Ernie Anderson eschewed personal glory. Instead, he celebrated his gifts through the accomplishments of the students who learned under his guidance and the athletes who showcased their talents on the basketball court.

So it was fitting that, when Anderson was asked to speak at a luncheon in his honor, after the College that was so much a part of his life named their gymnasium floor for him, his response was simple.

"I really should just say 'thanks' and 'Amen.' That would be appropriate," said Anderson at the Feb. 17 luncheon, where more than 150 former players, fellow coaches, and friends gathered to celebrate Augsburg's dedication of the Melby Hall center court in his honor. Later that afternoon, during the halftime of the men's basketball game against Gustavus Adolphus College, the court was officially dedicated as the "Ernie W. Anderson Court."

"I need to thank all of you and remember all the wonderful things these young men did while they were here," said Anderson, deflecting the honors from himself to his players.

However, others were quick to point out the true man of honor in the celebration.

"This College stands today on the shoulders of giants, and those shoulders include yours," said President William Frame at the luncheon.

Anderson served the College as men's basketball coach for 23 seasons and as athletic director for 34 years, in addition to teaching in the health and physical education department for nearly four decades.

The College originally honored Anderson, along with fellow athletic department legend Edor Nelson, in 1984, when the outdoor athletic field was christened as Anderson-Nelson Field. The field will be rededicated in Nelson's honor in fall 2001.

Several former players returned to campus to join in the celebration of Anderson's accomplishments, and most said their lives were changed from the lessons learned on the court from the gentle coach.

"Ernie had a way of making us feel confident and prepared to play our games," said Dan Meyers '65, who played for Anderson's teams from 1961-65. "Ernie made learning the game fun and easy. I never heard harsh or cruel words from Ernie. He has been a Christian example of living life in a quiet way. He does not bring attention to himself."

Dan Anderson '65, considered one of the greatest players in school history, said that his coach was a true role model and mentor.

Ernie Anderson has been a member of the Augsburg community since the 1930s, when he attended the Augsburg Academy as a prep student. He played basketball and baseball at Augsburg, graduating from the College with a history degree in 1937.

Marilyn Florian '76, women's athletic director, said that as a young coach early in her career, Anderson gave her a chance to return to her alma mater. Florian served the College as volleyball coach for 18 seasons.

"Ernie role-modeled leadership, integrity, commitment, and caring. He had a long-lasting influence on Augsburg students, faculty, and staff," Florian said.

"I have a personal thank-you to give Ernie," said Florian. Twenty-one years ago, in her second year teaching and coaching, Anderson called to encourage her to apply for LaVonne (Mrs. Pete) Peterson's position when she retired. "Without that call," Florian said, "I wouldn't be here today."

Chris Kimball, vice president for academic and learning services, noted that of the many reflections on the impact Anderson had on the College and its community, records and accomplishments are rarely mentioned.

"This has not been about wins and losses," Kimball said. "But it's about values, commitment, and personal integrityóthings that make Augsburg such a wonderful place and have made Ernie a wonderful example to all the people who have been affected by him.

As for Anderson, after the numerous standing ovations in his honor were concluded, with his family and friends surrounding him, his thank-yous were as simple and direct as his lifetime of service to Augsburg College.

"I would just say thank you. I appreciate what has been said, and I hope I can live the rest of my life as an example to others," he said.

Don Stoner is sports information coordinator.

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