Residents Called to Nominate at www.YonkersNY.gov
Yonkers, NY – May 5, 2026– Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers and the Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation, is calling for nominations to the Yonkers Sports Hall of Fame. The Sports Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding professionals and amateurs in the field of sports, living or deceased, who have gained prominence or made substantial contributions to sports in the City of Yonkers.
Established in 1966, the Yonkers Sports Hall of Fame was formed to honor residents for their playing ability, integrity, character, sportsmanship and advocacy of sports. They must have brought honor, fame and prestige not only to themselves, but also to the City of Yonkers. Their actions must have inspired young people to participate and their example must have encouraged others to promote and initiate community sports and recreation programs. The names of those selected will be honored at an awards ceremony, and forever enshrined upon the plaques that are displayed at the Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation & Conservation, located at 285 Nepperhan Avenue in Yonkers.
“The Sports Hall of Fame stands as a powerful tribute to the generations of Yonkers residents—past and present—whose extraordinary achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of athletics,” said Mayor Spano. “As our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the pursuit of excellence has always been woven into the American story—and our athletes embody that spirit with pride. From neighborhood fields to national arenas, they have carried Yonkers’ resilience, determination, and heart with them. As we honor this year’s inductees, we celebrate not only their individual triumphs but also a legacy that strengthens our community and motivates future generations to represent Yonkers with distinction.”
Some of the Sports Hall of Fame members include:
- Championship Kayaker Nancy Kalafus
- Track & Field Coach Dr. Richard A. Hill
- Olympic Swimmer Lea Loveless
- Boxer Roger Donahue
Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals they feel are worthy of the Hall of Fame at www.YonkersNY.gov/SportsHallofFame.Sufficient information including photos, newspaper clippings, etc. is necessary to be submitted.To be eligible for nomination to the Yonkers Sports Hall of Fame, an individual must meet the following criteria of eligibility:
- Attain local, state and national recognition and prominence in either professional or amateur sports as a player, coach, manager, official, owner, writer, broadcaster or any special category as established by the Committee.
- Candidate must be a retired participant of the sport for a period of five years or have passed his/her 55th birthday.
- Must have resided in Yonkers for a minimum of 15 years.
Deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, May 22, 2026.
