Sports Hall of Fame

They set themselves apart from others in the arenas, the hardwood courts, and the playing fields. They won acclaim for running the fastest, jumping the highest, winning championships and otherwise distinguishing themselves in high school, college and at professional levels. To honor its sports legends, the Society annually inducts new members into the ranks of the Sports Hall of Fame.

In the Fall of 1983, Dr. Ellis Hoffman and other members of the Lawrence County Historical Society’s Board of Directors approached New Castle News Managing Editor, Robert Vosburg, with an idea of organizing a committee to research local athletes and preserve their achievements through a formal recognition ceremony. Vosburg organized a committee, established guidelines and went to work. Hoffman focused much of his attention on uncovering the achievements of athletes who were long departed so that they would not be forgotten to the annuals of time.

The first class was inducted in the spring of 1984. This inaugural class included: Dick Allen, Phil Bridenbaugh, Darrell Dess, L. Butler Hennon, Don Hennon, Walter Mangham, Bill McPeak, C.G. “Buzz” Ridle, Chuck Tanner, and Lewis “Hack” Wilson.

Dr. Hoffman passed away in 2002 following a battle with cancer but left behind quite a benevolent legacy and a pride in his community which he helped to change for the better.