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Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame inducts six new members

Posted at 12:00 AM, Oct 25, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-25 00:00:26-04

NORFOLK, Va. - The Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame - it's not just about whether you're from here, it's about what you've done here.

Monday, the Tidewater region celebrated the class of 2016: a group that features athletes, coaches and contributors either from the area or who made a noteworthy impact in Hampton Roads.

"It's overwhelming that they've chosen me to be in this circle, which is a great circle from over the course of time," said former hockey standout Rod Taylor. "It's unbelievable."

Chesapeake native Michael Cuddyer among six member class of 2016.

Chesapeake native Michael Cuddyer among six member class of 2016.

"To be recognized by this area for what I did on the field and off the field - it's a huge honor," said 15 year Major League Baseball veteran Michael Cuddyer.

Cuddyer, a Chesapeake native, joins former Hampton Roads Admirals star Rod Taylor in the six member class of 2016. Also being inducted, former Old Dominion women's basketball All-American Ticha Penicheiro, Olympic wrestler Gray Simons, William & Mary Hall of Famer Joe Agee and Norfolk politician Paul Fraim.

For Cuddyer and Taylor - they made their names in Hampton Roads and still make their home in the region. Now, they'll do so as Hall of Famers.

"This is home," Cuddyer, a two-time MLB All-Star explained. "My wife is transplanted from northern Virginia. It's who I am, where I'm from and where I'll be."

"I've always said I wanted to go back and live in Michigan where I'm from," Taylor explained. "But I love the people that are here and that is one reason I decided to stay here - because the people are so great and the fans are awesome."

The Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame was conceived as a way to honor outstanding athletes, coaches, administrators and media members who came from Hampton Roads or who made noteworthy contributions to sports in the Hampton Roads area. Inductees are chosen by a committee comprised of local media, coaches and sports enthusiasts, along with input from fans. The Hall of Fame is proudly sponsored by Navy Mutual and Max Media.