WINONA, Minn. — Jamie (Rattunde) Nelson B’05 was a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court — and her efforts during her four years as a Cardinal did not go unnoticed.
One of the most decorated women’s basketball players in program history, Nelson is days away from collecting yet another honor, this one on a far grander scale — being inducted into the Saint Mary’s Sports Hall of Fame.
Nelson, along with Jenny (Folgers) Baertsch B’05 and Marc Weisenburger B’75, will be recognized and honored as part of the third annual Cardinal Excellence Fund Dinner, which will be held at Visions Event Center in Winona on Saturday.
When I received the news of my induction, it was a moment of profound honor, a realization that my years of dedication to Saint Mary’s women’s basketball had been recognized in the most extraordinary way,” reflected Nelson. “It was a humbling moment, one that I will forever cherish.”
A four-year regular for the Cardinals, Nelson helped guide the Cardinals to the MIAC post-season tournament each of her four years — including a semifinal appearance in 2004-05. She was a D3hoops.com Second-Team All-Region as a senior, not to mention landing First-Team All-MIAC honors in each of her final three seasons, while being selected to the MIAC All-Defensive Team all four years. Nelson closed out her collegiate career averaging 14.3 ppg and 7.9 rpg, while recording 350 steals and dishing out 385 assists. Nelson ranks first in program history in free throws made (423), free throws attempted (596), and minutes played (3271), while also ranking in the top five in eight other career categories.
“Being inducted into the Saint Mary’s Sports Hall of Fame is a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and passion for athletics,” Nelson said. “This recognition represents not only personal achievements, but also the support and encouragement of teammates, coaches, and the entire community.
“As the newest member, I am humbled and proud to be part of such a distinguished group.”