Philly Sports Hall to Induct 19

The charter class of the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame includes19 figures who have helped make sports memorable in this city.

The Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame Foundation's inaugural class of Paul Arizin, Richie Ashburn, Chuck Bednarik, Bert Bell, Wilt Chamberlain, Steve Carlton, Bobby Clarke, Billy Cunningham, Julius Erving, Jimmie Foxx, Joe Frazier, Tom Gola, Jack Kelly Sr., Connie Mack, Bernie Parent, Robin Roberts, Mike Schmidt, Bill Tilden, and Steve Van Buren was announced Sunday.

Harry Kalas was named the inaugural Legacy of Excellence honoree, and Sonny Hill won the first Lifetime Commitment Award.

A ceremony and banquet will be scheduled in February.

The Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame Foundation is a registered non-profit organization with 501 (c) (3) status with the Internal Revenue Service.  Formed in 2002, it is a member of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Pennsylvania Association of Non-Profit Organizations, the Maxwell Club, the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums, and the International Association of Sports Museums and Halls of Fame.  More information about the Foundation can be found at www.phillyhof.org