Alpena Sports Hall of Fame induction celebrates athletic achievements

News Photo by Leslianne Johns
This year’s Alpena Sports Hall of Fame inductees, Tony Skiba, Nathan Barden, Ashley Hunault Williams, and Eric Muszynski stand together at the annual banquet held at the APlex on Saturday.

ALPENA — The atmosphere was electric as the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame welcomed its four newest members, recognizing the exceptional contributions and achievements of local athletes. The event was not just a celebration of individual excellence but also a testament to the collective spirit of the Alpena community.

Liz Klemens, the evening’s speaker, encapsulated the essence of the ceremony.

“Athletes and statistics aside, the fine qualities and characteristics of our inductees are a reflection of their hard work and success,” Klemens said. “Guiding lights for our continuing work. The skill and agility of Tony Skiba, the dedication and mentorship of Eric Musznynski, the power and pride of Nathan Barden, the speed and strength of Ashley Hunault Williams. You each have left your mark.”

Eric Musznynski, whose legacy in Alpena basketball is well-regarded, reflected on the collective effort behind his achievements.

“I really feel being inducted was that I was fortunate to play with a great group of teammates and coaches who were motivated to win and dedicated to changing the culture of Alpena Basketball,” Muszynski said. “As a team, we were highly successful, and when you have team success, individual accolades follow. My success wouldn’t be made possible without my high school coach Dave McDonald, my parents, my wife Lindsey, teammates, players, and Hillman Community Schools.”

Tony Skiba’s journey in sports has been a lifelong passion, something he continues to pass on through coaching.

“I never considered not playing soccer or hockey,” Skiba said. “This is the first year I didn’t play men’s league hockey, so the love for the game is still in me. I also help coach my daughter in soccer, so I am still involved there as well.”

Ashley Hunault Williams’ story is one of resilience and strength, both on and off the field.

“My two biggest accomplishments outside of athletics are my family and beating cancer,” she said. “First and foremost, my son, Tronix. I’m proud every day to be his mom and am looking forward to adding a sibling to our family later this year. This past year I faced the biggest challenge of my life when I was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. Surviving that, making it to remission, and getting to be a mother to my son every day are my biggest accomplishments.”

For Nathan Barden, the induction was a moment of reflection on his multifaceted life achievements.

“The award was a great honor and a walk down memory lane of all my previous athletic accomplishments that I was able to reminisce with all my family and friends who were there when it happened,” Barden said. “My life’s goal has always been to be a great father and a great husband, which I continue to try to work hard at every day. I have just finished my 18th year with the Alcona Health Center, with the past 15 of them being the Medical Director. Having such a great career with AHC has allowed our family to pursue our passion for travel.”

The induction ceremony was more than just an acknowledgment of personal achievements; it was a celebration of the community’s spirit and support.

Each inductee’s journey highlighted the importance of teamwork, family, and resilience, serving as an inspiration to all.

As Liz Klemens aptly put it, “Each of you — the inductees — has had a profound impact on sports history on Alpena and beyond.”

The event not only honored the individual accomplishments of Eric Musznynski, Tony Skiba, Ashley Hunault Williams, and Nathan Barden but also showcased the unyielding support and dedication of the Alpena community, ensuring that the legacy of excellence continues for generations to come.