32 NORTHERN MAGAZINE Leaders Who Built the Legacy Behind every great program are people who shape it. Few names in college basketball are more respected than Don Meyer, who, upon his retirement after the 2009–2010 season, held the record for the most wins of any men’s basketball coach in NCAA history. His impact at Northern — and across the sport — went far beyond victories. On the football field, Clark Swisher authored one of the most dominant eras in school history. In 23 seasons as head coach, his teams compiled a 153–40–4 record, outscoring opponents 5,090 to 2,271, and posting four perfect seasons without a loss or tie. One of Swisher’s student-athletes was Jim Kretchman, whose Northern story is uniquely fitting: he served the university as a football player, football coach, professor of health and physical education, and athletics director — embodying the deep connection between athletics and education that has always defined the institution. Another legendary figure is Curt Fredrickson, who served as head women’s basketball coach for 39 seasons. His history of winning is virtually unsurpassed with an 846–306 record, two NAIA National Championships, and numerous conference titles. Few people have left a broader mark on Northern athletics than Bob Olson. A Northern double graduate (1977 with a bachelor’s degree and 1980 with a master’s degree), Olson helped build the Wolves into a national basketball power, compiling a 305–129 record, winning six conference titles, and guiding NSU to multiple NAIA and NCAA Division II national tournament appearances, including back-to-back NAIA runner-up finishes in 1994 and 1995. He later served 13 years as athletic director, continuing to shape the direction of the entire department. Whether on the court or in the administration, Olson played a defining role in building the modern era of Northern athletics. 125 Years — And Still Moving Forward From the days of Northern Normal and Industrial School to today’s modern university, athletics has remained a constant thread in Northern’s story. Facilities have changed. Sports have evolved. Generations have come and gone. But the heart of Northern athletics has not. It is still about students who choose to challenge themselves. About teams that represent something bigger than themselves. About a community that shows up — in winter, in wind, in celebration, and in challenge. And when the Wolves take the field, the court, the track, the mat or the pool today, they don’t just represent this season. They represent 125 years of pride, tradition and the enduring spirit of Northern. Football players form an “N” by the columns in 1948.
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