LENOIR – The Caldwell County Sports Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024 has been selected. It marks the 35th class of inductees since the service project was started by the Caldwell County Rotary Club in 1989. The purpose of the Caldwell County Sports Hall of Fame is to recognize and perpetuate the noteworthy sportsman traditions of Caldwell County by honoring and memorializing the individual who have made extraordinary contributions to sports traditions in Caldwell County.
The inductees are: James (Jimmy) Rich, Jr (posthumously), an outstanding basketball player for Collettsville High School in the 1960s who also participated in Industrial League Softball after high school. Neil Adams, a three sport All-Star athlete for Hibriten High School in the 1980s and played for the Post 29 American Legion team and college baseball. Joel Carroll, a three sport All-Star athlete for Hudson High School in the 1960s, a multi-sport college athlete in college for Gardner-Webb and Lenoir Rhyne College, and a long-time coach and educator for the Caldwell County Schools. Myron Day, an athlete for Hudson High School in the 1970s, who has been involved in coaching in the community for over 45 years including coaching his first team at age 15 and with coaching the Post 29 American Legion team for over 20years.
The four new inductees bring the total number of 142 individuals recognized during the 35 classes. Plaques for all previous inductees are on display upstairs at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center. Assisting the Caldwell County Rotary Club with this community service project is corporate sponsor, Blue Ridge Energy.
The Sports Hall of Fame will also honor a team of excellence: The 1981 Junior League 13yr old baseball team that won the N.C. State Championship. Players and coaches of the team will be recognized at the event.
The Caldwell County Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremonies are set for Monday, October 28th at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center. Ceremonies begin at 6:30pm with a catered meal by the Broyhill Center Catering Group. Tickets will soon be available at First Horizon Bank locations in Caldwell County for $25.00. For more information about tickets, contact Karen Trivett at 828-244-5511 or for more information about the Hall of Fame or to obtain a nomination form for future consideration, contact Chris Cole at 828-496-2038.