Hall of Fame Inductions

Posted by John P. Vespa

It is always great to go back to Peoria High. Last Saturday, we inducted several individual athletes and teams into our Athletic Hall Of Fame, with a ceremony in the foyer. Being on the Board Of Directors' Athletic Hall Of Fame Committee, I played a direct role in selecting and recognizing these athletes' achievements. I was thrilled to have this opportunity. I remember the excitement I experienced when my class of 1974/75 football team was enshrined in Peoria High's Athletic Hall Of Fame back in 2004.

After the ceremony, I was able to meet with several old friends. It's impossible to name them all, but among them were Cortez Blake, Tommy Sturdivant, John Fetcho, Tim Richards, Mr. Genge, Mr. LaCroix, Jerry Davidson, Dave Ayoub, Kirk Wessler, Mr. Robertson, Bill Robertson, Alicia Butler, Coach Salzer, and Tom Hoskins.

In this photo from L to R - Bill Robertson, Corky Robertson,
John Vespa, Jim Vespa

It was especially thrilling to have my son there with me. Jim is 8 years old and was able to meet some of Dad's old football and high school buddies. He had also never been inside Central. So, he received a tour of the foyer, which included the trophy case and various plaques dedicated to the Athletic Hall Of Fame recipients.

I enjoy seeing kids involved in sports. It helps them learn teamwork, and that some things can only be accomplished through cooperation with others. I also want them to learn the thrill of victory and how to accept defeat. When they compare the difference in outcomes, it will help motivate them to make the right decisions.