Hampton Roads is celebrating a significant moment in its sports history with the upcoming induction of Juanita Etheridge, G. Robert Aston Jr., and Harry Minium into the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame. This event underscores the region’s rich athletic heritage and acknowledges individuals who have made exceptional contributions, both on and off the field.
The Inductees
Juanita Etheridge:
A standout multi-sport athlete, Etheridge’s journey began at First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach, where she showcased her prowess in basketball, field hockey, and track. Although she initially attended James Madison University (JMU), it was at Old Dominion University (ODU) that she truly left her mark. Leading the Monarchs basketball team in scoring during the 1974-75 season, she averaged an impressive 19.8 points per game. Etheridge’s athletic accomplishments extended beyond basketball; she was also a dedicated tennis player and a dominant long-distance runner with numerous accolades to her name, including a record-setting performance in her first Shamrock Marathon.However, her contributions transcend athletics. Over a lengthy career as an educator and coach at Granby High School, Etheridge positively impacted countless students. She implemented programs to encourage community involvement, like a double-dutch jump roping competition and a youth golf initiative. Her legacy is not just rooted in her athleticism but also in her commitment to fostering community spirit and youth engagement.
G. Robert Aston Jr.:
Known as "Bob Aston," he is a well-respected businessman and philanthropist within the Hampton Roads community. As one of the founders of TowneBank, Aston played a pivotal role in the bank’s growth, making it a major philanthropic force in Virginia. His generous support of ODU athletics has helped foster an environment where sports can thrive.Aston’s contributions to local sports extend beyond simple financial support. He has served on various boards, including the Old Dominion Athletic Foundation, and he has been a mentor to many young athletes. His recognition as a "Distinguished Virginian" in 2011 exemplifies his dedication to fostering athletic growth at all levels. Aston’s humility and unwavering support for local sports entities underline his vital role in making Hampton Roads a hub for athletic talent.
Harry Minium:
A Norfolk native, Minium has deep ties with ODU, having been associated with the university for over 50 years. An accomplished athlete in his own right, he was a second-team All-Eastern Region football linebacker at Norview High School. His career as a journalist has spanned nearly four decades, and he currently serves as the senior executive writer for athletics at ODU, covering all 18 of the university’s sports teams.Minium’s reputation as a respected sportswriter is bolstered by over 30 awards recognizing his writing excellence. His long-standing relationship with ODU, chronicling its football program for 14 consecutive seasons, demonstrates a commitment to telling stories that matter and fostering a connection between fans and the institution. His contributions to local journalism and sports make him a deserving candidate for this prestigious honor.
Event Details
The induction ceremony, set to take place on November 19, at 6 p.m. in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena, will celebrate these three individuals along with three others: Brandon Adair, Pat Cavanaugh, and the late Charles Christian. This year’s class reflects a variety of sports backgrounds and contributions to the athletic community in the Hampton Roads area.
Tickets for the event are available for $65 each or a table of eight for $450, providing an opportunity for supporters to come together in recognition of these outstanding individuals.
Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame Legacy
Founded in 2008, the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame has honored numerous athletes, coaches, and contributors to the area’s sports culture. Inductees are commemorated with plaques installed at Harbor Park, home of the Norfolk Tides, ensuring their legacies will be remembered for generations to come. The Hall recognizes the diverse sporting talent in the region, reinforcing Hampton Roads as a significant player in the national sports landscape.
Past inductees include remarkable figures associated with ODU, emphasizing the university’s integral role in cultivating athletic talent and community spirit within Hampton Roads. The Hall of Fame operates not only as a tribute to individual achievements but also as a unifying force celebrating the shared passion for sports across the region.
Conclusion
The induction of Juanita Etheridge, G. Robert Aston Jr., and Harry Minium into the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of sports in building community. Their stories serve as inspiration for aspiring athletes, educators, and philanthropists alike, demonstrating how dedication and service can enrich lives and unite communities.
As the ceremony approaches, anticipation builds, not just for the recognition of these individuals but for the ongoing legacy they represent. It is a celebration of history, accomplishments, and the spirit of sportsmanship that defines the Hampton Roads area. The Hall of Fame continues to be a beacon of local pride and a testament to the power of sports to transform lives and communities.
