The 50th Chico Sports Hall of Fame and Senior Athletes Banquet celebrated local athletic achievements, honoring four new inductees and recognizing 88 athletes. Pleasant Valley’s AJ Gambol was named Chico Sportsperson of the Year after becoming the all-time leading scorer in her school’s girls basketball history. The event emphasized community spirit, with a record attendance of 424 people including athletes from various local schools. Inductees included Olympic athlete Jack Yerman and NFL legend Larry Allen, reflecting the impressive history and impact of the Hall of Fame.

By the Numbers
  • 424 attendees at the banquet.
  • 4 new inductees into the Hall of Fame, bringing total members to 165 since 1973.
State of Play
  • The banquet marked its 50th anniversary, showcasing the evolution of local sports in Chico.
  • Community involvement spanned high schools from Chico, Pleasant Valley, and surrounding areas, promoting unity.
  • This year's event followed a pandemic hiatus for the banquet in 2020-2022.
What's Next

Future celebrations of the Chico Sports Hall of Fame may focus on increasing inclusivity and expanding recognition for diverse athletic achievements across the region. This could involve more local schools and younger athletes being spotlighted in upcoming events.

Bottom Line

The 50th Chico Sports Hall of Fame banquet highlighted not just athletic excellence but also community and shared values. The spirit of gratitude and mutual respect among attendees underscores the long-term benefits of recognizing local talent and fostering a united sports culture.