VIA Heritage Association (VIAHA) Hall of Fame FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2016 Contacts: Jimmy Hollins, Chairman, VIAHA Bernard R. Anderson, HOF Committee Member 434-825-6117/
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[email protected] 2016 Inaugural VIAHA Hall of Fame Class Chosen Inaugural class features 28 inductees CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA — Twenty-seven individuals and who have made outstanding contributions to high school athletics and other activities have been selected to the 2016 inaugural class of the Virginia Interscholastic Association Heritage Association Hall of Fame (VIAHA). The class features 11 athletes, 10 coaches, six contributors and one selection of special recognition. The inaugural Hall of Fame induction dinner will be held on Monday, June 20, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Charlottesville. The Hall is dedicated to preserving the rich heritage and legacy of African-American students and adults who participated in the Virginia Interscholastic Association from 1954-70 and its predecessor organization the Virginia Interscholastic Athletic League (VIAL). Some notable inaugural inductees include pro football hall of famer Roosevelt Brown; Walter Bowser; basketball great Earl Lloyd; coaches Thad Madden, Stretch Gardner, Bill Lawson, Jr., and George Lancaster; and a special recognition to the Armstrong-Walker Football Classic. Prior to school desegregation, one of the most influential organizations in the state of Virginia was the Virginia Interscholastic Association (VIA), which served young African-American students who attended segregated high schools in the state. The impact that this association had on shaping the lives of these students went far beyond governing athletic events, it brought together students, parents, and mentors to develop within students a strong foundation of character and ethical responsibilities that advanced these men and women into successful citizens and leaders.