Greenville University

The Greenville University athletic department will honor three individuals and one team with induction into its Athletic Hall of Fame at Greenville University's Alumni Honors Ceremony on Saturday, October 25, 2025.  The Hall of Fame entries include Lynn A. Carlson (Athlete/Coach - Baseball; Class of 1993), Kyle D. Krober (Athlete - Football; Class of 2002), Jarod E. Renford (Athlete - Men's Track & Field; Class of 2008), and the 1988 Baseball Team.  In addition, Gianni Estrada (Men's Track & Field; Class of 2025) will receive the Order of the Orange and Black.

Carlson was a standout two-sport athlete and legendary coach. He has been a cornerstone of Greenville athletics for over three decades. As a pitcher, he led Panther Baseball with outstanding performances, before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1990 and competing professionally. He also contributed on the hardwood during four seasons of Panther Basketball. Returning to Greenville, he became Head Baseball Coach in 1997, amassing a school-record 561 wins over 28 seasons. His teams earned SLIAC championships and NCAA tournament appearances in 2006, 2015, and 2017. His impact as both player and coach has left a lasting legacy of excellence and dedication. 

Krober was a record-setting quarterback and field general for Greenville College Football from 1998–2001 with unmatched skill and determination. He rewrote the record books, setting school marks in passing yards (9,150), total offense (10,239), and touchdowns. His standout 2000 season earned him NCCAA and IBFC First Team honors while ranking among the NCAA's best in multiple offensive categories. He led the nation in games passing for 200+ yards and ranked 6th all-time in single-season total offense. His leadership and prolific play cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Greenville College history. 

Renford was a dominant force in Track & Field from 2005–2008, leaving an indelible mark on Greenville College athletics. Under Coach Brian Patton, he earned ten NCCAA titles, eleven runner-up finishes, and was a three-time NCAA All-American. In 2008, he became Greenville’s first NCAA National Champion in any sport, winning the 110m hurdles with a DIII-best 14.22. He set multiple school records in hurdles, relays, and sprints, and was consistently recognized with MVP and Most Points awards. His unmatched speed, leadership, and competitive spirit earned him a well-deserved place in the Greenville University Athletic Hall of Fame. 

The 1988 Greenville College Baseball Team delivered a historic season under the leadership of Coach David Altopp, finishing with a 28-19 record—a new program best for most wins in a single season. Their outstanding performance included a second-place finish at the Christian College Tournament in Cocoa, Florida, with a 7-1 record, and a strong showing in both the NCCAA District IV Playoff and the NCCAA National Tournament, where they placed fifth. Marked by record-breaking performances and award-winning seasons, many players earned All-Conference, All-District, and even All-American awards. Their grit, unity, and competitive excellence set a new standard for Panther baseball. 

Estrada exemplifies the true spirit of The Order of the Orange and Black, balancing excellence in athletics, academics, and Christian leadership. A two-time NCAA National Qualifier and multiple-time conference champion, Gianni’s dedication and determination made him one of Greenville’s most accomplished runners. Beyond athletics, he excelled in the classroom as a psychology major and faithfully served his campus and community through programs like FM Roots, church camps, and small group leadership. His commitment to faith, learning, and sport reflects the highest ideals of Greenville University, making him a model student-athlete and a deserving member of this prestigious honor.