Semandel is a native of Stratford, Wis. and has spent his adult life in the Milwaukee area. He became involved with ice hockey when his sons began public skating at the State Fair Park Ice Rink. In 1971, after registering his boys with Milwaukee SHAW, Semandel became very involved with the SHAW organization during its formative years. Over the next few years he served his association as a coach, manager, travel team director, referee, director of coaches and two years as president of the association. As a youth coach, Semandel won three WAHA State Championships. As his children grew up, Semandel went on to become one of the best referees in the Milwaukee area. In 1990, he became the coach of the Milwaukee Flyers in the Badger State League, where his team won three league championships in ten years. He served as coach and manager of the team until 2005. Semandel continues to serve SHAW as the Alumni Director and a member of the development program. As a parent, coach, association officer and referee, Semandel has contributed to all aspects of the growth of hockey in the Milwaukee area. Semandel is retired from A.O. Smith, where he was the Motor Fleet Manager. He and his wife Bonnie Joy live in West Allis and have two sons, Kurt and Troy. Selected for induction with Semandel are Kurt Steiner of Green Bay, and John Galloway of Neenah. The Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame was founded in 1975 and is housed in the Eagle River Sports Arena. The hall was established to honor outstanding individuals responsible for the development, growth and success of amateur ice hockey in the State of Wisconsin.
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