"excellence within athletics functions like a well developed ecosystem. you played such a large role in in creating that. it all filters down, from putting the right administration in place, to the correct staff, to recruiting the student athlete who is successful on and off the field. supporting things financially and the people emotionally. providing the facilities that breed success. it all functions dynamically as one. thank you so much for helping create such a grand environment, one that i got to find my own role in to help carry on the tradition of laker excellence. "
"I was on the first football team at GVSU and played because I was a tall and well built basketball player for Tom Sharphorn, bball was my major sport. I have watched in amazement at how GV has grown, matured and become a dominant force in sports, pretty much in thanks to you Don! You supported athletics and it has shown. Congratulations on the success of YOUR programs and I hope to see Lubbers Stadium sometime this year, however living in CA makes it difficult. Congratulations again Don! Bob Oosdyke Class of 72"
"I was a member of the GVSU Mens Rowing Team while attending Grand Valley, and the excellence and comradery has left a lifetime impression on me. Coach Springer was an excellent role model, as was yourself, and led to my own path fulfillment to become a successful physician after medical school in a career in Otolaryngology, yet in my spare time still compete athletically. Thank you for your meaningful inspiration. -Mark Spitzer"
