Tribute celebrates sports champions

The Tacoma-Pierce County Athletic Commission celebrated local sports legends at the 2025 Tribute to Champions on May 13 at the McGavick Conference Center. The event featured a dessert social and silent auction benefiting the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Museum, where attendees mingled and enjoyed free copies of "Playgrounds to The Pros. " Emcee Chris Egan highlighted the importance of honoring local athletes and the contributions of the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Museum. Distinguished Achievement Awards recognized outstanding officiating and coaching, with recipients like Dan Graves and Dorinda Carpenter. The evening also included special performances by Susan Westering and Bill Ralston, who led an invocation prayer.

Notably, 96-year-old Dick Hannula received applause for his lifelong contributions to swimming. Attendees celebrated new Hall of Fame inductees, including Nick Hagadone and Jim McPhee. This event not only honored past achievements but also reinforced the community’s commitment to recognizing athletic excellence.