Another step toward opening the Surrey Sports Hall of Fame (SSHOF) is currently in the works.
The City of Surrey has opened the nomination process for the Hall’s advisory board and nomination committee.
“As we prepare for the inaugural induction ceremony next June, I invite residents to get involved by nominating an athlete or serving on our advisory board or nomination committee," Mayor Brenda Locke said, in a press release sent out July 3.
“Surrey has a rich sports legacy, and it is time to bring the achievements of our amazing athletes and teams to the fore,” Locke added. “The Surrey Sports Hall of Fame is a powerful way to honour the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who have made a lasting impact through sport.”
Nominations for SSHOF’s inaugural class will open up next month, in August. The city plans to unveil the “Class of 2026” next June at city hall, with some sports exhibits set to debut at the Museum of Surrey next spring.
The SSHOF officially moved forward at the end of June when the city approved a work plan for the Hall.
According to the release, “The plan outlines the implementation of key steps, which include the nomination process, governance structure, and the date for the inaugural induction ceremony.”
The Hall will be housed temporarily at the Museum of Surrey and some exhibits could be set up at various city facilities in the interim.
“The permanent location for the Surrey Sports Hall of Fame Gallery will be at the future City Centre Arena,” the release noted.
The new hall of fame will offer both a digital and physical experience for those who visit it. It will highlight the achievements of athletes, coaches, teams, builders, and community leaders "who have contributed" to the vast amount of Surrey’s sports history.
"People have always asked me why do we not have this sports hall of fame, or some sort of recognition for our great people in Surrey," city councillor Doug Elford said. "We have such a deep history provincially, nationally, worldwide. I think it’s time for us to celebrate."
Councillor Rob Stutt said when the hall is finally built people will "be absolutely amazed" when they see the depth of sporting talent that hails from Surrey.
For more information on the Surrey Sports Hall of Fame, or on how to apply for the advisory board, visit surrey.ca/sportshall.
—with files from Tom Zytaruk.
