 Women's Cross Country Team, the first team in school history to win a national championship.

"The 2025 Hall of Fame class represents the very best of what Madonna Athletics stands for," said Crusader Director of Athletics Noel Emenhiser. "From Coach Haeger's record-setting leadership in baseball, to Amanda Nies' (Suder) legacy of excellence with the volleyball program, Kelly Schodowski's (Japowicz) lasting impact with soccer, and the historic 2019 women's cross country team that captured our first national title, each inductee has shaped our programs, inspired their teammates, and community, and left a lasting legacy that will resonate for generations of Crusaders."

The Madonna University Athletic Hall of Fame was established to recognize those who have made significant contributions to the tradition of Crusader athletics as athletes, coaches, and administrators. In doing so, they have enhanced the image and reputation of Madonna University. The Hall of Fame is located in the Alliance Catholic Credit Union Arena at the PAAAC and honors 21 prior inductees.

Greg Haeger | Baseball Head Coach | 1997-2016

The all-time winningest coach in Madonna baseball history, Greg Haeger will now be enshrined in the Crusaders' Hall of Fame alongside two of his former players, Aaron Shrewsbury (Class of 2009) and the late Jeremy Gooding (Class of 2023). Haeger served as Madonna's head baseball coach from 1997 to 2016, guiding the program to 651 victories over 1,069 games.

During his 20-year tenure, Haeger established Madonna as one of the premier programs in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC). His teams won 20 or more games in 18 different seasons, highlighted by a program-record 48 victories in 2010. Under his leadership, the Crusaders captured 11 WHAC regular-season championships, including four consecutive titles from 2008 to 2011, and five WHAC tournament titles. He was also recognized nationally as a three-time NAIA Region Coach of the Year.

Reflecting on the honor, Haeger shared: "I'm honored to represent the Madonna Baseball program and be inducted into a group of athletes, coaches, and facilitators that shaped Madonna Athletics."
Haeger's legacy is defined not only by wins and championships but also by the culture of consistency, competitiveness, and class that he instilled in Madonna baseball for two decades.

Amanda Nies (Suder) | Volleyball | 2000-03

One of the most decorated defensive specialists in Madonna volleyball history, Amanda Nies (Suder) built a legacy of excellence that continues to resonate within the program. A four-year standout for the Crusaders, she earned All-Conference recognition in three consecutive seasons, including Second Team honors in 2001 and First Team selections in 2002 and 2003.

Her senior season in 2003 remains one of the most remarkable in WHAC history. She was named both Player of the Year and Libero of the Year, a rare achievement for a defensive specialist. That same year, she capped her career by earning NAIA Honorable Mention All-America honors. Statistically, she ranks second all-time at Madonna in career digs (2,492) and sixth in digs per set (3.99).

Nies was also a key member of the 2002 Crusader team, already enshrined in the Madonna Athletics Hall of Fame (Class of 2015). Widely regarded as the greatest team in program history, the 2002 squad advanced to Madonna's first NAIA Final Four, finishing with a 48–4 record while sweeping both the WHAC regular-season and tournament titles.

Her legacy is also deeply tied to her family. Nies is the niece of Hall of Fame head coach Jerry Abraham, the pioneer of NAIA athletics at Madonna who built the volleyball program from the ground up in 1987 and guided it to national prominence.
Reflecting on her induction, Nies shared: "I am truly honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. To be recognized alongside the incredible volleyball players and athletes who came before me is such a privilege. I grew up as a Little Lady Crusader 'ball girl' for the volleyball team, so this program has always been a part of me. This honor means so much not only to me, but also to my family, and I know none of it would have been possible without the support of my parents, coaches, and teammates."
Through her individual accolades, championship pedigree, statistical milestones, and family connection to the very foundation of Madonna athletics, Amanda Nies (Suder) holds a distinguished place among the all-time greats in Crusader volleyball.

Kelly Schodowski (Japowicz) | Women's Soccer | 2003-07

One of the most prolific scorers in Madonna women's soccer history, Kelly Schodowski (Japowicz) left an indelible mark on the Crusader program. She ranks second all-time in career points (132) and goals (56), tied for sixth in career assists (20), and holds the program record for shots on goal (177).

During her standout career, Schodowski earned First Team All-Conference honors three times and was recognized nationally as a two-time NAIA Honorable Mention All-American in 2005 and 2006. In 2005, she was also named WHAC Offensive Player of the Year, underscoring her impact as a dynamic and consistent offensive force.

Reflecting on her induction, Schodowski shared: "This honor is incredibly humbling and deeply meaningful to me. To be counted among such a small number of women who have come before me is a privilege, and I give thanks to God for His goodness in my life. My years at Madonna University shaped me in so many ways and gave me lifelong relationships with teammates and staff, along with memories I will always cherish. I am truly grateful for their support and the many blessings my experience at the school has provided. It is very special to be recognized by the place where I experienced so much growth and joy through the game."

Schodowski's scoring ability, play making, and leadership helped elevate the competitiveness and profile of Madonna women's soccer, setting a standard for future Crusaders.

2019 Women's Cross Country National Championship Team

The 2019 Madonna University women's cross country team etched its place in Crusader history by capturing the program's first-ever NAIA National Championship. Competing at the 40th annual NAIA Women's Cross Country National Championships in Vancouver, Washington, the Crusaders clinched the title with 111 points, outpacing runner-up College of Idaho by 36. The team showcased exceptional depth and cohesion, finishing with a 1–5 spread of just 34 seconds and an average time of 18:35.
Christina Murphy led the way, finishing 14th with a time of 18:22.1. She was followed closely by Alison Shapic (18:23.5) and Mackenzie Gurne (18:24.7), both earning All-American honors for the second straight year. Kathleen and Caroline George contributed valuable points with 38th- and 46th-place finishes, while Erin Seibert, the WHAC Newcomer of the Year, and Kateri Mills rounded out the scoring with strong performances.

"So proud of this group of women," said Head Coach Patrick Daugherty. "They were good runners who over three years became a great team. Everything we did on the roads, track, course, weight room, and in meetings was done with purpose, focus, determination, and years of consistency. They earned everything they accomplished… three years finishing ninth, then second, and finally National Champions. Exceptional people who became the best TEAM!"

This historic victory not only marked a pinnacle in the program's history but also underscored the team's dedication, unity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Their achievement continues to inspire future generations of Crusaders and solidifies their legacy as trailblazers in Madonna University athletics.

UP NEXT

The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place in the Welcome Center Great Room on Thursday, October 9, at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at mucrusaders.com/tickets.

CONNECT WITH THE CRUSADERS: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
SUBSCRIBE/DOWNLOAD TEAM SCHEDULES: Download Center