The 55th Annual Lorain Sports Hall of Fame Enshrinement Banquet took place on May 10, 2025, at German’s Villa in Vermilion. A sold-out crowd gathered to honor athletes, coaches, contributors, and one legendary team whose dedication and achievements helped shape Lorain’s proud sports identity.
Founded in 1969, the Lorain Sports Hall of Fame exists to preserve and promote the city’s rich athletic history. It stands as a tribute not only to individual accomplishments, but to the values of teamwork, mentorship, and community impact. The Hall’s 2025 class exemplifies those ideals, with inductees spanning multiple generations, sports, and contributions both on and off the field.
The evening was emceed by Jay Ferguson, who filled in for Tim Alcorn and guided the program with humor and heart. Family tributes, emotional speeches, and video highlights accompanied each induction, reminding attendees that behind every trophy is a story of perseverance, influence, and pride in one’s hometown.
🏆 Elizabeth “Nanny” Parobek – Distinguished Service Award (Posthumous)
Accomplishments: Lifelong supporter of Lorain youth sports; team driver, scorekeeper, and mentor. Famously chauffeured dozens of athletes in her “Nanny Mobile” and kept score at countless events, including church league games.
What others said: Her grandson, Drew Parobek, described her as a beloved figure who helped raise a generation of athletes, many of whom were in attendance and credited her with shaping their journeys.
What she represented: Drew reflected on her kindness, reliability, and unwavering support. “She taught us lessons for a lifetime,” he said.
🥎 Amanda Berry – Multi-Sport Athlete & K-9 Deputy
Accomplishments: Earned 12 varsity letters at Lorain Catholic. Four-year softball standout at Youngstown State University. Set school records in hits, doubles, triples, and RBIs. Named Horizon League MVP and YSU Female Athlete of the Year.
What others said: Her coaches praised her dominance on the field, while Lorain County Sheriff Jack Hall presented a custom K-9 baseball card commemorating her continued service as a sheriff’s deputy.
What she said: Berry thanked her parents, coaches, teammates, and her husband. She spoke about the friendships made through sports and how those lessons continue to guide her work in law enforcement.
🎳 Joe Dominguez – Bowler & Clearview Coach
Accomplishments: 24 perfect games, 16 800-series scores, 200+ lifetime average. Coached Clearview High School’s boys bowling team to multiple conference titles and state qualifications.
What others said: Dominguez was recognized for his mentorship, his dedication to youth bowlers, and for helping grow the sport in Lorain.
What he said: As an 11-year cancer survivor, he spoke emotionally about gratitude, faith, and family—thanking those who traveled from across the country to celebrate with him.
🧬 Dr. Jeff Golini – Bodybuilder, Nutritionist, Entrepreneur
Accomplishments: Former Clearview High athlete. Became a pro bodybuilder, later founding All-American Pharmaceutical and EFX Sports. Holds four patents in sports nutrition and hosts national radio shows.
What others said: Family and friends sent tribute videos, celebrating his journey from Lorain to international acclaim in sports science.
What he said (via video): Golini said the Hall of Fame was his greatest honor. He credited his Clearview coaches with instilling discipline and thanked Lorain for being the foundation of his success.
🏀 Christine “Chris” Saladin – Multi-Sport Athlete & Therapist
Accomplishments: Lorain High record-holder in basketball with 1,617 points. Earned 12 varsity letters. Played college basketball at the University of Charleston, joining its 1,000-point club.
What others said: Sister Beth recalled her obsessive dedication to practice. Coach Ferguson highlighted her leadership on and off the court.
What she said: Saladin spoke candidly about the importance of inclusion and belonging. Now a mental health therapist, she reflected on how sports taught her resilience and empathy.
⚾ Tony Flores – Baseball Executive & Mentor
Accomplishments: Lorain High baseball and football standout. Spent 13 years as a pro baseball executive, including as GM and Spring Training Director for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Later ran youth baseball training in New Jersey.
What others said: Flores’s tribute included light-hearted videos and heartfelt messages from family, recognizing his guidance and humor.
What he said: He spoke about starting his career in Lorain and the pride of giving back through coaching and mentorship.
🏀 Michael Gallagher – Girls Basketball Coach
Accomplishments: 416–130 career record. Led Worcester High School to 12 conference titles and two Final Four appearances. Inducted into four Halls of Fame.
What others said: Former players praised his consistent leadership and commitment to building winning teams while mentoring young athletes.
What he said: Gallagher thanked his coaching peers and players for believing in his system and helping him build a lasting legacy.
🏐 Kathy McConnell – Volleyball Coach
Accomplishments: Star athlete at Lorain Catholic. Coached varsity volleyball from 1991–2004 with a 225–88 record. Led her team to a state runner-up finish in 1994.
What others said: McConnell was described as a mentor who helped elevate the profile of girls volleyball in Lorain County.
What she said: She thanked her athletes and coaching staff, emphasizing that her success came from a deep sense of team unity.
👟 1973 Clearview High School Boys Track Team – State Champions
Accomplishments: Won state, regional, district, and conference championships. Team members set records in multiple events. Included prior inductees Otis Jenkins, Larry Forner, and Larry Harris.
What others said: The team was praised for setting a standard of excellence. Coaches Mr. Ross and Mr. Walsh were remembered for their role in the team’s historic success.
What they said: Representing the team, Rev. Otis Jenkins delivered a spirited reflection on their journey, emphasizing discipline, unity, and faith. He closed the night with a prayer.
Closing Reflection
The 2025 Lorain Sports Hall of Fame Banquet was more than a celebration of athletic success—it was a reminder of the deep roots sports have in shaping lives, building character, and strengthening the bonds of community. As the Hall marks its 55th year, it continues to ensure that Lorain’s greatest stories are never forgotten.