The 49th annual Hornell Sports Night, set to take place at The Main Place, is a celebration of local athletes and coaches who have made significant contributions to sports. This prestigious event brings together both local and national sports figures, including retired NBA star Larry Johnson, NFL quarterback Tyrod Taylor, former Major League Baseball player Andruw Jones, and professional wrestler Triple V. While the presence of these celebrities draws attention, the evening truly shines with the recognition of young athletes and dedicated coaches. Among the honorees are Payton Odell, named Female Athlete of the Year, Colton Havens, awarded Male Athlete of the Year, Jim Tobin, recognized as Sportsperson of the Year, Rebekah Galloway, recipient of the Achievement Award, and Phil Stewart, receiving the Mike Fucci Leadership Impact Award.
A Celebration of Athletic Excellence in Hornell
In the heart of the Canisteo Valley, the town of Hornell prepares for an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating athletic achievements. On Saturday, under the golden hues of autumn, The Main Place will host the 49th annual Hornell Sports Night, bringing together a diverse crowd of sports enthusiasts, local heroes, and renowned professionals. This year's event promises to be a memorable occasion, featuring appearances by celebrated figures such as former NBA legend Larry "Grandmama" Johnson, ex-Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor, and Major League Baseball veteran Andruw Jones.
While the allure of meeting these stars may captivate many attendees, the core of the evening remains the acknowledgment of local talent. Payton Odell, hailing from Arkport-Canaseraga, has been honored as the Female Athlete of the Year for her exceptional performance on the basketball court, leading her team to numerous victories and earning MVP accolades. Meanwhile, Colton Havens, a wrestling prodigy from Canisteo-Greenwood, was celebrated as the Male Athlete of the Year after clinching a state championship in his weight class.
Long-time coach Jim Tobin received the Sportsperson of the Year award for nearly four decades of dedication to the Hornell boys soccer program. His teams have claimed seven sectional titles, and his influence extends far beyond high school sports into various youth leagues. Additionally, Rebekah Galloway, a Special Olympics participant, was acknowledged with the Achievement Award for her unwavering spirit and commitment to competition. Lastly, wrestling coach Phil Stewart was presented with the inaugural Mike Fucci Leadership Impact Award for his transformative impact on countless young wrestlers.
From the hardwood floors to the wrestling mats, this evening highlights the hard work and passion that define the sporting community in Hornell.
This year’s Sports Night serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing grassroots talent and fostering a love for sports among the youth. It is inspiring to witness how events like these not only celebrate individual achievements but also strengthen the bonds within a community. By honoring both amateur and professional athletes, the organizers create a platform where everyone can see the value of perseverance, teamwork, and leadership. As we reflect on the stories of Payton, Colton, Jim, Rebekah, and Phil, it becomes clear that sports transcend mere competition—they embody values that enrich lives and inspire future generations.