BY LISA STAYTON
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — The first 24 individuals and two teams will be inducted into the Martin County All-Sports Hall of Fame for their extraordinary contributions to athletics. A historic first induction ceremony is set for noon Saturday at the HOF’s new home in the Martin County Library wing of the Roy F. Collier Community Center in Inez.

HOF president Dwayne Sweeney said the ceremony has been about five years in the making. It will celebrate the achievements of acclaimed athletes and coaches from Inez and Warfield high schools from 1927 through 1972.

“Our goal is to bring pride in our rich sports traditions in our county,” Sweeney said. “We have such a rich history and the community and state should be proud.”

Earlier this week, Sweeney was expecting about 150 people from nine different states. Attendees will include family members of the 1941 and 1954 Inez state champion teams. At least three 1954 players will be on hand.

“There are a lot of emotions,” said Sweeney. “We’re excited, nervous, anxious.”

All fans of Martin County athletics are invited to the historic first induction. Seats are $15 at the door.