United Way for Southeastern Michigan

Since working as a volunteer for Super Bowl XL, I periodically have had opportunities to volunteer for other events in the Detroit area. I recently had the wonderful opportunity to work as a volunteer for the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame (MSHOF) for their recent annual induction ceremony. The MSHOF has been honoring former professional and amateur athletes, coaches and members of the media since 1954.

This year’s inductees included Steve Yzerman from the Detroit Red Wings, Desmond Howard and Glen Rice from the University of Michigan, Ray Scott, a former player and coach of the Detroit Pistons and broadcaster Frank Beckman from WJR radio.

One of the best highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the MSHOF’s Tony Filippis Courage award to Cheryl Angelelli. She is paralyzed from the chest down as the result of a diving accident during swimming practice when she was fourteen. Now competing as a Paralympic swimmer, she is a double world gold medalist and is preparing to compete in the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, China.

The MSHOF is presently looking for a permanent home in the Detroit area to be able to display permanent exhibits honoring athletic achievements of professional and amateur athletics at all levels in Michigan. Plaques honoring those who have been inducted are currently being displayed on walls in Cobo Cener.