WICHITA, Kan. -- Friends University Athletics enthusiastically announces the induction of four new inductees into the Athletics Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class.
The four new inductees are Emma Koepp, Jacob Bruster, Robin Johnson and the 2011-12 Track & Cross Country programs.
"Congratulations to Emma, Jacob, Robin, and the 2011-12 track and cross country teams," said Dr. Rob Ramseyer, Friends University VP of Athletics & Strategic Expansion. "Each of them is well deserving of this honor, and we are looking forward to celebrating with them and their families on Oct. 2 and again at the homecoming game the next afternoon."
Emma Koepp (Women's Soccer)
Formerly Emma Cuda, Koepp ended her career as the top Falcon goal scorer of the modern era and now ranks second all-time with 43 career goals. A four-time All-KCAC performer and a three-time first-team selection, Koepp also ranks third all-time in program history with 14 assists. Her success transcended beyond the pitch, as Koepp received top honors in the classroom by being named the 2016 CoSIDA Academic All-American of the Year for College Division Women's Soccer.
"I am truly humbled to be in a position to receive this honor," said Koepp. "Moments like this are best shared with the people who helped make them possible. First, I want to thank my family -- my parents, my sister, and my husband for all the years of unwavering support and encouragement. I also want to thank all my teammates and the coaching staff. All of you made a lasting impact on my time at Friends University, both on and off the field. This honor would not have been possible without your support, friendship, and the memories we created together."
Jacob Bruster (Football)
A true one-of-one player, Bruster became the first-ever Falcon to be named an AFCA first-team All-American in 2008. He was also an NAIA first-team All-American that same season while earning two first-team All-KCAC nods in 2007 & 2008. Bruster anchored an offensive line that produced approximately 400 yards per game along with 59 touchdowns.
"I'm incredibly honored to be inducted into the Friends University Athletics Hall of Fame," said Bruster. "Looking back, I'm reminded that this recognition isn't just about me. It reflects my coaches, teammates, family, and friends who believed in me and made this journey possible. I'm grateful to share this honor with all of them."
Robin Johnson (Athletic Training)
Having just completed his 25th year at Friends and 23rd year as Head Athletic Trainer, Johnson can accurately be described as an institution within the Friends University institution.
While overseeing all 24 varsity sports at Friends as head athletic trainer, Johnson specifically focuses on providing top-notch coverage for the Falcon cross country and track & field teams.
Appropriately named the 2025-26 KCAC Head Athletic Trainer of the Year, Johnson's most important contribution this past season didn't occur on any playing surface, as his quick action was responsible for helping save a man's life following a medical emergency at the Falcons' home track meet back in April.
"I am honored to have been selected by the Friends University HOF committee for inclusion as a 2026 inductee," said Johnson. "It has been a pleasure to work with so many great people over my 25 years at Friends University. The most rewarding moments, however, come from working with our student athletes. It truly is an honor watching them grow and succeed during their years here, and they all have made my time here very special."
2011-12 Track & Cross Country programs
Under then head coach Brad Peterson, the 2011-12 Falcon Track & Cross Country teams ran roughshod through the conference that season, winning all six KCAC team titles across the 2011-12 campaign. No other Friends track and cross country had ever run the conference table in that fashion. The team success wasn't limited to the conference ranks, as the Women's Cross Country Falcons finished fifth at the NAIA National Championship meet and the Cross Country Men finished 16th nationally. The Women's Indoor Track & Field team also came in 16th at the NAIA National event.
"I am honored to be recognized along with the track and cross country teams I coached in 2011-2012 for the 2026 Hall of Fame!" said Peterson. "That year was a truly special year where we did things we had always dreamed of doing. To see it all come to fruition was something I will never forget. This will be a great reminder of what great people we had on those teams!"
Members of the track & field and cross country team are encouraged to reach out to administrative assistant Teresa Hoover at teresa_hoover@friends.edu for more information on homecoming weekend.
The honorees will be officially inducted during an award ceremony on the evening of Oct. 2 at the Ninth Floor Revenue (formerly the Petroleum Club) to coincide with homecoming weekend. The class will also be recognized during the homecoming football game vs. Ottawa University the following afternoon at Adair-Austin Stadium.
