The Polk County I-Club played host to 800 Hawkeye fans and I-Club members at their annual spring banquet on Tuesday night in Clive.  Former Hawkeye great and member of the men’s basketball administrative staff Ryan Bowen, assistant wrestling coach Terry Brands, Director of Athletics Gary Barta and Kirk and Mary Ferentz spoke at the event.  Awards were given to football players Brett Greenwood, Jeff Tarpinian and Karl Klug and a special assistant coach’s award was presented to strength and conditioning coach Chris Doyle.  Jon Miller served as the event’s MC.

Mary Ferentz made a special appearance at the event to promote the “Ladies Football Academy” which will take place at Kinnick Stadium on June 18 and will benefit the UI Children’s Hospital.   The fundraising event includes some hands-on football instruction from Iowa coaches, a meal and a way for people to learn more about the UIHC.  The crowd also heard from Greenwood, Tarpinian and Klug as well as Coach Doyle.

I-Club spring banquets are a vehicle to bring Hawkeye fans together as well as raise money for Iowa Athletics and increase membership in the I-Club.  Polk County is one of the best at achieving these goals, donating over half a million dollars over the life of the Club to UI athletics.  Led by Polk County I-Club President Joe Chmelka, the 2011 event was one of the best.  Joe commented that “the standing ovation for Coach Chris Doyle was moving.  It reminded me that the Hawkeye faithful are a special group – generous, loyal and so committed to their support of Iowa Athletics”.  Polk County I-Club treasurer Kim Bradwell commented that the event’s auction items and sponsorships brought in well over five thousand dollars, which all goes directly to the UI Foundation to support athletics.  Event ticket sales revenue and other gifts collected at the event also contribute to the Polk County I-Club’s gift to the Foundation.