Curt Albert recently accepted his award for being inducted into the Kirkwood Basketball Hall of Fame. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

CEDAR RAPIDS — South Tama County High School alumni Curt Albert was recently inducted into the Kirkwood Basketball Hall of Fame. Albert graduated from STC in 1997 and was a two year starter for the Trojans basketball team.

He then went on to play at Kirkwood for the 1997-98 and 1998-99 seasons before going on to play at Grand View University in Des Moines. During his time at Kirkwood, Albert was a part of the Kirkwood men’s basketball team that won the school’s first NJCAA National Title in 1998. The Eagles defeated Sinclair Community College in the championship game by a score of 73-61.

When asked about what making it into the school’s hall of fame meant to him and his team, Albert reflected on what they achieved together.

“We are all so appreciative of the college, our coaches, and the entire administration for recognizing our accomplishment. We have stayed very close over the 25 years coming back a few times for reunions,” he said. “I am especially grateful that my children, who all play basketball, got to experience it and see what hard work and determination can bring.”

Albert also shared his favorite memories from his time playing basketball at Kirkwood.

The 1998 Kirkwood Eagles national championship team, which included STC alum Curt Albert, celebrates after their 73-61 win over Sinclair Community College. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“I always enjoyed the travel to and from games on the buses with my teammates. A lot of bonding was done and long-lasting friendships made. It was truly a brotherhood,” he said.

When asked about how the South Tama and Kirkwood basketball communities impacted him as a player and person, Albert gave credit to all of the schools where he played.

“I credit my basketball experiences at South Tama, Kirkwood, and Grand View for shaping me into the driven person I am today in my career,” he said. “Sports are always a great way to test your mental and physical limits while also growing in determination and leadership.”

Finally, Albert provided some advice for young athletes in the Tama-Toledo community that aspire to accomplish similar achievements.

“My advice for the youth would be to immerse yourself in any sport and stick to it. Appreciate both the fun of it and also the life long lessons it can bring and how it can help shape your future,” he said.

Members of the 1998 Kirkwood Eagles championship team reunited 26 years later to celebrate making it into the school’s basketball hall of fame. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The South Tama basketball community congratulates Curt Albert on his impressive accomplishment.