For the 5th straight year, fans and athletes gathered together to witness another exciting edition of the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.  In front of a packed house at Thunder Valley Casino Resort the evening featured a sterling presentation of the Class of 2017 with homegrown superstars: Dan Bunz, Stacy Dragila, Derrek Lee, Buck Martinez and Ken O'Brien being honored.  With the return of past inductees Dusty Baker, Loreto Garza, LeRon Lee, Tony “The Tiger” Lopez, Jerry Manuel, James Owens and Danielle Viglione along with numerous other Hall of Fame nominees it was another great night of fun and tribute for athletes and fans alike.

 

Once again, the night featured the inclusion of a Special Olympics athlete.  This year’s recipient was Patrick underly whose story of tremendous accomplishments which include over 275 medals during his 26 years with Special Olympics.  Patrick was surrounded by his incredible friends and family, all their to support amazing night.  

 

The night was filled with emotion as we shared our passion for our outstanding charitible partner, Special Olympics Northern California. Guests we all moved by the success stories of this amazing orgainzation, while this year's nominees were present for their introductions.  

 

Fans were treated to the comedy of Dennis Gaxiola who roasted the inductees with his comedic flair and had the audience and the inductees laughing.  Those in attendance got an up close and personal look at each athlete’s family history and got the behind the scenes feel of their storied careers. The true character of our athletes showed as they were so appreciative of the recognition and support that was given by all their fans.  The raw emotions were on display as fans were able to see a side of these iconic stars that is not always revealed. 

 

It was another successful celebration that saw five more homegrown genuine people join the ranks as Sacramento’s greatest athletes; bringing a total of 25 into our fraternity of the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame.  Thanks to everyone who worked so hard on this amazing evening: our staff, Thunder Valley Casino Resort, our inductees, their families and the fans for their continued support. 

 

Click here  for event photos.

 

Click here to see the list of inductees and their videos.

 

If you have any photos or videos you'd like to share, please contact us.  We'd love to post them on our website!