Night of Impact shines spotlight on a remarkable class of Muskie leaders and champions
Last Friday’s Night of Impact, presented by Carol Goff & Associates, celebrated an outstanding class of inductees: Dean Thornton ’09 (Track & Field), Erin (Zupko) Witker ’04 (Softball), and Dr. Ken Blood (Special Category).
Last Friday's Night of Impact, presented by Carol Goff & Associates, celebrated an outstanding class of inductees: Dean Thornton '09 (Track & Field), Erin (Zupko) Witker '04 (Softball), and Dr. Ken Blood (Special Category).
Thornton made history as a sophomore when he became Muskingum's first-ever All-American in the 100-meter dash. Competing at the 2005 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships at Benedictine University, he delivered a career-best time of 10.56 seconds, cementing his place among the nation's elite sprinters and making a landmark moment for the Muskingum track & field program. His breakthrough performance earned him All-American honors, making him just the eighth male student-athlete in Muskingum outdoor track & field history to receive the national distinction. A standout All-Ohio Athletic Conference sprinter throughout his career and Muskingum's record holder in the 200-meter dash, Thornton was a three-time All-OAC honoree (2005, 2006, 2007) and consistently elevated the competitiveness and visibility of Muskingum's sprinting program.
Witker played a central role in Muskingum softball's remarkable run from 2001-2004. During her four seasons, Muskingum claimed four OAC Championships, four OAC Tournament titles, three NCAA Regional crowns, and the 2001 NCAA National Championship. The team's dominance during that time was reflected in its 171-27 (.864) overall record and 69-3 (.958) mark in OAC play. Witker's individual accomplishments were equally impressive. A two-time captain, she earned First Team All-OAC honors in 2001, 2003, and 2004, Second Team All-OAC recognition in 2002, and closed her career with First Team Academic All-OAC honors in 2004. She was also selected to the NFCA Central All-Region team in 2003. After graduating, she remained part of the program as a graduate assistant from 2004-2006, helping mentor student-athletes and support the continued strength of Muskingum softball.
Blood's service to Muskingum spans two meaningful chapters in his career, first from 1982 to 1989, and again from 1998 to 2020. Over more than 30 years, he made a profound impact on the health and well-being of Muskingum student-athletes and helped shape the direction of athletic training at the University. Throughout his tenure, Blood served as Head Athletic Trainer, Director of Athletic Training, and Assistant Professor. He played a key role in creating Muskingum's undergraduate athletic training program, building its foundation, guiding its curriculum, and mentoring generations of students who went on to careers in the field.
Night Of Impact presented by Carol Goff & Associates
