COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (March 21, 2025) – USA Volleyball is proud to announce the full list of 30 distinguished individuals who will be honored at the 2025 USA Volleyball Hall of Fame annual banquet and ceremony on May 21 at the Hilton Denver City Center in Colorado.
The celebration will recognize both Hall of Fame inductees and annual award winners, highlighting their outstanding contributions to the sport. The ceremony takes place just two days before the start of the 2025 USA Volleyball Open National Championship at the Denver Convention Center. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now, with proceeds benefiting the USA Volleyball Foundation.
Hall of Fame Honorees
Among this year’s honorees is Bill Forrester, previously announced as recipient of the prestigious 2025 Harold T. Friermood “Frier” Award, USA Volleyball’s highest honor. He joins All-Time Great Athletes Kerri Walsh Jennings, Mike Dodd, Lindsey Berg, Tayibba Haneef-Park, Tom Hoff and David Lee.
Additionally, legendary coach “Jenny” Lang Ping will be inducted as the 2025 All-Time Great Coach in recognition of her leadership in guiding the U.S. Women’s National Team to a silver medal at the 2008 Olympic Games.
USA Volleyball will also recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport at various levels:
- George J. Fisher Leader in Volleyball Award – Harold Cranswick (Arizona Region Commissioner) and Carla Hall (longtime USAV employee) for their dedication to the growth and leadership of the sport.
- Harry E. Wilson International Service Award – Al Monaco, USA Volleyball’s first executive director and former board chair and legal counsel, for his impact on the sport.
- James E. Coleman National Team Award – Ruth Nelson, former U.S. Women’s National Team assistant coach, for her influence on national team programs, at the collegiate level, and teaching the fundamentals no matter the skill or ability level.
- Joseph B. Sharpless Arbitrator Service Award – Cornelio Galdones, a national referee, national arbiter, and retired national scorer.
- Wilbur H. “Wil” Peck Referee Emeritus Award – Steve Owen and the late Paul Albright for their contributions to officiating at all levels.
- Dr. Neville A. “Doc” Booth Commissioner’s Award – Dave Peixoto (New England Region Commissioner) for his leadership in volleyball development in the New England area and service on the USA Volleyball Board of Directors.
“The USA Volleyball Hall of Fame is a celebration of those who have dedicated their lives to the growth and success of our sport. This year’s honorees represent decades of commitment, leadership and service to volleyball at every level,” shared John Speraw, President and CEO of USA Volleyball. “Their passion and contributions have helped shape the game, ensuring its continued excellence and impact for generations to come.”
In addition, USA Volleyball will also recognize the following individuals with annual awards.
Rebecca B. Howard Diversity & Inclusion Award: Jerico Abanico (Lakas Volleyball Club, Northern California Region)
Jonathan Reeser Sport Science Award: Andrew JM Gregory
Glen G. Davies Referee Service Award: Margie Ray
Referee of the Year: Brig Beatie (Northern California Region)
Scorer of the Year: Amber Fulk (Carolina Region)
Junior Male Athlete of the Year: Grant Lamoureux (Carolina Region)
Junior Female Athlete of the Year: Teraya Sigler (Arizona Region)
Indoor Junior Club of the Year: Rick Welch and Marian Gyhra (Premier Nebraska, Great Plains Region)
Beach Junior Club Director of the Year: Ashtyn Neill (SWI Third Degree Beach Club, Great Plains Region)
Junior Club Service Award: Cambria Kuipers (Tampa United, Florida Region)
Junior Girls Indoor Coach of the Year: Ryan Mitchell (North Texas Region)
Junior Boys Indoor Coach of the Year: Kent Joseph Cheramie (Bayou Region)
Junior Girls Beach Coach of the Year: Stephen McCarthy (TMP Beach Club, North Country)
Junior Boys Beach Coach of the Year: Nicole Christner (S3 Volleyball, Southern Region)