Celebrating Cleveland's Sports Legends: A Night of Honors and Memories

Cleveland's sports scene shone bright as five new faces joined the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame. This wasn't just about celebrating athletes; it was about honoring those who've made a mark in sports and beyond. The event took place at the Urban Community School Roundstone Athletic Center, drawing over 400 attendees. Each inductee brought a unique story, from the basketball court to the track, the football field, the octagon, and behind the scenes. Wanda Ford, a standout basketball player from East Tech, shared her journey from Cleveland's housing projects to Drake University, where she became the first woman in NCAA history to grab 1, 500 rebounds. She's now a physical education teacher and youth basketball coach, proving that her impact goes beyond the game. Tianna Madison, a world-class long-jump champion and sprinter, spoke about how sports made her visible. She won three Olympic gold medals and now coaches at San Jose State University. Stipe Miocic, a mixed martial arts heavyweight champ, credited his success to his family and hard work. He's a Golden Gloves boxing champion, standout wrestler, and former baseball player. Chris Spielman, a former NFL linebacker, couldn't attend but sent a video message, humbled by the recognition. Jack Turben, honored for meritorious service, has been instrumental in making sports inclusive and supporting the hall's mission. The hall itself is a treasure trove of sports memorabilia, from boxing programs to Olympic skater sweaters. It's a place where Cleveland's rich sports heritage comes alive, inspiring future generations. The event also saw $15, 000 grants awarded to two youth organizations, Empower Sports and Rec2Connect, supporting non-profit youth sports groups.