VIA Heritage Association Prepares To Induct Its 11th Hall of Fame Class

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

The VIA Heritage Association Hall of Fame will induct its eleventh class for 2026 during a banquet ceremony on June 12, 2026 at the DoubleTree at 990 Hilton Heights RD Charlottesville, VA 22901.

This year’s VIA Hall of Fame inductees include two Athletes, two Coaches and two Contributors. Those inducted into the Hall of Fame are chosen by the VIA Heritage Association which is headquartered in Charlottesville and whose purpose it to preserve the heritage and legacy of African-American high school students, sports and activities under segregation. It is dedicated to recognizing the rich heritage and legacy of African-American students and adults who participated in the Virginia Interscholastic Association from 1954-70 and its predecessor organization, the Virginia Interscholastic Athletic League (VIAL). Therefore, promoting greater appreciation and understanding of the contributions of Blacks to the history of the Commonwealth of Virginia is a primary objective.

Tickets are single $65, a table of 8 is $500, Tickets may be purchased by contracting Jimmy Hollins at (434) 825-6617. Ticket are on sale right now

2026 Inductees

Johnny Morris: Guard, I.C. Norcom High School, of Portsmouth, Va.

From 1957-1961, he led his I. C. Norcom team in winning the VIA eastern district tournament, and the State tournament. In 1961, Johnny set the eastern district scoring record with a 28-point per game average.

Ray L. Gillespie: Four-Sport Star, John M. Langston High School of Danville, Va.

Holds lettering in baseball, basketball, football and track. In Ray’s senior year he led the league in rushing in football, named to the all -star team in baseball and football. Ray won the 100- and 200-yard dashes, as well as the high jump and broad jump in track.

Horace S. Savage Jr.: Coach, I.C. Norcom High School, Portsmouth, Va.

Coach guided the track team to a State Championship in 1959. He also led the football team to a District Championship and a State Runner-Up finish in 1967. Beyond the trophies, he built a culture of discipline, resilience, and academic excellence.

Tommy Reamon Sr.: Coach, Warwick High School, Newport News, Va

An outstanding coach who maximized his players’ potential.  He was credited with 195 total wins. Tommy swiftly turned around struggling teams, leading Gloucester to its best season in 20 years (5-5) and ending Denbigh’s three-year losing streak.

Donald A. Byers: Contributor, Jackson P. Burley High School, of Charlottesville, VA

From the age of 13-35 he played a lot of baseball. Donald is mentioned in a book called “Sunday coming” as one of the top first basemen of his era. Following his playing days, Donald served with distinction in law enforcement.

Shelia B. Coates: Contributor, Douglas High School, Leesburg, Va.

Over the years, she has testified before Local, State and Federal bodied advised policymakers, and been invited to the White House under multiple administrations. Today she continues to serve on numerous boards, panels, and committees, offering her expertise on women`s rights, equity, community empowerment, inspiring generations to lead with purpose, courage, and conviction.