About the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame
Preserving the Legacy of South Dakota Sports Since 1968
The South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, documenting and celebrating the rich history of athletics across South Dakota. Since its founding in 1968 by the South Dakota Sportswriters Association, the Hall of Fame has honored athletes, coaches and contributors whose achievements helped shape sports throughout the state.
Today, the Hall of Fame enshrines individuals representing more than 30 sports and serves as a lasting tribute to the people, programs and communities that define South Dakota athletics.
What began as a grassroots effort without a permanent home has evolved into a statewide organization managed by dedicated volunteers from across South Dakota. Early induction ceremonies were held during state boys basketball tournaments and rotated between venues to reach fans throughout the state.
The Hall of Fame now hosts an annual induction banquet at the Sioux Falls Convention Center attended by hundreds of athletes, families and supporters each year, while also maintaining a public Hall of Fame display inside the Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls.
Through inductee recognition, historical preservation and public engagement, the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame continues to honor the people whose dedication and achievements shaped sports across generations.
Hall of Fame Leadership
The South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame is guided by a statewide group of volunteers dedicated to preserving and celebrating South Dakota sports history through leadership, service and community involvement.
Officers
- Ron Riherd — President
- Sam Holderby — Vice President
- John McGrath — Treasurer
- Wayne Carney — Past President
Association Members
The Hall of Fame’s volunteer association members represent communities, schools, media organizations and athletic programs from across South Dakota, helping preserve the stories and accomplishments that define the state’s athletic legacy.
Jason Andera
Jo Auch
Shelly Buddenhagen
Wayne Carney
Ryan Deal
David Dolan
Scott Fiedler
Mick Garry
Alex Heinert
Mike Henriksen
Sam Holderby
Gayle Hoover
Stacy Jones
Sheri Keck
Jeffrey LeMair
John McGrath
Mark Meile
Tyler Merriam
Terry Nielsen
John Papendick
Ron Riherd
Dan Sabers
Holly Sivesind
Tim Smith
Ann Traphagen
Dani Walking Eagle
Jim Wilber
Bob Winter
Marcia Zephier
