Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024

WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event

WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event

THE GREATER SAVANNAH ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTING THE CLASS OF 20- 24. AND HONORING HIGH SCHOOL STAND OUTS. WJCL 22'S FRANK SULKOWSKI EMCEED THE EVENT MONDAY NIGHT IN FRONT OF A PACKED HOUSE AT THE ALEE SHRINE TEMPLE. THE ATHLETES BEING INDUCTED INCLUDE FORMER GROVES STAR DONALD CHUMLEY, FORMER SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN BASEBALL STAR KRIS EDGE - BOTH FORMER GEORGIA BULLDOGS. PLUS, FORMER SAVANNAH HIGH FOOTBALL STAR FRANK KEARSE... AND FORMER WINDOSR FOREST BASEBALL STAR JASON SHIELL. THE HALL OF FAME ALSO HONORED B- C FOOTBALL COACH DANNY BRITT WHO HAS LED THE CADETS TO FOUR STATE TITLES IN THE PAST 14 YEARS. EIGHT HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES WERE ALSO HONORED. IT'S BEEN A IT'S BEEN A GREAT RIDE. AND I'M VERY THANKFUL FOR ALL THE PLACES THAT HAVE BEEN AND ALL THE PEOPLE THAT HELPED ME GET HERE. AND I'M JUST TRULY THANKFUL. SAVANNAH IS SPECIAL, REMAINS MY HOME, AND TO BE HONORED IN THIS WAY IS SOMETHING I WON'T EVER FORGET. IT MEANS EVERYTHING YOU GROWING UP, YOU WANT TO BE MENTIONED WITH THE GREATS. YOU WANT TO BE THE BEST. AND JUST HAVING YOUR NAME CALLED AND BEING INDUCTED IS A BIG THING. IS ALWAYS GOOD HERE. YOU KNEW IT GROWING UP. IT'S IT. BUT NOW, BECAUSE OF THE MEDIA AND THE COVERAGE, THESE THESE KIDS KID AND WE'RE FINALLY STARTING TO NOTICE THAT SAVANNAH IS IS A TRULY AN ATHLETIC TOWN AND AND I THINK THERE'S PLENTY MORE ATHLETES WHERE TH

Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024

WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event

The Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame inducted the class of 2024 and honored high school, student-athletes.WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event Monday night at the Alee Shrine Temple.Athletes:Donald Chumley-Groves High School Football: Donald Chumley had a notable football career both in high school and at the University of Georgia.· He was recognized as a AAAA honorable mention All-State lineman at Groves High School in 1980.· Chumley joined the University of Georgia's football program as part of the 1981 freshman class.· Initially playing on the JV squad, he later transitioned to varsity football, starting as an offensive lineman.· He moved to the defensive side of the ball just before the start of the 1982 varsity season, becoming a valuable backup after an injury to All-American Jimmy Payne.· Chumley's standout performance as a starting defensive tackle helped the University of Georgia Bulldogs achieve success, including being part of the highly regarded 1983 team that won the Cotton Bowl championship and was ranked fourth nationally.· In his senior year, Chumley continued to excel, being considered one of the defensive standouts on the team. He amassed impressive statistics, including 83 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.· Donald Chumley's selection as the final pick in the 1985 NFL Draft earned him the humorous title of "Mr. Irrelevant," a tradition that began in 1976 to honor the last player chosen in the draft. After being released by the San Francisco 49ers, Chumley signed with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League in September 1985.Kris Edge-Savannah Christian Preparatory School Baseball: Kris Edge's contributions to the Georgia Bulldogs' baseball program during the early 2000s were instrumental in the team's resurgence and success. As a native of Savannah, Georgia, having played at Savannah Christian Prep, Edge played a pivotal role in two landmark seasons for the Bulldogs.In 2001, Edge was a key member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship team that achieved a remarkable feat by advancing to the College World Series. This marked Georgia's first appearance in the CWS since 1990, and it secured the program's first league title since 1954. The team's impressive 47-22 record, including a strong 20-10 performance in the SEC, underscored their dominance and marked a turning point for Georgia baseball.Building on the momentum from their successful 2001 season, Edge and the Bulldogs continued to make history in 2002. They reached the finals of the NCAA Atlanta Regional. This achievement represented the first time in school history that Georgia had made back-to-back trips to the NCAA Tournament, further solidifying their status as a competitive force in collegiate baseball.Edge's contributions both on the field and in the locker room were invaluable during these historic seasons. His leadership, dedication, and skill set the tone for the team's success and helped establish a winning culture within the program.Overall, Edge's role in Georgia baseball's resurgence during the early 2000s remains a defining chapter in the program's history. His impact continues to be remembered and celebrated by Bulldogs fans, serving as a reminder of the team's remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy of its players.Frank Kearse-Savannah High School Football: Frank Kearse's journey from Savannah High School to the NFL is quite remarkable. He made a significant impact during his college years at Alabama A&M, where he played as a defensive lineman for the Bulldogs football team from 2007 to 2011. Kearse's dedication and talent on the field earned him recognition, including being named AAMU Freshman of the Year in 2007 and AAMU Defensive Player of the Year in both 2009 and 2010. His leadership qualities were evident as he served as team captain for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.Notably, Kearse was ranked 10th in the nation among defensive tackles during his college career. His standout performance led to invitations to prestigious all-star games like the NFLPA Texas vs. the Nation All-Star game and the HBCU All-Star game in 2011. These opportunities showcased his skills to NFL scouts and solidified his position as a promising prospect for the upcoming draft.In the 2011 NFL Draft, Kearse was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round, making him the 231st player taken overall. This marked the beginning of his professional football career, which would see him play for several teams, including the Carolina Panthers, Tennessee Titans, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and New England Patriots. Throughout his NFL journey, Kearse continued to demonstrate his prowess as a defensive end, contributing to his teams' defensive strategies and showcasing his versatility on the field.Off the field, Kearse pursued his academic goals, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Alabama A&M University. This commitment to education and community service reflects Kearse's well-rounded character and his desire to make a positive impact both on and off the field.Jason Shiell-Windsor Forest High School Baseball: Jason Shiell attended Windsor Forest High School in Savannah, Georgia. He was a star baseball player in the mid-1990s. He was drafted out of high school and it quickly became clear that Jason Shiell's baseball journey was characterized by perseverance and resilience, navigating through various minor league teams and experiencing brief stints in Major League Baseball.Starting his career as a draft pick for the Atlanta Braves in 1995, Shiell worked his way through the Braves' farm system until he was traded to the San Diego Padres in 1999. Over the years, he pitched at different levels in the minor leagues, gradually progressing from Class A-Advanced to Triple-A.In 2002, Shiell finally earned a call-up to the majors with the Padres, appearing in three games. However, his time with the Padres was short-lived as he was claimed off waivers by the Boston Red Sox later that year.During his stint with the Red Sox in 2003, Shiell had the opportunity to showcase his talent in both Triple-A and the MLB. Though his MLB career was relatively brief, he managed to pick up a memorable save against the Angels in April 2003.Unfortunately, Shiell faced setbacks, including undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2004, which sidelined him for the following seasons. However, he demonstrated resilience by returning to professional baseball in 2006 with the Somerset Patriots before rejoining the Atlanta Braves' organization.Despite continued efforts, including a season with the Kansas City Royals and the Milwaukee Brewers' organization, Shiell's professional career came to an end in 2008.Throughout his career, Shiell's dedication to the game and his willingness to persevere through challenges are evident. While his time in the majors was limited, his contributions to various minor league teams underscore his talent and commitment to the sport of baseball.Citation:Danny Britt-Benedictine Military School Head Football Coach:Danny Britt's coaching career is marked by perseverance, growth, and a commitment to excellence. Starting at Calvary Day School in 2001, he initially faced challenges but demonstrated resilience and a willingness to learn from his experiences. After taking time to reflect and refine his leadership skills, Britt returned to coaching and eventually found success at Benedictine Military School as the Head Football Coach and Athletic Director.At Benedictine, Britt not only focused on football but also aimed to cultivate a culture of success across all sports programs. His emphasis on physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork contributed to BC's rise as a powerhouse in high school athletics. Under his guidance, BC achieved remarkable success, winning numerous state championships in football (2014, 2016, 2021, 2022) as well as 13 other state championships and 1 national championships across different sports since 2012. Benedictine has the distinction of being voted the #1 Boys’ Athletic Program in Southeast Georgia for 10 years in a row.Beyond his coaching achievements, Britt's leadership left a lasting impact on the BC community. He instilled values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and community service in his players, shaping them into not just skilled athletes but also responsible individuals. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the field.Overall, Danny Britt's coaching career serves as a testament to the transformative power of dedication, resilience, and effective leadership in shaping the lives of student-athletes and fostering a culture of success in sports programs.Julie Jones-Savannah Christian Preparatory School Head Volleyball Coach: Julie Jones's remarkable tenure as the volleyball coach at Savannah Christian is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and passion for the sport. Over the course of 26 seasons, she has transformed her alma mater's volleyball program into a state powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on Georgia high school volleyball.Starting her coaching journey at the young age of 22, Jones has amassed an impressive record of over 800 career wins. Her success on the court speaks volumes about her coaching prowess and ability to develop winning teams year after year.Jones's achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she ranks fifth all-time in career victories among Georgia high school coaches. Among active coaches, she holds an impressive third place, highlighting her ongoing impact and influence within the state's volleyball community.Her legacy extends far beyond the wins and losses, however. Jones's commitment to her players' development, both on and off the court, has undoubtedly shaped countless lives throughout her illustrious coaching career. Her passion for the game and dedication to her alma mater make her a revered figure in Georgia high school volleyball.As she continues to lead Savannah Christian's volleyball program, Julie Jones's impact will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come, cementing her status as one of the most successful and influential high school coaches in Georgia history.Calhoun Award:Luke Kromenhoek-Benedictine Military School Quarterback: Luke Kromenhoek’s high school career is an exemplary showcase of athleticism, versatility, and leadership. His journey from a multi-faceted role player to a leading quarterback who carried Benedictine High School deep into the playoffs, and even to a state championship, speaks volumes of his development and potential. Luke’s background in basketball and lacrosse at the prep level adds a rich layer to his athletic profile.MA Spellman Award:Forest City Gun Club Juniors Team: The Forest City Gun Club’s Junior shooting was formed in 2014 by club manager Zach Guerrettaz and club member Lee Summerford. In 2014 there were only 8 shooters. Today the team has grown to 86 members of all ages and categories. There are six divisions: Rookie, Intermediate, Intermediate Advanced, Junior Varsity, Varsity and Collegiate.Teams from all over the Nation meet annually in Marengo Ohio to compete for the National Championship. Competition is extremely tight as in 2022 the Forest City Squad won the National Championship by just one target. The Forest City Varsity club is on a phenomenal and unprecedented run having won four consecutive National Titles ( 2020, 2021,2022 and 2023). In 2022, Varsity shooter Rich Pazderski was the high shooter overall of all competitors.The Forest City Gun Club is the oldest operating Gun Club in America and the largest Skeet facility in the world. With a great tradition including hosting the “Masters Skeet Tournament” annually, the Forest City Juniors continue to build on the great reputation and ensure that there will be a bright future for both the club and sports shootingStudent Athletes:Will Hampton (Baseball-Calvary Day)Caleb Jones (Boys Basketball-Benedictine)Stella Oelschig (Girls Basketball-Savannah Country Day)Jake Merklinger (Football-Calvary Day)Wesley Hooker (Boys Soccer-Savannah Country Day)Abby Walsh (Girls Soccer-Calvary Day)Payton Livingston (Softball-Savannah Christian Prep)Finn Higginbotham (Volleyball-Savannah Arts)The Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame was founded in 1965 to honor the achievements and contributions of the athletic standouts and leaders in and around Savannah.

SAVANNAH, Ga. —

The Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame inducted the class of 2024 and honored high school, student-athletes.

WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event Monday night at the Alee Shrine Temple.

What an honor to serve as emcee for tonight’s Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet. So many deserving athletes and coaches past and present being honored. @WJCLNews pic.twitter.com/vfagpNeh1e
— Frank Sulkowski WJCL (@TheBigGuyWJCL) May 6, 2024

Athletes:

Donald Chumley-Groves High School Football: Donald Chumley had a notable football career both in high school and at the University of Georgia.

· He was recognized as a AAAA honorable mention All-State lineman at Groves High School in 1980.

· Chumley joined the University of Georgia's football program as part of the 1981 freshman class.

· Initially playing on the JV squad, he later transitioned to varsity football, starting as an offensive lineman.

· He moved to the defensive side of the ball just before the start of the 1982 varsity season, becoming a valuable backup after an injury to All-American Jimmy Payne.

· Chumley's standout performance as a starting defensive tackle helped the University of Georgia Bulldogs achieve success, including being part of the highly regarded 1983 team that won the Cotton Bowl championship and was ranked fourth nationally.

· In his senior year, Chumley continued to excel, being considered one of the defensive standouts on the team. He amassed impressive statistics, including 83 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.

· Donald Chumley's selection as the final pick in the 1985 NFL Draft earned him the humorous title of "Mr. Irrelevant," a tradition that began in 1976 to honor the last player chosen in the draft. After being released by the San Francisco 49ers, Chumley signed with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League in September 1985.

Kris Edge-Savannah Christian Preparatory School Baseball: Kris Edge's contributions to the Georgia Bulldogs' baseball program during the early 2000s were instrumental in the team's resurgence and success. As a native of Savannah, Georgia, having played at Savannah Christian Prep, Edge played a pivotal role in two landmark seasons for the Bulldogs.

In 2001, Edge was a key member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship team that achieved a remarkable feat by advancing to the College World Series. This marked Georgia's first appearance in the CWS since 1990, and it secured the program's first league title since 1954. The team's impressive 47-22 record, including a strong 20-10 performance in the SEC, underscored their dominance and marked a turning point for Georgia baseball.

Building on the momentum from their successful 2001 season, Edge and the Bulldogs continued to make history in 2002. They reached the finals of the NCAA Atlanta Regional. This achievement represented the first time in school history that Georgia had made back-to-back trips to the NCAA Tournament, further solidifying their status as a competitive force in collegiate baseball.

Edge's contributions both on the field and in the locker room were invaluable during these historic seasons. His leadership, dedication, and skill set the tone for the team's success and helped establish a winning culture within the program.

Overall, Edge's role in Georgia baseball's resurgence during the early 2000s remains a defining chapter in the program's history. His impact continues to be remembered and celebrated by Bulldogs fans, serving as a reminder of the team's remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy of its players.

Frank Kearse-Savannah High School Football: Frank Kearse's journey from Savannah High School to the NFL is quite remarkable. He made a significant impact during his college years at Alabama A&M, where he played as a defensive lineman for the Bulldogs football team from 2007 to 2011. Kearse's dedication and talent on the field earned him recognition, including being named AAMU Freshman of the Year in 2007 and AAMU Defensive Player of the Year in both 2009 and 2010. His leadership qualities were evident as he served as team captain for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

Notably, Kearse was ranked 10th in the nation among defensive tackles during his college career. His standout performance led to invitations to prestigious all-star games like the NFLPA Texas vs. the Nation All-Star game and the HBCU All-Star game in 2011. These opportunities showcased his skills to NFL scouts and solidified his position as a promising prospect for the upcoming draft.

In the 2011 NFL Draft, Kearse was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round, making him the 231st player taken overall. This marked the beginning of his professional football career, which would see him play for several teams, including the Carolina Panthers, Tennessee Titans, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and New England Patriots. Throughout his NFL journey, Kearse continued to demonstrate his prowess as a defensive end, contributing to his teams' defensive strategies and showcasing his versatility on the field.

Off the field, Kearse pursued his academic goals, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Alabama A&M University. This commitment to education and community service reflects Kearse's well-rounded character and his desire to make a positive impact both on and off the field.

Jason Shiell-Windsor Forest High School Baseball: Jason Shiell attended Windsor Forest High School in Savannah, Georgia. He was a star baseball player in the mid-1990s. He was drafted out of high school and it quickly became clear that Jason Shiell's baseball journey was characterized by perseverance and resilience, navigating through various minor league teams and experiencing brief stints in Major League Baseball.

Starting his career as a draft pick for the Atlanta Braves in 1995, Shiell worked his way through the Braves' farm system until he was traded to the San Diego Padres in 1999. Over the years, he pitched at different levels in the minor leagues, gradually progressing from Class A-Advanced to Triple-A.

In 2002, Shiell finally earned a call-up to the majors with the Padres, appearing in three games. However, his time with the Padres was short-lived as he was claimed off waivers by the Boston Red Sox later that year.

During his stint with the Red Sox in 2003, Shiell had the opportunity to showcase his talent in both Triple-A and the MLB. Though his MLB career was relatively brief, he managed to pick up a memorable save against the Angels in April 2003.

Unfortunately, Shiell faced setbacks, including undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2004, which sidelined him for the following seasons. However, he demonstrated resilience by returning to professional baseball in 2006 with the Somerset Patriots before rejoining the Atlanta Braves' organization.

Despite continued efforts, including a season with the Kansas City Royals and the Milwaukee Brewers' organization, Shiell's professional career came to an end in 2008.

Throughout his career, Shiell's dedication to the game and his willingness to persevere through challenges are evident. While his time in the majors was limited, his contributions to various minor league teams underscore his talent and commitment to the sport of baseball.

Citation:

Danny Britt-Benedictine Military School Head Football Coach:

Danny Britt's coaching career is marked by perseverance, growth, and a commitment to excellence. Starting at Calvary Day School in 2001, he initially faced challenges but demonstrated resilience and a willingness to learn from his experiences. After taking time to reflect and refine his leadership skills, Britt returned to coaching and eventually found success at Benedictine Military School as the Head Football Coach and Athletic Director.

At Benedictine, Britt not only focused on football but also aimed to cultivate a culture of success across all sports programs. His emphasis on physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork contributed to BC's rise as a powerhouse in high school athletics. Under his guidance, BC achieved remarkable success, winning numerous state championships in football (2014, 2016, 2021, 2022) as well as 13 other state championships and 1 national championships across different sports since 2012. Benedictine has the distinction of being voted the #1 Boys’ Athletic Program in Southeast Georgia for 10 years in a row.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Britt's leadership left a lasting impact on the BC community. He instilled values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and community service in his players, shaping them into not just skilled athletes but also responsible individuals. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

Overall, Danny Britt's coaching career serves as a testament to the transformative power of dedication, resilience, and effective leadership in shaping the lives of student-athletes and fostering a culture of success in sports programs.

Julie Jones-Savannah Christian Preparatory School Head Volleyball Coach: Julie Jones's remarkable tenure as the volleyball coach at Savannah Christian is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and passion for the sport. Over the course of 26 seasons, she has transformed her alma mater's volleyball program into a state powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on Georgia high school volleyball.

Starting her coaching journey at the young age of 22, Jones has amassed an impressive record of over 800 career wins. Her success on the court speaks volumes about her coaching prowess and ability to develop winning teams year after year.

Jones's achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she ranks fifth all-time in career victories among Georgia high school coaches. Among active coaches, she holds an impressive third place, highlighting her ongoing impact and influence within the state's volleyball community.

Her legacy extends far beyond the wins and losses, however. Jones's commitment to her players' development, both on and off the court, has undoubtedly shaped countless lives throughout her illustrious coaching career. Her passion for the game and dedication to her alma mater make her a revered figure in Georgia high school volleyball.

As she continues to lead Savannah Christian's volleyball program, Julie Jones's impact will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come, cementing her status as one of the most successful and influential high school coaches in Georgia history.

Calhoun Award:

Luke Kromenhoek-Benedictine Military School Quarterback: Luke Kromenhoek’s high school career is an exemplary showcase of athleticism, versatility, and leadership. His journey from a multi-faceted role player to a leading quarterback who carried Benedictine High School deep into the playoffs, and even to a state championship, speaks volumes of his development and potential. Luke’s background in basketball and lacrosse at the prep level adds a rich layer to his athletic profile.

MA Spellman Award:

Forest City Gun Club Juniors Team: The Forest City Gun Club’s Junior shooting was formed in 2014 by club manager Zach Guerrettaz and club member Lee Summerford. In 2014 there were only 8 shooters. Today the team has grown to 86 members of all ages and categories. There are six divisions: Rookie, Intermediate, Intermediate Advanced, Junior Varsity, Varsity and Collegiate.

Teams from all over the Nation meet annually in Marengo Ohio to compete for the National Championship. Competition is extremely tight as in 2022 the Forest City Squad won the National Championship by just one target. The Forest City Varsity club is on a phenomenal and unprecedented run having won four consecutive National Titles ( 2020, 2021,2022 and 2023). In 2022, Varsity shooter Rich Pazderski was the high shooter overall of all competitors.

The Forest City Gun Club is the oldest operating Gun Club in America and the largest Skeet facility in the world. With a great tradition including hosting the “Masters Skeet Tournament” annually, the Forest City Juniors continue to build on the great reputation and ensure that there will be a bright future for both the club and sports shooting

Student Athletes:

Will Hampton (Baseball-Calvary Day)

Caleb Jones (Boys Basketball-Benedictine)

Stella Oelschig (Girls Basketball-Savannah Country Day)

Jake Merklinger (Football-Calvary Day)

Wesley Hooker (Boys Soccer-Savannah Country Day)

Abby Walsh (Girls Soccer-Calvary Day)

Payton Livingston (Softball-Savannah Christian Prep)

Finn Higginbotham (Volleyball-Savannah Arts)

The Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame was founded in 1965 to honor the achievements and contributions of the athletic standouts and leaders in and around Savannah.

Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024

WJCL 22's Frank Sulkowski emceed the event

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