ROANOKE, Va. – The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame announced its 2023 class of Hall of Fame inductees and it includes a star studded group of athletes and coaches that helped change athletics in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Chesapeake native DeAngelo Hall was announced as part of the 2023 class. The former Virginia Tech football standout was a first-team All-American defensive back and spent 14 seasons in the NFL, where he became a three-time Pro-Bowl selection.
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Jimmye Laycock paced the sidelines at William & Mary for 39 years as head coach of The Tribe. He amassed 249 wins, 7 conference titles and 10 NCAA FCS playoff appearances.
Hampton native Francena McCorory was a star at Bethel High school and Hampton University before winning 2 Olympic gold medals in the 4x400 meter relay.
Martinsville native Shawn Moore is also part of the 2023 class. He was the 1990 ACC Player of the Year who had a record-setting career for the University of Virginia. His 83 touchdowns still remain a school record today.
Columnist Jerry Ratcliffe has been a fixture when it comes to Commonwealth athletics. He’s a 4 time Virginia Sportswriter of the Year recipient who continues to cover all things relating to the University of Virginia athletics.
Virginia Beach native and University of Virginia alum Ryan Zimmerman also received the call. The 2019 World Series champion of the Washington Nationals was known as “Mr. National”, being the organization’s first-ever draft pick. He spent sixteen years in the MLB, earning two All-Star appearances.
Sheila Trice-Myers, a dominant track star for Christopher-Newport University, will be in this year’s class as well. She finished her career with 32 All-American honors and 15 national championships.
Last but certainly not least, a familiar name to southwest Virginia got the call to be part of the 2023 class also. Bob Rotanz was a three-time All-American for Roanoke College lacrosse during his career. Rotanz earned National Player of the Year in 1978 and lead the Maroons to an NCAA title. These days, Rotanz is also known for “Mac & Bobs” popular restaurant in downtown Salem. Rotanz also continues to give back to his community and alma mater as well.
Lynchburg’s Joe Montgomery earned the honors of this year’s Distinguished Virginian Award. He was a standout center for William & Mary in the 1970s.