For More Information Contact
Chris Cluss or George Von Benko
P.O. Box 664
Uniontown, PA 15401
724-415-2211
gvb@ix.netcom.com

 

Braxton Inducted Into The Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame

On Saturday November 2nd Fayette County Sports Hall of Famer Jim Braxton was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame at a banquet in Drexel Hill, PA. Braxton who passed away in 1986 was represented by his widow Pam Braxton!


Pam Braxton with Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co founder George Von Benko at the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducts its 2024 class


Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducts its 2024 class on June 21, 2024 at Pleasant Valley Golf Club in Connellsville, PA. Inductees From left are (front) Tom Sankovich (1982 Connellsville baseball team); Jeff Spinetti; Jennifer Surlas; Ashley (Foley) Weishaar; and Connie Kostelnik, representing her late husband, Tom; (back) George Von Benko; Bill Thomas (representing Willie Bryant); Jack Smarslak; Ray Smitley (Penn State Fayette baseball); Fran Novak; and Stu McLee.

 

Sports Line Interview with Jim Wardman talking about Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee the late Tom Kostelnik


 

Sports Line Interview with Stu McLee


 

Sports Line Interview with Ray Smitley on 2004 Penn State Baseball team and Ray Parson on the late Willie Bryant!


 

Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Ashley Foley Weishaar


 

Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Jack Smarslak


 

Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Jeff Spinetti


 

Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Jen Surlas


 

Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Fran Novak


Sports Line Interview with 2024 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee George Von Benko


 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announces 15th Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce the 2024 class of inductees.

The class consisting of 9 individuals and two teams will be enshrined at a Hall of Fame Golf outing/Luncheon/Social starting at 9 am. on June 21, 2024 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA

The inductees will be recognized through the Uniontown Herald Standard Newspaper, George Von Benko's Sports Line Talk Show on WMBS Radio, the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame web page and the new Hall of Fame facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-organization/Fayette-County-Sports-Hall-of-Fame-106342634880603/.

Leading the way for the 2024 class is the top vote getter in voting by the Hall of Fame membership former Uniontown Red Raider WPIAL and PIAA wrestling champion Jeff Spinetti.

Also selected: Former Connellsville track and basketball and Mount St. Mary's track standout Ashley Foley Weishaar and former Uniontown High School WPIAL and PIAA high jump champ Stu McLee.

Former South Union football, basketball and track and Pitt football player Fran Novak and former Laurel Highlands High School baseball, basketball and soccer and West Virginia baseball stalwart Jack Smarslak were also elected to the 2024 class.

Also tabbed for induction are former Geibel High School and George Mason basketball standout Jen Surlas, and selected for Special Recognition is Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co-founder and longtime radio broadcaster and sportswriter George Von Benko a graduate of Laurel Highlands.

Two deceased inductees are in the 2024 class including former Uniontown and Penn State basketball player Willie Bryant. Also in the deceased category former Brownsville High School and Notre Dame football standout Tom Kostelnik.

Two teams are being enshrined the 1982 Connellsville WPIAL Champion baseball team and the 2004 Penn State Fayette Campus Region 20 Juco baseball champs.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing is slated for 9 am Friday June 21, 2024 at Pleasant Valley Country Club, the Hall of Fame Luncheon will follow the golf outing. Golfers can register by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2211 or emailing kpropes@occluss.com.

Luncheon tickets are also on sale.


For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 880-4548 .

 

 

Stringer Inducted Into Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame


Legendary women's basketball Coach C. Vivian Stringer a native of Edenborn, PA and a Fayette County Sports Hall of Famer was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame at a banquet in Allentown, PA on October 28, 2023. Unfortunately due to a medical emergency Stringer was unable to attend the event. She was repesented by her brother Tim Stoner and son Justin Stringer. Photo caption: Tim Stoner (L) brother of C. Vivian Stringer and Justin Stinger (R) son of C. Vivian Stringer pose after her induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame with her Induction Certificate and medallion.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts 2023 

Class The 2023 class was inducted on Friday June 16, 2023 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA. A golf outing with 104 golfers preceded the Hall of Fame Luncheon attended by 275. Nine individual indutees and two teams were enshrined in the 2023 class. 

 

2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductees are (from left) Dave Davison, Rick Hauger, Gilbert Floyd, Jocelyn Chandler, West Turner, Rich Giachetti (accepting for his father, Richie Giachetti), Dick Albani (accepting for the 1954 Masontown Little League team), Mandy Hartman (accepting for the 2010 Frazier volleyball team), Vince Petno, Reggie McLee (accepting for the late Ernie Davis) and Vince Nesser. 

 

George Von Benko Sports Line Interview with Frazier High School volleyball coach Mandy Hartman on the induction of her 2010 WPIAL Championship team into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/hartman?si=35a797e857f64f059ad265d5e5b1c396&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing George Von Benko Sportsline Interview with Reggie McLee on his late uncle Ernie Davis and his induction into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame. https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/mclee?si=b66e7a6ea5d74b29943c9b9b9dc56c77&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing George Von Benko Sports Line interview with former Uniontown basketball standout Jocelyn Chandler on her induction into 2023 class of the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame. https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/chandler?si=5df69125485c4952ba47d42ce66717a0&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

George Von Benko Sports Line Interview with Joe Hatalla on 2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductees 1954 Masontown Little League Champions

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/joe-hatalla?si=e57150d709cd47adbb5e511034117293&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

 

Nesser Honored By WPIAL 

 

Jim Nesser accepts Heritage Award at WPIAL Hall of Fame banquet on behalf of his late father Fayette County Sports Hall of Famer Lash Nesser.

George Von Benko Sportsline Interview with 2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Vince Petno 

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/vince-petno?si=de1491da611748eaad2cd0ad39ca6d08&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

George Von Benko Sportsline Interview with 2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Gilbert Floyd

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/gil-floyd?si=00646d1cad8f4179bb62b80a7df0e957&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

George Von Benko Sportsline Interview with 2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Vince Nesser 

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/vince-nesser?si=c90bce2d6d254cd9b32181216a0ebb45&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

Here is George Von Benko Sports Line Interview with 2023 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee West Turner.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/west-turner?si=ed3b4d8817a443aa8d590a55590f7c9e&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

 

Here is George Von Benko Sports Line Interview with Rick Giachetti talking about his late father Rich Giachetti who will be inducted into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame June 16.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/gvb-with-rick-giachetti?in=user-94071533/sets/gvb-interviews-5-13-2023 Here is George Von Benko Sports Line interview with Coach Rick Hauger who will be inducted into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame on June 16.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/gvb-with-rick-hauger?in=user-94071533/sets/gvb-interviews-5-13-2023

 

 

Into the Hall Article

 

 

George Von Benko Sportsline Interview with Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2023 Inductee Dave Davison

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces 14th Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce the 2023 class of inductees.

The class consisting of nine individuals and two teams will be enshrined at a Hall of Fame Golf outing/Luncheon/Social starting at 9 am. on June 16, 2023 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA

The inductees will be recognized through the Uniontown Herald Standard Newspaper, George Von Benko's Sports Line Talk Show on WMBS Radio, the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame web page and the new Hall of Fame facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-organization/Fayette-County-Sports-Hall-of-Fame-106342634880603/.

Leading the way for the 2023 class is the top vote getter in voting by the Hall of Fame membership Laurel Highlands head basketball coach Rick Hauger..

Also selected: Former St. John's High School and Saint Vincent College basketball standout Vince Nesser and former Albert Gallatin and Washington and Jefferson football player Gilbert Floyd.
 
Former Brownsville graduate and professional bowler Dave Davison and former Uniontown High School and Duquesne University women's basketball standout Jocelyn Chandler were also elected to the 2023 class.

Also tabbed for induction are former South Union High School and Citadel football player Vince Petno, former Connellsville High School and WVU football stalwart West Turner.

Two deceased inductees are in the 2023 class including former Syracuse Heisman Trophy winner Ernie Davis. Also in the deceased category former North Union High School graduate and famed boxing trainer Rich Giachetti.

Also being enshrined are two teams  the 1954 Masontown Little League All Stars who captured the Pennsylvania Little League crown and finished third in the Little League World Series and the 2010 Frazier girls WPIAL volleyball champions.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing is slated for 9 am Friday June 16, 2023 at Pleasant Valley Country Club, the Hall of Fame Luncheon will follow the golf outing. Golfers and those seeking luncheon tickets can register by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2211 or emailing kpropes@occluss.com
For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 880-4548

 

 

 

 

Cunningham Inducted Into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame

Fayette County Sports Hall of Famer Jim Cunningham was enshrined in the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame at a banquet Saturday night October 29th in Reading, PA.

Photo Caption: Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Co-Founder George Von Benko and Jim Cunningham at the
Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet in Reading, PA October 29, 2022.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2022


(L-R) Ted Nypaver, Beth Corcoran representing Bob Hlodan, Mike Bradley representing Pat Bradley, Carl Carbonara, Pete Logan representing 2001 Brownsville Basketball Team, Marissa Dugan, Robin (Guerriere) Amend, Miles Cohen representing Les Cohen, Kaitlynn Johnson, Dan Andria and John Unice. Missing from photo Wilbert Scott.

2022 Golf Outing Photos

2022 Luncheon & Induction Photos

2022 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Luncheon 6-17-2022


 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2022 Golf Outing and Induction Luncheon Tickets

Reservations are now open for our annual golf outing/induction luncheon on Friday, June 17. Please respond ASAP and no later than June 1 as we anticipate an early sell-out for this event!

Click here to download the luncheon form

Click here to download the 2022 letter

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2022 Articles

Robin (Guerierre) Amend

 

Carl Carbonara

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2022 WMBS Interviews

Robin (Guerierre) Amend

Carl Carbonara

Miles Cohen representing his deceased uncle Lester Cohen

Dan Andria

John Unice

Mike Bradley the brother of the late Pat Bradley

Wilbert Scott

Ross Brown talking about former teammate Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee the late Bob Hlodan

Ted Nypaver

Kaitlyn Johnson

Dan Traficante talking about Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2022 Team Inductee the 2001 WPIAL Champion Brownsville Falcons

Marissa Dugan

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces 13th Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its 2022 class of inductees.

The class consists of 11 individuals and one team and will be enshrined at the Hall of Fame Golf outing/Luncheon/Social starting at 9 am. on June 17, 2021 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA

The inductees will be recognized through the Uniontown Herald Standard Newspaper,
George Von Benko's Sports Line Talk Show on WMBS Radio, the Hall of Fame web page: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com, and the new Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Facebook page.

Leading the way for the 2022 class is the top vote getter as voted by the Hall of Fame membership is Uniontown High School and Washington & Jefferson College basketball standout and high school and college coaching legend John Unice.

Also selected: Uniontown High School wrestling and football stalwart Carl Carbonara,and Albert Gallatin and Indiana University of Pennsylvania women's softball player Marissa Dugan.

Uniontown High School and Clarion All American swimmer Kaitlyn Johnson and Geibel High School and Saint Francis University women's basketball standout Robin (Guerriere) Amend were also elected to the 2022 class.

Also tabbed for induction are South Union High School graduate Ted Nypaver who was a Hall of Fame high school football coach, Fairchance Georges and Albert Gallatin basketball coach Dan Andria, and Connellsville High School, Indiana University and CFL football standout Wilbert Scott.

Three deceased inductees are in the 2022 class including Saint John's High School basketball star Pat Bradley.

In addition in the deceased category includes Uniontown and Pitt basketball standout Les Cohen and Albert Gallatin and Middle Tennessee State running back Bob Hlodan.

The team being enshrined is the 2001 WPIAL 3A basketball champion Brownsville Falcons.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing is slated for 9 am Friday June 17, 2022 at Pleasant Valley Country Club. The Hall of Fame Luncheon/Social Induction Ceremony will follow the golf outing. Golfers can register by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2211 or emailing kpropes@occluss.com
For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 880-4548

 

Happy Holidays Ticket Winner

Nesser Inducted Into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame

Fayette County Sports Hall of Famer James "Lash" Nesser was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame on October 30,2021. Nesser who passed away in 1988 coached at Uniontown St. John HS and Uniontown HS, he was represented by his daughter Kathie Pasquarella at the dinner at The Sheraton Station Square in Pittsburgh, PA.


Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Co-founder George Von Benko with Kathie Pasquarella prior
to the Pennsylvania State Hall of Fame banquet October 30,2021.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Golf Outing

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts 12th Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducted its 12th class at a Hall of Fame Golf outing/Luncheon/Social on June 25, 2021 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA. On a beautiful day 103 golfers played in the event and an additional 80 attended the luncheon/social.

The class consisting of 13 individuals was enshrined including: former Geibel High School and Gannon University women's basketball standout Shelley Bortz.

Also enshrined: Former Laurel Highlands High School and Pitt track and cross country stalwart Jason Bodnar, and former Brownsville and James Madison women's basketball player Krystal Brooks.

Former Uniontown High School and Kentucky golfer Lauren George Clemmer and former Uniontown track standout Terence Jackson were also elected to the 2020/2021 class.

Also honored were former Dunbar High School graduate Ross Kershey who was a Hall of Fame basketball and track coach at Coatesville High School, former Connellsville and Edinboro University wrestler Jarrod King, and former Frazier High School, New Mexico State and University of Buffalo football standout Chad Salisbury

Five deceased inductees are in the 2020/2021 class including former German Township High School football and basketball coach Adam Donnelly.

Also in the deceased category former German Township and Pitt football player and track star Dr.Ted (Konetsky) Kell, former Laurel Highlands soccer coach Fran Lemansky, former Masontown and Albert Gallatin football coach John Lozar and Uniontown football and basketball standout Wilfred Minor.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame also honored some WPIAL and PIAA champions from area high school's.

In attendance were:

2019-20 Fall Season: Gionna Quarzo, Brownsville, WPIAL Class 2A Girls Cross Country champion

2019-20 Winter Season: Laurel Highlands, WPIAL Class 5A Boys Basketball champions

2019-20 Winter Season: Maria Mrosko, Laurel Highlands, WPIAL Class 2A Swimming (100 butterfly) champion

2019-2020 Winter Season: Laurel Highlands (Maria Mrosko and Ella Ciez), WPIAL Class 2A Swimming (200 Medley Relay) champions

2020-21 Fall Season: Jolena Quarzo, Brownsville, WPIAL Class 2A Girls Cross Country champion

2020-21 Spring Season: Jolena Quarzo, Brownsville, WPIAL and PIAA Class 2A Track & Field (3,200 run) champion

2020/2021 Hall of Fame inductees will be honored at next year's banquet, June 18, 2022 at Penn State Fayette Campus.


2020/2021 Class First Row (L-R) Jill Craft John representing Dr. Ted Kell, Lauren George Clemmer, John Lozar representing John Lozar, Arlene Lemansky representing Fran Lemansky, Jason Bodnar
2nd Row (L-R) Jarrod King, Terence Jackson, Krystal Brooks, Gene Huey representing Wilfred Minor, Shelley Bortz, Chad Salisbury


Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co founder George Von Benko presents Hall of Fame plaque to Lauren George Clemmer


Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co founder George Von Benko presents Hall of Fame plaque to Terence Jackson

Hall of Fame Articles

Rob Burchianti at the Herald Standard is doing a series of articles on the Hall of Fame and this year’s inductees.
Read the articles here.

Hall of Fame Interviews

George Von Benko interviews former German Township football player Tony Tokish on The Sportsline about late German football and basketball coach Adam Donnelly who will be inducted in the 2020/2021 Class of the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/gvb-tony-tokish-interview-5-22-2021

On the Sportsline George Von Benko interviews former Frazier High School standout Chad Salisbury about his upcoming induction in the 2020/2021 Class of the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame. 

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/gvb-chad-salisbury-interview-11-22-2021

George Von Benko interviews Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2020/2021 Inductee Shelley Bortz on The Sportsline on WMBS Radio

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George Von Benko interviews Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2020/2021 Inductee Jarrod King on The Sportsline on WMBS Radio



Listen to George Von Benko interview on the Sports Line with Hall of Famer Gene Huey and Andre Shaw as they discuss the late Uniontown football and basketball standout Wilfred Minor who is part of the 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame class.





George Von Benko Sports Line interview with 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Ross Kershey.



Listen to George Von Benko Sports Line interview with Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame 2020/2021 inductee Terence Jackson.




George Von Benko Sports Line interview with Fayette County Hall of Fame inductee Lauren George Clemmer.




Listen to George Von Benko interview with 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Jason Bodnar.

https://soundcloud.com/user-94071533/jason-bodnar

Listen to Sports Line interview with former Albert Gallatin football player Greg Lofstead talking about his coach the late John Lozar a 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee.




George Von Benko interviews 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Krystal Brooks.


On the Sports Line George Von Benko interviews Fred Kell about his late father Dr. Ted (Konetsky) Kell a 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee.



George Von Benko talks about late Fran Lemansky a 2020/2021 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee with his son Bart Lemansky. 


 

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces 12th Class

After a pause in 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce a 2020/2021 class of inductees.

The class consisting of 13 individuals will be enshrined through the Uniontown Herald Standard Newspaper, George Von Benko's Sports Line Talk Show on WMBS Radio, the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame web page and the new Hall of Fame facebook page.

Inductees and representatives will also be recognized at a Hall of Fame Golf outing/Luncheon/Social starting at 9 a.m. on June 25, 2021 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, PA.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be no banquet this year. 2020/2021 inductees will be honored at next year's banquet, June 18, 2022 at Penn State Fayette Campus.

Leading the way for the 2020/2021 class is the top vote getter in voting by the Hall of Fame membership former Geibel High School and Gannon University women's basketball standout Shelley Bortz.

Also selected: Former Laurel Highlands High School and Pitt track and cross country stalwart Jason Bodnar, and former Brownsville and James Madison women's basketball player Krystal Brooks.

Former Uniontown High School and Kentucky golfer Lauren George Clemmer and former Uniontown track standout Terence Jackson were also elected to the 2020/2021 class.

Also tabbed for induction are former Dunbar High School graduate Ross Kershey who was a Hall of Fame basketball and track coach at Coatesville High School, former Connellsville and Edinboro University wrestler Jarrod King, and former Frazier High School, New Mexico State and University of Buffalo football standout Chad Salisbury

Five deceased inductees are in the 2020/2021 class including former German Township High School football and basketball coach Adam Donnelly.

Also in the deceased category former German Township and Pitt football player and track star Dr.Ted (Konetsky) Kell was elected.

Also being enshrined are former Laurel Highlands soccer coach Fran Lemansky, former Masontown and Albert Gallatin football coach John Lozar and Uniontown football and basketball standout Wilfred Minor.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing is slated for 9 a.m. Friday June 25, 2021 at Pleasant Valley Country Clubs. Golfers can register by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2211 or emailing kpropes@occluss.com
For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 880-4548.

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall Of Fame Launches Facebook Page

Facebook

 

Fayette County Sports Hall Of Fame Cancels 2020 Banquet

The global Covid 19 pandemic has prompted some Western Pennsylvania sports traditions to cancel events. The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame has canceled its 2020 Announcement Social slated for early May and its Golf outing and banquet scheduled for the weekend of June 19th and 20th.

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Chris Cluss announced the decision.

“After discussion with some board members, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Fayette County Hall of Fame Program”, Cluss stated. “In 2021 we will carry forward the 2020 slate of nominees to be considered for 2021 Induction. Good luck – please stay safe and healthy!”

“We're pushing the 2020 class into 2021,” said George Von Benko co-founder and E xecutive Chair of the Hall of Fame.

“There were many, many reasons for that. First of all, I didn't think people were going to be really comfortable with getting together in a group that size for the banquet. Even our committee couldn't get together for the same reason. We have so many people, (Board Chair) Cluss and I felt it was not a good idea at that point for us to get together in a room and go through all of this.”

Next year's banquet is scheduled for Saturday June 19, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, with the golf outing on Friday June 18.

“We're hoping to come back strong in 2021,” Von Benko said.

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall Of Famer Ron Sepic Inducted Into the PA Sports Hall of Fame

Fayette County Sports Hall Of Famer Ron Sepic one of the greatest basketball and football players to come out of Uniontown High School was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame on Oct. 5.

Sepic was part of a 2019 Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame class that included: Living: Steve Cesari (wrestling), Fran Dunphy (basketball coach), J. Caryn Kadavy (figure skating), Suzie McConnell Serio (basketball coach), George Novak (football coach), Lionel Simmons (basketball), Mark Stepnoski (football), Andy Talley (football), Ricky Watters (football); Deceased: Chuck Daly (basketball), Dennis Green (football coach), Andrew Musser (broadcaster).

 

 
 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts 11th Class

A crowd of 400 was in attendence Saturday night June 22, 2019 as the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducted it's 11th class consisting of 10 individuals and one team. Here are photos from the event.


Photo captions: The 2019 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame class: (seated, from left) Gary Klingensmith, Ray Trincia, Dave Marovich, Bobby Locke (representing the 1952 Redstone baseball team), Ray Yauger, (standing, from left) William Epps (representing Tory Epps), Bobby Galasso, John “Lefty” Radosevich, Ellen (Loui Hall) Guillard, Nick Bosnic and John Hull. 


The 1952 Redstone WPIAL championship baseball team:(from left) Bobby Locke, Ed Cassurole and Tom Gmutza.



Uniontown’s Jayden Thomas and Frazier’s Brooke Poling accept their awards for being named the Outstanding Scholar-Athletes of the Year during the 2019 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Each received a $500 scholarship from the Hall of Fame for the honor.

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces 11th Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its 11th class of inductees. The class consisting of ten individuals and one team will be inducted at a banquet on June 22, 2019, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

This year the Hall will induct: Former Uniontown High School and Penn State football standout John Hull.

Also selected: Former Laurel Highlands High School and Duquesne University basketball stalwart Nick Bosnic, and former Albert Gallatin and Duquesne basketball star Ellen (Loui Hall) Guillard.

Former Brownsville High School and Penn State football player Gary Klingensmith and former Laurel Highlands and Clemson football standout Ray Yauger were also elected in the 2019 class.

Also tabbed for induction are former Connellsville baseball pitcher Bob Galasso, who went on to have a lengthy career in professional baseball, former German Township and West Virginia University baseball pitcher John “Lefty” Radosevich, and former South Union High School and Grove City basketball and track standout Dave Marovich.

In the coaching category former Albert Gallatin High School basketball coach Ray Trincia was selected.

In the deceased category former Uniontown High School and pro football player Tory Epps was elected.

One team was selected in the 2019 class: Redstone High School's 1952 WPIAL baseball champions.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday June 22, 2019 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2211. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 21 at Pleasant Valley Country Club. The Hall of Fame Banquet after party will be at Marilyn's on Main in Uniontown.
For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.


2019 Inductee John Hull speaks at the Fayette County Sports Hall of fame Announcement Social.

2019 Inductee Gary Klingensmith addresses the crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Social.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Welcomes 10th Induction Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducted its 10th class at its annual banquet on Saturday evening June 16th at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.The banquet attracted a crowd of over 360 and concluded the Hall of Fame weekend that started with the Hall of Fame golf outing on Friday June 15th at the Uniontown Country Club.


2018 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Class: (seated, from left) Jane Shuck (representing the late Dave Shuck), Kristi Leskinen, Beth Swink, Netty DiVirgilio (representing the late Henry DiVirgilio), Ed Colebank (representing the 1974 German Township boys basketball team), Don Law, (standing, from left) Joe Hrezo, Dan Spanish (representing the 1991 Connellsville football team),
Jack Buehner, Jim Hobgood, Ray Parson and Hal Weightman.


Caption: 2018 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Student Athletes of the Year
Ian Edenfield Laurel Highlands High School and Maeve Carei Uniontown High School

 

 


 
 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Inducts Tenth Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its tenth class of inductees. The class consisting of ten individuals and two teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 16, 2018, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

This year the Hall will induct: Former Uniontown High School football standouts Joe Hrezo and Ray Parson.

Also selected: Former Laurel Highlands High School and Univesity of Virginia basketball stalwart Jim Hobgood.

Former Brownsville High School and Michigan State star football player Don Law and Former Laurel Highlands and Penn State football standout Jack Buehner were also elected in the 2018 class.

Also tabbed for induction is former Connellsville High School basketball and softball star Beth Swink, who went on to have an outstanding basketball career at Saint Francis of Pennsylvania.

In the coaches category former Frazier High School basketball coach the late HenryDiVirgilio was selected along with deceased former Uniontown High School basketball coach Dave Shuck

Special Recognition is bestowed on former Laurel Highlands graduate Kristi Leskinen, a free style skiing star and former longtime Connellsville basketball and golf coach Hal Weightman.

Two teams were selected in the 2018 class: German Township High School’s 1973-74 WPIAL Championship basketball team, and Connellsville High School's 1991 WPIAL Championship football squad.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday June 16, 2018 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2260. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 15 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 
 
 
       
 

Wil Robinson Inducted Into Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Wil Robinson has been enshrined in the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. The former Laurel Highlands and West Virginia University basketball star was inducted on Saturday October 28, 2017 at the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet in Williamsport, PA.


Wil Robinson with Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame executive co-chairman George Von Benko at the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet October 28, 2017 in Williamsport, PA.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Inducts Ninth Class

 
 

On Saturday night June 17, 2017 a crowd of a little over 400 was on hand at Penn State Fayette The Eberly Campus as the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame enshrined it's ninth class.

Photo caption: 2017 HOF Class: First Row L-R: Pete Barchetti (Representing 1950 Masontown Football), Denise Gallo, Lois Henck (Representing Husband Jack Henck), Vanessa McLee Hall (Representing Brother Kevin McLee), Tom Holliday, Robert "Buddy" Ward.

Second Row L-R: Jim "Happy" Ford, Jeff Rae (Representing Father Tom Rae), Mike Hardy, Dana Perno (Representing 1975 Uniontown Basketball), Don Woodward and Bill Marovic.


 
 

2017 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame female athlete of the year Madison Wiltrout from Connellsville High School.

 

2017 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame male athlete of the year Hudson Novak from Laurel Highlands High School.
 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces Ninth Class

d
2017 Hall of Famer Mike Hardy speaks at Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Social on May 3.
d
2017 Hall of Famer Bill Marovic addresses the crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Social on May 3.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its ninth class of inductees. The class consisting of ten individuals and two teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 17, 2017, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall will induct: Former German Township High School football standouts Jim “Happy” Ford and Robert “Buddy” Ward.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame selected: Former German Township High School and West Virginia University baseball stalwart Bill Marovic.

Selected for induction from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former Connellsville High School and Slippery Rock University star basketball player Mike Hardy.

In the 1980 to 1996 era: Former Connellsville High School and Pitt Johnstown basketball standout Denise Gallo.

In the coaches category former Brownsville High School track coach Jack Henck was selected along with former Uniontown High School graduate and longtime college baseball coaching legend Tom Holliday.

The slots in the deceased category was filled by former Uniontown High School and University of Georgia football star Kevin McLee, and former South Union and Maryland football player and high school coaching standout Tom Rae.

Special Recognition is bestowed on former Albert Gallatin graduate Don Woodward, a longtime collegiate and high school official.

Two teams were selected in the 2017 class: Masontown High School’s 1950 WPIAL Championship football team, and Uniontown High School's 1974-75 WPIAL Championship basketball squad.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday June 17, 2017 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2260. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 16 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts Eighth Class

2016 inductees

2016 Class First Row L-R: Joe Lafko, Barbara Simon George representing her father Elias 'Disey' Simon, Darwin Stalnaker, Becky Oglevee, Donald 'Doc' Franks representing 1974 Albert Gallatin Football Team.

Second Row L-R: Rod Wheeler, Robert 'Bo' Scott, George Bortz, Ray Gillian, Tom Sankovich representing 1973 Connellsville Baseball Team.

A crowd of 460 was in attendance on Saturday night June 18 at Penn State Fayette the Eberly campus. The class included nine individuals and two teams.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall inducted: Former Perry High School and Clemson football standout Bill Thomas who is deceased.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame inducted: Former Uniontown High School and Ohio State football stalwart Ray Gillian.

Also inducted in the 1960 to 1969 era was former Connellsville High School and Ohio State running back Robert "Bo" Scott who also played for the Cleveland Browns.

Two athletes were inducted from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former German Township High School and California University of Pennsylvania star wrestler Darwin Stalnaker, and Laurel Highlands and Waynesburg University basketball player Rod Wheeler.

In the 1980 to 1996 era: Former Frazier High School and Westminster basketball standout Joe Lafko, and Uniontown High School and Duquesne University basketball player Becky Oglevee were inducted.

In the coaches category former Geibel High School girls basketball coach George Bortz was inducted.

The slot in the deceased category was filled by former basketball, football official and baseball umpire Disey E. Simon

Two teams were inducted in the 2016 class: Albert Gallatin High Schoolís 1974 WPIAL Championship football team, and Connellsville High School's 1973 WPIAL Championship baseball squad.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame held it's annual golf outing on Friday June 17. 88 golfers participated in the event at Uniontown Country Club.

scholarship winner Stalnaker Golfing
2016 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Athletes of the Year, received $1,000 scholarships. Albert Gallatin's Tanner Kutek and Laurel Highlands Ashley Galderisi. Hall of Famer Darwin Stalnaker tees of at the 2016 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Golf Outing.

 


 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces Eighth Class


New Hall of Fame inductee Joe Lafko addressing crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame announcement social on April 27

New Hall of Fame inductee Becky Oglevee addressing crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame announcement social on April 27

Big Crowd on hand for Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Social April 27

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its eighth class of inductees. The class consisting of nine individuals and two teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 18, 2016, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall will induct: Former Perry High School and Clemson football standout Bill Thomas who is deceased.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Uniontown High School and Ohio State football stalwart Ray Gillian.

Also selected in the 1960 to 1969 era is former Connellsville High School and Ohio State running back Robert “Bo” Scott who also played for the Cleveland Browns.

Two athletes were selected for induction from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former German Township High School and California University of Pennsylvania star wrestler Darwin Stalnaker, and Laurel Highlands and Waynesburg University basketball player Rod Wheeler.

In the 1980 to 1996 era: Former Frazier High School and Westminster basketball standout Joe Lafko, and Uniontown High School and Duquesne University basketball player Becky Oglevee were elected to the 2016 class.

In the coaches category former Geibel High School girls basketball coach George Bortz was selected.

The slot in the deceased category was filled by former basketball, football official and baseball umpire Disey E. Simon

Two teams were selected in the 2016 class: Albert Gallatin High School’s 1974 WPIAL Championship football team, and Connellsville High School's 1973 WPIAL Championship baseball squad.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday June 18, 2016 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2260. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 17 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts Seventh Class

A crowd of 480 was on hand on Saturday night June 20 as the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inducted it's seventh class at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. The Hall of Fame weekend got underway on Friday June 19 with the annual Hall of Fame golf outing at Pleasant Valley Country Club.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall will inducted: Former North Union High School and Maryland football standout Tom Sankovich.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Uniontown High School and University of Wyoming football stalwart Gene Huey.

One player was selected for induction from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former Uniontown High School and Penn State star football player Tom Hull.

In the 1980 to 1994 era: Former German Township High School and California University of Pennsylvania football standout Sam Mannery was elected to the Class of 2015.

In the coaches category former Albert Gallatin High School grid boss Donald "Doc" Franks, and Dunbar HS, Albert Gallatin HS and Waynesburg University basketball coaching legend Rudy Marisa were selected.

Two slots in the deceased category were filled by former German Township High School and University of Omaha basketball star Sam Sims and former Lafayette Junior High School basketball coach Robert Fee.

Former Uniontown Recreation Department Director and Uniontown School District teacher the late J.S. "Bus" Albright was a special recognition selection.

Three teams were selected in the 2015 class: Uniontown High Schoolís 1925 WPIAL and State Championship basketball team, Uniontown High School's 1981 WPIAL and PIAA Champion basketball squad and as a group Geibel Catholic High School's four (19931996) WPIAL Championship basketball teams.


2015 HOF Class

First Row L-R: Donald "Doc" Franks, Rudy Marisa, Tara Cochrane representing 1993-96 Geibel Girls Basketball, Tom Sankovich, Ken Misiak representing J.S. "Bus" Albright.

Second Row L-R: Tom Fee representing Robert Fee, Brian McLee representing 1981 Uniontown Boy's basketball, Sam Sims III representing Sam Sims, Tom Hull, Sam Mannery, Gene Huey.

Photo by Ken Brooks


1993-1996 Geibel Basketball WPIAL Champions

First Row L-R: Jen Surlas, Tara Cochrane, Coach George Bortz, Robin Guerriere, Meggan Seighman.

Second Row L-R: Michele Marian, Erica Hogan, Krista Usher, Cara Davis, Melissa Beucher

Photo by Ken Brooks

 

 


1981 Uniontown Basketball WPIAL and PIAA Champions

First Row L-R: Tony Carter, Craig Harris, Greg Gabriel, John Murtha.

Second Row L-R: Steve Nesser representing coach Lash Nesser, Brian McLee, Earl Minor, Kenner Holt.

Photo by Ken Brooks


Karly Judy of Geibel Catholic and Shane Roebuck of Brownsville, accept $1,000 scholarships from the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame during 2015 ceremony held at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

Photo by Bob Costello

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces Seventh Class


New Hall of Fame inductee Tom Hull addressing crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame announcement social on April 29

New Hall of Fame inductee Tom Sankovich addressing crowd at the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame announcement social on April 29

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its seventh class of inductees. The class consisting of nine individuals and three teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 20, 2015, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall will induct: Former North Union High School and Maryland football standout Tom Sankovich.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Uniontown High School and University of Wyoming football stalwart Gene Huey.

One player was selected for induction from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former Uniontown High School and Penn State star football player Tom Hull.

In the 1980 to 1994 era: Former German Township High School and California University of Pennsylvania football standout Sam Mannery was elected to the Class of 2015.

In the coaches category former Albert Gallatin High School grid boss Donald “Doc” Franks, and  Dunbar HS, Albert Gallatin HS and Waynesburg University basketball coaching legend Rudy Marisa were selected.

Two slots in the deceased category were filled by former German Township High School and University of Omaha basketball star Sam Sims and former Lafayette Junior High School basketball coach Robert Fee.

Former Uniontown Recreation Department Director and Uniontown School District teacher the late J.S. “Bus” Albright was a special recognition selection.

Three teams were selected in the 2015 class: Uniontown High School’s 1925 WPIAL and State Championship basketball team, Uniontown High School's 1981 WPIAL and PIAA Champion basketball squad and as a group Geibel Catholic High School's four (19931996) WPIAL Championship basketball teams.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 20 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.  Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2260. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 19 at the Pleasant Valley Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Inducts 2014 Class

A crowd of over 400 was on hand Saturday June 21 at Penn State Fayette the Eberly Campus for the 2014 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Induction banquet.

Seven individuals and two teams make up the sixth class for the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame. The individuals are Connellsville's Hank Oppermann, Albert Gallatin's Buddy Quertinmont, German Township's Ralph Still, Laurel Highlands' Greg Beckwith and Uniontown's Pope Gregory. Coaches Ken Misiak (Geibel boys basketball) and Bill Power (Uniontown football) also were inducted along with the 1962 Uniontown football team and the Frazier 1969 basketball team.

Next year's banquet is scheduled for Saturday June 20, 2015.


George Von Benko (L) and Chris Cluss (R) present Connellsville's Hank Oppermann with his 2014 Hall of Fame induction plaque.

2014 Inductee Buddy Quertinmont from Albert Gallatin addresses the banquet crowd.

Bonnie Gregory (Bennett Pope Gregory's widow) accepts 2014 Hall of Fame plaque from Chris Cluss.

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Athletes of the Year


The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame selected two athletes from Connellsville High School as male and female athletes of the year. Ashton Grimm (left) and Jade Maher (right). Both were awarded $1,000 scholarships.

 

2014 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Golf Outing

The 2014 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Golf outing at Uniontown Country Club on Friday June 20 was another rousing success with 96 golfers participating.


Showing teeing off is Robert Franks one of the members of the 1969 Frazier basketball team that was part of the 2014 Hall of Fame class.

Golfing at the 2014 Hall of Fame Golf outing L-R: Fayette County Sports Hall of Famers Rip Haley, Don Yates
and Gus Gerard.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announces 2014 Class


2014 Hall of Fame inductee Buddy Quertimont speaking at the May 8 Announcement Social.

2014 Hall of Fame inductee Ken Misiak speaking at the May 8 Announcement Social.

A crowd of 100 was on hand at the Ivory Ballroom in Uniontown on Thursday night May 8 as the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame announced its 2014 class of inductees.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its sixth class of inductees. The class consisting of seven individuals and two teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 21, 2014, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1959 era the Hall will induct: Former Connellsville High School and Penn State football standout Henry “Hank” Oppermann.

In the decade from 1960 to 1969 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Albert Gallatin High School and West Virginia University basketball stalwart Buddy Quertinmont.

One player was selected for induction from the 1970 to 1979 era: Former German Township High School and University of Pittsburgh star football player Ralph Still.

In the 1980 to 1994 era: Former Laurel Highlands High School an University of Richmond basketball standout Greg Beckwith was elected to the Class of 2014.

In the coaches category former Geibel High School basketball coaching legend Ken Misiak was selected.

Two slots in the deceased category were filled by former Uniontown High School, University of Nebraska and Buffalo Bills running back Bennett “Pope” Gregory and former Point Marion and Uniontown High School football coach Bill Power.

Two teams were selected in the 2014 class: Uniontown High School’s undefeated 1962 WPIAL champion football squad and Frazier High School's 1969 WPIAL champion and PIAA runner up basketball team.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning Katie Propes at (724) 415-2260. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 a.m. on June 20 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 

Mazurek Inducted Into Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame

Former Redstone High school and University of Pittsburgh star quarterback Fred Mazurek has been inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Mazurek who was inducted into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame in 2011 was part of the 2013 Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame Class that was inducted in Harrisburg PA on October 19.

Mazurek (L) is pictured with Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co-founder George Von Benko at the October 19th Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Weekend 2013

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet on June 22, 2013 was a huge success with a fifth consecutive sellout and over 500 people attending. The golf outing was also sellout on June 21 at Uniontown Country Club. Our second banquet after party was also very successful with over 150 people partying, some staying until closing time, catching up on old times with great friends. Please mark your calendars for next year's Hall of Fame weekend on June 20-21. Our board thanks you for your great support.

2013 Fayette Hall of Fame Class
2013 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Class: First Row: (L-R) Tony Tokish (Representing 1969 German Township football team ), Joe Simon (Representing George Dugan), Wil Robinson (Representing 1968 Laurel Highlands basketball team) and George Von Benko (Representing Ray Scott and 1943 Brownsville football team)

Second Row: (L-R) Allyn Curry (Representing Bill Munsey), Don Croftcheck, Chuck Correal, Barry Taylor (Representing his father Harold "Horse" Taylor, and Scott Clarke (Representing his father Harry Clarke).

Photo credit Ken Brooks

 

Chris Cluss
Former West Virginia University Athletic Director Ed Pastilong (L) accepts plaque honoring Harry Clarke from Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame chairman of the board Chris Cluss.

 

Donald Croftcheck
2013 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Don Croftcheck speaks to banquet crowd.

 

Harold Horse Taylor
Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co-founder George Von Benko (R) presents plaque to Barry Taylor representing his father Coach Harold "Horse" Taylor.

 

Fayette County Athletes
Fayette County Male and Female athletes of the year: Julie Friend and Joe Pegg.

 

Jes Hudson and Vivian Stringer
Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co-founder Jes Hutson presents Hall of Fame medal to returning 2010 Hall of Fame inductee Rutgers women's basketball coach C. Vivian Stringer.

 

Huey
Former Uniontown great Gene Huey putting at the 2013 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing.

Photo credits Bob Costello

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Inducts Fifth Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its fifth class of inductees. The class consisting of seven individuals and three teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 22, 2013 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1949 era the inductee is: Former Uniontown High, West Viginia University and Chicago Bears standout Harry “Flash” Clarke.
In the decade from 1950 to 1959 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Uniontown and University of Minnesota football star Bill Munsey, who also played for the CFL BC Lions.

From the era of 1960 to 1969 two individuals will be inducted: Former Redstone High School football standout Don Croftcheck who went on to play football at the University of Indiana and with the Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears. Also selected was former German Township High School State Champion and wrestling star George Dugan.

One player was selected for induction from the 1970 to 1991 era: Former Laurel Highlands and Penn State football standout Chuck Correal, who also played in the NFL.

In the coaches category former Laurel Highlands High School basketball coaching legend Harold “Horse” Taylor was selected.

The slot in the Special Recognition category is filled by former longtime announcing legend the late Ray Scott of Connellsville.

Three teams were selected in the 2013 class: Brownsville High School’s 1943 WPIAL Championship football squad, Laurel Highlands High School's 1968 WPIAL and PIAA Championship basketball team, and the German Township High School undefeated 1969 WPIAL Championship football squad.
The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 pm Saturday June 22, 2013 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning (724) 430-4100, ext. 4886. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 am on June 21 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 


Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces Fifth Class

Tokish

Tony Tokish speaks on behalf of 1969 German Township High School football team at recent Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Social.

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Announces Fifth Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce its fifth class of inductees. The class consisting of eight individuals and three teams will be inducted at a banquet on June 22, 2013 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

In the 1900 to 1949 era the inductee is: Former Uniontown High, West Viginia University and Chicago Bears standout Harry “Flash” Clarke.

In the decade from 1950 to 1959 the Hall of Fame selected: Former Uniontown and University of Minnesota football star Bill Munsey, who also played for the CFL BC Lions.

From the era of 1960 to 1969 two individuals will be inducted: Former Redstone High School football standout Don Croftcheck who went on to play football at the University of Indiana and with the Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears. Also selected was former German Township High School State Champion and wrestling star George Dugan.

One player was selected for induction from the 1970 to 1991 era: Former Laurel Highlands and Penn State football standout Chuck Correal, who also played in the NFL.

In the coaches category former Laurel Highlands High School basketball coaching legend Harold “Horse” Taylor was selected.

The slot in the Special Recognition category is filled by former longtime announcing legend the late Ray Scott of Connellsville.

Three teams were selected in the 2013 class: Brownsville High School’s 1943 WPIAL Championship football squad, Laurel Highlands High School's 1968 WPIAL and PIAA Championship basketball team, and the German Township High School undefeated 1969 WPIAL Championship football squad.

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet is slated for 5:30 pm Saturday June 22, 2013 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Tickets are now available on the website: www.fayettecountysportshalloffame.com or by phoning (724) 430-4100, ext. 4886. There will be a Hall of Fame Golf outing at 9 am on June 21 at the Uniontown Country Club.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

 

 

Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame
Inducts Fourth Class

The Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame banquet was a huge success with a fourth consecutive sellout and over 600 people.  The golf outing was also sellout. Our first banquet after party was also very successful with over 100 people passing through, with some staying until close, catching up on old times with great friends. Please mark your calendars for next year's Hall of Fame weekend on June 21-22. Our board thanks you for your great support.

For more information please contact George Von Benko at (724) 626-1433.

2012 FHOF Class
2012 Hall of Fame Inductees: First Row (Left to Right): Mike Mullin (Representing his father Pat Mullin), John "wally" Schroyer, Dr. Larry Vignali, Pam Braxton (representing her husband Jim Braxton), Walter Haynes (Representing Chuck Muncie).

Second Row (Left to Right): Tom Dolde, Gene Steratore, Pete Stefancin (Representing 1961 South Union track team), Martin Griglak (Representing 1938-44; 1946 Connellsville Swimming Teams) and Ray Parson (Representing 1964 Uniontown basketball team).

Larry Vignali
2012 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Dr. Larry Vignali addresses the crowd at June 23 2012 banquet.

Jes Hudson
Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Co-Founder and Executive Chairman Jes Hutson with Brownsville Scholar Athlete and WPIAL tennis champion Sarah Shashura

Braxton
Jim Braxton's widow Pam is presented 2012 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame plaque by Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Ben Vice-Chairman Ben Wright.

Golf Outing
The team of Dick Hughes, Don Woodward, Gene Kuhla and Mike Kazmier at the 2012 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame golf outing.

Don Yates
2011 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Don Yates, tees off in the 2012 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame Golf outing.

Announcement Social
Left to Right: Martin Griglak (representing 1938-44; 1946 Connellsville Swimming Teams), Tom Dolde (2012 inductee) and John "Wally" Schroyer (2012 inductee).

Announcement Social
Left to Right: Dr. Larry Vignali (2012 inductee), Nate Turner (representing Jim Braxton), Mike Mullin (representing Pat Mullin), Gene Steratore (2012 inductee) and Chris Cluss (Chairman of the Board of Directors Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame).

 

To view photos from the 2011 Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame click here.

 
     
  Stephens Inducted Into
PA Sports HOF
 
 
Sandy Stephens' sister Barbara Stephens Foster and Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame co-founder and executive co-chairman George Von Benko at the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame banquet in Danville, PA on October 16, 2010.

The Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame held its 48th Annual Induction Ceremonial and Dinner on October 16, 2010 at the Days Inn & Conference Center, Danville, PA.

This year's event was hosted by the Northern Region and honored an outstanding group of 11 inductees, including former Uniontown and University of Minnesota legend Sandy Stephens.

Stephens was the starting quarterback on Uniontown's undefeated 1957 team. He was an All-State selection and scored the winning TD in first Big 33 Game. Stephens was the first African-American to play QB at the University of Minnesota, only QB to take Gophers to Rose Bowl (1960 and 1961) and led the Gophers to the National Championship. He became the first African-American All-American QB, was fourth in Heisman Trophy Balloting in 1961 and MVP of the Big 10 Conference. Stephens was drafted by Cleveland NFL, New York AFL, played in CFL. He was inducted into the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame and Awarded NCAA Legends Status. He was also inducted into the western Pennsylvania Hall of Fame and is a member of the University of Minnesota Hall of Fame.

Stephens who passed away on June 6, 2000 was enshrined in the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame's prestigious first class in July of 2009 and was nominated for the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame by the Fayette County chapter.

Barbara Stephens Foster, Stephens' sister, represented the family in Danville at the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame ceremony.



 
 

 

 
     
     
     
     
 

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