Florida Sports Hall of Fame facts for kids
The Florida Sports Hall of Fame (FSHOF) is a special place that celebrates amazing athletes, coaches, and others who have done great things in sports across Florida. It also wants to inspire everyone in Florida to be active and healthy, just like the sports heroes it honors.
History of the Hall of Fame
The Florida Sports Hall of Fame was started in 1958 by sports writers and sportscasters in Florida. It first opened its doors in 1977 at Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven.
However, it closed in 1985 and later moved to Lake City, Florida in 1990. Not enough people visited the Hall of Fame there. In 2002, the state stopped its funding, and the Hall faced financial difficulties. Its displays and sports items had to be put into storage.
The leaders of the Hall of Fame looked for a new home. They thought about St. Petersburg, but it didn't work out. Finally, the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale, Florida offered a place. The Hall of Fame reopened there on June 22, 2010. On that day, four new members joined: Catie Ball-Condon, Jack Hairston, Pat Borders, and Hubert Green.
Honoring Sports Heroes
The Florida Sports Hall of Fame honors people who have made a big impact on sports in Florida. These include athletes, coaches, and other important figures. They are chosen because of their amazing achievements and contributions.
Some of the famous people honored in the Hall of Fame include:
- Michelle Akers, a soccer star.
- Bobby Allison, a racing legend.
- Patty Berg, a golf pioneer.
- Bobby Bowden, a famous football coach.
- Chris Evert, a tennis champion.
- Don Garlits, a drag racing icon.
- Bob Griese, a legendary football quarterback.
- Hulk Hogan, a wrestling superstar.
- Dan Marino, another famous football quarterback.
- Jack Nicklaus, one of the greatest golfers ever.
- Arnold Palmer, a golf legend.
- Deion Sanders, a multi-sport athlete.
- Don Shula, a highly successful football coach.
- Emmitt Smith, a record-breaking football player.
- Steve Spurrier, a football player and coach.
- Tim Tebow, a college football hero.
- Dara Torres, an Olympic swimmer.
- Dick Vitale, a well-known basketball announcer.
- Charlie Ward, a Heisman Trophy winner in football.
- Ted Williams, a baseball Hall of Famer.
- Babe Zaharias, an amazing all-around female athlete.
These are just a few examples of the many talented individuals recognized by the Florida Sports Hall of Fame. Each person has a unique story of dedication and success in their sport.
