Melvin Blassingham
Known as the “Father of the Oyster Bowl”, Blassingham conceived the idea of the game to raise funds for the Shriner’s Hospital while in the hospital himself, recovering from a heart attack in 1936. The Oyster Bowl began to truly…
Marty Brennaman
One of the best known figures in the sports broadcasting industry, Marty Brennaman has been the lead broadcaster for the Cincinnati Reds since 1974. In addition, Brennaman has broadcast the NCAA basketball tournament for CBS Radio for more than 10…
Roger Brown
Roger Brown was born in Surry County and grew up in Newport News, Virginia. He attended Maryland State (now University of Maryland, Eastern Shore) where he earned N.A.I.A. All-American honors while being selected by the NFL Detroit Lions. Brown was…
Alfred Casey
Al Casey, born in Portsmouth, Virginia, was confined to a wheel chair and unable to speak clearly when he learned of his induction to the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. He promised to be present at the Hall of Fame…
Nellie Catlett
Nellie Catlett was born in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a resident for 58 years attending Hampton High School, where he was named All-State and All-Southern in football, was above average in basketball and was the high point man in track,…
Robert Woods Spessard
Robert Woods Spessard was born in Roanoke, Virginia on December 11, 1915. He attended Jefferson High School where he starred in football, basketball, and track. His team won the state basketball Class A Championship in 1934. Spessard entered Washington &…
Clarence “Ace” Parker
Clarence “Ace” Parker was truly one of the gridiron greats of all time. He played offense and defense when specialists were unheard of. Parker played for Duke University from 1932-36, quarterbacking the team to three successful seasons. He proved to…
Dr. Robert Johnson
Dr. Robert Johnson was known as “Whirlwind” because of his football prowess. He won over fifty trophies in tennis, playing doubles and mixed doubles, including six National Championships. This man was none-the-less almost better known for his contributions in the…