Foundations of Fame
The original Club was started for the purpose of creating a softball team and other sports teams,
such as dart ball. The Club became much more as it reached out to recognized Saugerties sports
athletes of the past, creating the Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame.
The Hall of Fame was described as an “endeavor to honor outstanding athletes of years past.”
The first banquet was held at the Saugerties V.F.W. on February 29, 1964. Don McCaig was the first
chairman of this event, and from 1965 through 2006 Jim Gage served as chairman.
In 1965, recognition was extended beyond athletes to also pay tribute to those who helped promote
sports and pave the way for the town’s current sports eminence.
The South Side Men’s Club staged the first six banquets. When the club disbanded, the event
continued for four more years under former members led by Jim Gage.
SAA Takes the Reins
The reins were passed to the Saugerties Athletic Association in 1974 and continued through 1987.
During this time, Jim Gage served as president, with Jack Keeley as secretary and treasurer.
In 1987, the Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame Club was officially formed.
The Hall of Fame Today
The Hall was strictly a men’s club until 1988, when Gladys Hutton became the first female member.
As of 2024, over 300 individuals—including 12 women—have been inducted.
With honorees dating back to the nineteenth century, the Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame proudly
continues the tradition begun in 1964.
Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame Club Membership
Voting for Hall of Fame entry is conducted by members attending the annual meeting or via
absentee ballot. Nomination applications are reviewed annually and are due by the third
week of November.
Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame Nominee Application