Ten men who left their mark on the Niagara Falls sports scene over the years were honored Saturday October 21st at the Como restaurant as the Niagara Falls Sports Hall of Fame inducted the class of 2017. Among those inducted were Frank Layden, former coach of Niagara University and the Utah Jazz along with son Scott, now GM of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Frank Layden

Layden entertained the crowd of 200, as he always does, with a humorous acceptance speech and also reflected on his stay in Niagara Falls calling it his “second home”.

Others inducted were Dom Colucci, Mark Gabriele, John Noworyta, Dan Oliverio, Bill Ripple and Tom Spanbauer.

Jerry Tubinis (deceased) was honored with the Robert Eagler Memorial Award and Joseph Costanzo (deceased) was honored with the Pep DiRamio Service Award.

Individuals are voted into the Niagara Falls Sports Hall of Fame for their contributions to the community as outstanding athletes and or coaches, managers, organizers, officials, athletic directors, sponsors, sports promoters and volunteers. Eligible recipients must be 55 years of age or older to be considered. The organization, originally The Old Timers Sports Hall Of Fame, was established in 1968 and over 300 members have been inducted.