Mark Speckman's inspirational story separates the one-time Oaks linebacker from the rest of the 2009 Hall of Fame class, if ever so slightly. Speckman overcame the perceived handicap of being born without hands to play his way into the starting lineup at Menlo, where he excelled for two years (1972-1974). After transferring from the junior college to Azusa Pacific University, he was named an Honorable Mention All-American in 1976.

Speckman joined the coaching ranks after wrapping up his playing career, eventually landing at Willamette University. Over the past 11 seasons he has accumulated a 63-48 record as the Bearcats head coach, including an 11-1 mark, No. 4 final ranking in the D3football.com Poll and Northwest Conference title in 2008. As a coach, Speckman has followed the same trailblazing path he set as a player, coaching the first female college football player and becoming one of the founding experts of the fly offense.

In addition to his coaching duties, Speckman spends time each year giving motivational speeches across the country. Speckman's inspirational story has reached corporate giants such as Nike and Blue Cross, middle schools, high schools, youth organizations, church groups, law enforcement, as well as legal and medical professionals.