Hemlock Public School District hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 3, 2025 to officially open the completed Wallace Field & Krueger Track complex, welcoming Bea Wallace, Patricia Krueger, their families and friends, members of the undefeated 1974 Hemlock High School football team, and Col. David J. Green (HHS ’89), U.S. Army Judge Advocate, for an evening that blended celebration, remembrance, and Huskie pride.
Following the ribbon cutting at the stadium entrance, guests took a commemorative walk around the new track, then joined the pre-game festivities as the Huskies stormed the field through the inflatable Huskie helmet tunnel. Tributes to legendary coach Bob Wallace and beloved teacher-coach Don Krueger were read over the public-address system before kickoff, followed by a first-quarter recognition of Col. David J. Green for his military and legal service. The district then hosted a private fellowship reception for honorees and guests on the Legend Gymnasium upper patio, where alumni and community members reminisced and watched the game together. (Facebook)
“This project is about legacy and learning,” said Board of Education President Matt Wesener. “Wallace Field and Krueger Track honors these two tremendous coaches, educators, and community members whose many years of service set standards of excellence that shaped generations of Huskies.” (Hemlock Public School District)
Superintendent Dr. Don Killingbeck added, “From the first concept sketches to our recent ribbon cutting, our community has stood shoulder-to-shoulder to #PullTheSled. This field and track are more than a surface and a scoreboard—they are a launchpad for student health, teamwork, and achievement. Thank you to everyone who invested time, talent, and treasure to make this a reality.”
Honoring Two Remarkable Legacies
The new complex bears the names of Coach Bob Wallace, whose teams compiled a 134–47–2 record (including a dominant 1968–1974 run), and Coach/Teacher Don Krueger, for whom the high school track was officially dedicated in 2023. Background on both honorees and the district’s prior dedications can be found here: “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants | Bob Wallace” and “HPSD Announces Naming of the High School Track in Honor of Don Krueger.”(Hemlock Public School District)
1974 Team & Alumni Recognition
As part of the celebration, Hemlock welcomed back members of the undefeated 1974 football team, whose legacy continues to inspire today’s student-athletes. The district’s recent invitation detailing the schedule and recognition can be found on the HPSD news page and social channels. (Hemlock Public School District)
Learn More & Related Coverage
• Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting details (Live Feed & posts). (Hemlock Public School District)
• Program tribute to Bob Wallace (background feature). (Hemlock Public School District)
• Official 2023 track naming for Don Krueger (district news). (Hemlock Public School District)
• 1974 Team invitation (district news). (Hemlock Public School District)
• Col. David J. Green (U.S. Army JAG—professional profile). (Top Military)