2025 Inductees & Award Winners
Valerie Johnson
A dynamic talent and fierce competitor, Valerie Johnson left a lasting imprint on Colorado basketball through her standout play at both the high school and collegiate levels. She had one of the most impactful basketball careers to come out of the Pikes Peak region. A standout player at Doherty High School, Johnson helped lead the Spartans to three state championship game appearances ending in 1994, earning a reputation for her leadership, toughness, and ability to elevate everyone around her. Her remarkable high school career earned her a place on the Gazette Coaches' First Team All-Time, a recognition reserved for the most elite talent the area has ever produced. Johnson's dominance on the court made her one of the top recruits in the state, and she continued her basketball journey at the University of Colorado, where she joined the Buffaloes' women's basketball program with high expectations. Unfortunately, Johnson’s promising college career was cut short by a severe knee injury. While her time on the court ended earlier than anyone anticipated, her legacy endured — not only through her high school accomplishments but also in the way she inspired teammates and coaches with her resilience and work ethic. Val Johnson’s induction into the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame celebrates a career defined not just by stats or titles, but by the heart and determination that left a lasting mark on Colorado basketball.
Ralph Bruning
A true icon of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Ralph Bruning carved his name into racing history with a career defined by endurance, skill, and a relentless drive to compete at the highest level. He had a legendary career on Pikes Peak that spanned more than three decades. Bruning first raced “America’s Mountain” in 1966, and by the time his career concluded in 1998, he had competed 30 times over 27 years — an extraordinary feat of endurance, skill, and passion. Known for his versatility, Bruning competed in multiple divisions, including Open Wheel, Rally, and most famously, Stock Car. From 1971 onward, he became a dominant force in the Stock Car division, amassing 8 wins, 4 runner-up finishes, and 5 third-place showings — an incredible 17 podium finishes overall. In 1982, behind the wheel of his 1980 Chevrolet Monza 331, he set a Stock Car division record of 12:50.28. His personal best came in 1997, clocking 12:12.22 during the 75th Running of the Hill Climb. Even after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which he eventually succumbed to in 2000, Bruning returned to race in 1997 and 1998, earning two more podiums in the Super Stock Car division. His unwavering love for the sport was passed on to his son, Chandler, who also raced on Pikes Peak before a tragic accident in 2001. Ralph Bruning’s legacy lives on in racing lore — as a pioneer, a competitor, and a man who never stopped climbing.
Joe Sisneros
A trailblazer in adaptive coaching and a champion of inclusion, Joe Sisneros left an indelible mark on Colorado sports through his extraordinary leadership at the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind (CSDB). Recognized for his pioneering leadership, innovation, and lasting impact on high school athletics. As the longtime football coach at CSDB, Sisneros redefined what was possible for student-athletes facing unique challenges — proving that communication, determination, and unity can overcome any barrier. In 1977, under Sisneros' guidance, the CSDB football team captured the 8-man state high school championship, a historic achievement that resonated far beyond the field. What made this victory truly remarkable was Sisneros’ groundbreaking approach to communication. He developed and implemented an innovative system that allowed his players — many of whom were deaf or hard of hearing — to understand plays, coordinate strategies, and perform as a cohesive unit, all without sacrificing the competitive intensity of the game. His dedication to adaptive coaching and athlete empowerment earned him widespread respect and admiration. In 2008, Sisneros received the prestigious Col. F. Don Miller Sports Service Award, honoring his decades of service and commitment to inclusive athletics. Joe Sisneros' induction into the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame is a celebration of a visionary coach whose legacy continues to inspire. His work at CSDB opened doors for generations of athletes and proved that excellence knows no limits when heart and innovation lead the way.
Jay Engeln
A pioneer, coach, and educator, Jay Engeln’s impact on Colorado soccer runs deep, shaping the sport at both the high school and community levels for generations. He had a lifelong dedication to soccer, education, and the growth of youth athletics in Colorado. A trailblazer on and off the field, Engeln’s impact on the sport — and the lives of countless student-athletes — has been transformative. Engeln played four years of collegiate soccer at Colorado College, where he earned Team MVP honors and was named to the All-Rocky Mountain Team. But his influence extended far beyond his playing days. In the 1970s, he helped launch the Colorado Springs Metro Soccer League and was instrumental in forming the first high school boys’ soccer team outside the Denver Metro area at Mitchell High School. In 1975, he pioneered girls soccer in Colorado by organizing the first girls high school team in the state at Doherty. He played a key role in getting boys and girls soccer sanctioned as CHSAA varsity sports, and as head coach at Doherty, he led his teams to multiple league titles, four straight district championships, three Final Four appearances, and two state championships. Engeln was a five-time Metro League Coach of the Year, two-time State Coach of the Year, and the 1985 National Coach of the Year. He also received the prestigious United Soccer Coaches Honor Award. Beyond coaching, Engeln served as principal at Palmer High School in the 1990s, continuing his commitment to youth development and leadership. Reflecting both his creativity and dedication to students, he once dribbled a soccer ball to the summit of Pikes Peak, raising $30,000 for Palmer High School — a remarkable feat that garnered national attention from ESPN.
Haleigh Washington
A towering presence on the volleyball court and a champion at every level, Haleigh Washington has built a legacy defined by excellence, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Her world-class volleyball career has spanned high school stardom, collegiate dominance, and Olympic glory. A native of Colorado Springs and standout athlete at Doherty High School, Washington’s journey from local sensation to international champion has been nothing short of extraordinary. As a high school star, Washington was named All-State while playing center blocker, quickly earning recognition as one of the top volleyball prospects in the country. She continued her rise at Penn State, where she became a multi-time All-American and played a crucial role in leading the Nittany Lions to an NCAA national championship. Her success at the collegiate level propelled her onto the international stage with Team USA. Washington has represented the United States with distinction, earning a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and silver in 2024 in Paris and capturing gold at the 2021 Volleyball Nations League. Known for her explosive blocking, court intelligence, and vibrant energy, she has become a cornerstone of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Washington’s induction into the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame is a celebration not only of her elite athletic accomplishments, but also of the pride she brings to her hometown every time she steps onto the court. Her story continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Ben Garland
A standout both on and off the field, Ben Garland’s journey from the U.S. Air Force Academy to the NFL is a testament to his leadership, resilience, and relentless drive. An honor befitting a man who exemplifies excellence in athletics, service, and leadership. A 2010 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Garland made a name for himself on and off the football field, building a legacy rooted in determination, discipline, and heart. As a standout lineman at Air Force, Garland appeared in 39 games with 34 starts, racking up 115 tackles over his career. As a senior, he earned second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors, capping off an impressive collegiate run. After graduation, Garland continued to serve as a Major in the U.S. Air Force and later with the Air National Guard, seamlessly balancing his military duties with a demanding NFL career. Garland went on to play in the NFL for the Denver Broncos, Atlanta Falcons, and San Francisco 49ers — remarkably, all three teams reached the Super Bowl during his tenure. His impact extended beyond the stat sheet; he was widely respected for his work ethic, humility, and leadership in the locker room and in the community. Garland was a two-time nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award and the recipient of the NFL’s Salute to Service Award — both reflecting his remarkable commitment to serving others. Inducted into the Air Force Academy Hall of Fame in 2024, Garland’s upcoming recognition in the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame cements his place as a local legend whose influence transcends the game.
1984 Fountain-Fort Carson High School Boys' & Girls' Track & Field
In a season that showcased speed, strength, and exceptional coaching, the 1984 Fountain-Fort Carson boys' and girls' track and field teams achieved an extraordinary feat — both squads captured state championships in the same year, on the same day. It was one of the most remarkable seasons in Trojans athletic history. That year, the boys' and girls' teams pulled off, a rare dual triumph that showcased the depth, talent, and determination of the program under legendary coaches Art Hassler and Diana Frederic. Frederic and Hassler, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021, orchestrated a season of dominance and unity. Their leadership brought together a diverse group of athletes, all committed to pushing themselves and each other to new heights. The 1984 teams were not just winners, they were record-setters, known for their relentless training, strategic execution, and unshakable team spirit. The boys' and girls' squads each faced fierce competition throughout the season, but they rose to the occasion at every meet, culminating in twin state titles that still resonate as a proud achievement in school history. The dual championship was a rare and shining moment that reflected the excellence and equity within the program — a balance of talent and opportunity that set a high standard for years to come. Their Hall of Fame induction cements their legacy as one of the most iconic and inspiring groups to ever represent Fountain-Fort Carson.
1975 Mitchell High School Boys' Football
The 1975 Mitchell High School football team made history by capturing the school’s first state championship, setting a gold standard for excellence that would shape the program for decades. Under the guidance of Hall of Fame head coach Jim Hartman, a dedicated staff and powered by a roster of gritty, determined athletes, the team’s remarkable season was marked by discipline, heart, and unshakable unity. Led by a core of determined players and visionary coaches, the 1975 team forged an unforgettable season defined by discipline, heart, and resilience. They played with a unity and intensity that overwhelmed opponents and rallied the community behind them. The Marauders performance and success was defined and motivated by their individual and team attitude and belief in themselves and teammates. Game after game, they delivered standout performances, building momentum all the way to the title and establishing themselves as one of the greatest teams in school history. This resulted in the Mitchell Marauders being the 1975 Colorado State Football Champions. The ’75 Marauders started the season with a 7-6 loss to Arvada West due to a missed 2-point conversion which kept the team from perfection. Following this initial game, Mitchell won 12 straight games. This undefeated run included a record four straight games, holding their opponents scoreless. The Blue and Orange ended their spectacular journey with the State Championship by a 9-0 victory over the undefeated and defending state champion Denver Kennedy. The game was played in Denver in a snowy 17-degree storm. Their legacy continues to inspire, and their induction stands as a proud moment for Mitchell High School and its community.
Teenan Anderson
Col. F. Don Miller Sports Service Award Winner
Teenan Anderson, a CHSAA Coaches' Hall of Fame inductee, led the Colorado Track & XC Clinic from 1988–2006 while also founding TEEVA Track Club and organizing community-driven events like “Run for the Homeless.” His Harrison High School teams achieved extraordinary success, with multiple top-three state finishes and a state championship in 2000. Anderson was a multi-time recipient of state and national coaching honors, including Gazette Coach of the Year. He also championed inclusion, working with blind and special needs athletes throughout his career. His devotion to track and field shaped both athletes and the broader community.
John "Jack" Chamney
Col. F. Don Miller Sports Service Award Winner
A trailblazer in Colorado hockey, Jack Chamney earned a scholarship to Colorado College and was one of six Canadians on its first interscholastic team. He founded and coached the Cheyenne Mountain hockey team and co-founded the first official Colorado Springs City Hockey League (CHL). He founded the Young America Hockey Program in Colorado Springs, the first Colorado Hockey Referees Association, the Colorado Amateur Hockey Association, and the Young American Hockey Committee, all of which are still active. During this time, he also began his service as the director of hockey at The Broadmoor World Arena. He later formed and coached a hockey team for the boys and young men of the Myron Stratton Home and the surrounding community and was selected as a member of the Young American Hockey Advisory Board. He coached and managed teams from the 1940s to the 1970s. He passed away in 1998.
Pikes Peak Road Runners
Pikes Peak Community Legacy Award Winner
For more than 50 years, the Pikes Peak Road Runners (PPRR) organization has served as a cornerstone of the Colorado Springs running community. With a mission to promote fitness, inclusivity, and outdoor health, PPRR supports runners of all ages and abilities—whether recreational joggers or elite competitors. The club hosts a robust calendar of events each year, including the beloved Winter Series and Fall Series, which have become staples of the regional trail and road running scene. With over 1,000 members, PPRR continues to foster camaraderie, community, and a lasting culture of running excellence in the Pikes Peak region.
Dan Foster
Thayer Tutt Sportsman Award Winner
Dan Foster serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA), an organization dedicated to promoting the game of baseball, raising money for charity, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Under his leadership, the MLBPAA has expanded its outreach through youth clinics, community events, and Legends for Youth programs across the country. Foster plays a vital role in connecting former professional players with local communities, emphasizing mentorship and the lifelong value of sport. His vision continues to enhance the legacy and impact of former MLB players nationwide.
Proudly Presented by:
The Gazette
Learn MoreLOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY?
