PRESS RELEASE: The Sports Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding professionals and amateurs in the field of sports, living or deceased, who have gained prominence or made substantial contributions to sports in the City of Yonkers.

YONKERS: Established in 1966, the Yonkers Sports Hall of Fame was formed to honor residents for their playing ability, integrity, character, sportsmanship and advocacy of sports.

They must have brought honor, fame and prestige not only to themselves, but also to the #CityOfYonkers.

Their actions must have inspired young people to participate and their example must have encouraged others to promote and initiate community sports and recreation programs.

The names of those selected will be honored at an awards ceremony, and forever enshrined upon the plaques that are displayed at the Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation, located at 285 Nepperhan Avenue in Yonkers.

“Our Sports Hall of Fame is a special way of honoring past and present residents who have enhanced Yonkers through their athletic accomplishments,” said Mayor Spano.

“Throughout the years, many outstanding citizens have gained prominence and fame within the world of sports. The pride and honor they brought to others should live on as symbols of achievement and examples of hard work for future generations.”

Some of the Sports Hall of Fame members include:

· Track & Field Coach Dr. Richard A. Hill
· Olympic Swimmer Lea Loveless
· Football Coaches Anthony and Donald DeMatteo
· Boxer Luis Hernandez

Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals they feel are worthy of the Hall of Fame at Https://www.yonkersny.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation-conservation/about-us/sports-hall-of-fame

Sufficient information including photos, newspaper clippings, etc. is necessary to be submitted.

To be eligible for nomination to the Yonkers Sports Hall of Fame, an individual must meet the following criteria of eligibility:

· Attain local, state and national recognition and prominence in either professional or amateur sports as a player, coach, manager, official, owner, writer, broadcaster or any special category as established by the Committee.

· Candidate must be a retired participant of the sport for a period of five years or have passed his/her 55th birthday.

· Must have resided in Yonkers for a minimum of 15 years.