Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame - Statement on John Chaney

John Chaney, head coach of Temple University mens basketball team and member of the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame 2004 Inductee class, has recently been the subject of intense media attention as a result of incidents that occurred in a game versus St. Josephs University. As an independent organization, the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame, as a policy, does not comment on controversial issues regarding its inductees. However, due to several recent inquiries to the Hall, we feel it necessary to issue the following statement:

The Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame is a non-profit, non-partisan organization, dedicated to honoring individuals, events, teams, organizations and venues prominent in the history of athletics in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Therefore, we do not take positions on issues such as the unfortunate Chaney-St. Joes incident or the NHL lockout. The decision to induct Chaney, as well as the other members of his class, was made last year in the early fall and was based on his legendary status and success as a coach, philanthropist, and outstanding member of the Philadelphia community and will not be altered.

The decision to induct John Chaney into the Hall was made last fall through our elective process, based upon the input and voting of board members, advisors and supporters,” said Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame spokesperson, Scott Hynd. The recent events have no bearing on Coach Chaneys induction. Despite this regrettable incident, the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame will continue to honor John Chaney and is proud to have him as a member of our second class of inductees.”

Chaney, along with the other 18 members of his inductee class, will be honored at the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fames 2nd Annual Induction Ceremony, to be held on April 8, 2005 at the Sheraton Society Hill.