Broward Education Foundation Announces 2025 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees

The Broward Education Foundation has announced the distinguished class of 2025 inductees for the Broward County Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing six exceptional individuals and five championship teams that have left lasting legacies in the South Florida sports community. The induction ceremony marks the 22nd year of this prestigious recognition program that honors athletes, coaches, and sports pioneers with Broward County connections.

This year's class includes National Football League legend Isaac Bruce, professional rodeo star Isaac Diaz, sports medicine pioneer Daniel Kanell, M.D., Deaflympic swimming champion Kathryn Sallade, Major League Baseball standout Scot Shields, and longtime St. Thomas Aquinas coach Steve Strand. The Cardinal Gibbons High School 1975-1979 4A Women's Volleyball Teams will also be honored for their remarkable five consecutive state championships.

The significance of this induction extends beyond athletic achievement, as the Broward Education Foundation represents the only education foundation in the country with a dedicated athletic arm. According to James A. Knapp, president and CEO of Broward Education Foundation, "The 2025 class is exceptional, not only for their athletic talents, but for their dedication and commitment to excellence. They are an inspiration to our students and the community."

Isaac Bruce, a Dillard High School graduate and Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver, played 16 NFL seasons primarily with the St. Louis Rams, where he secured the team's Super Bowl XXXIV victory with a memorable 73-yard touchdown catch. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Bruce founded the Isaac Bruce Foundation to promote youth health, wellness, and education.

Isaac Diaz represents the rodeo community with over $1.5 million in career earnings and seven Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifications. The Davie native and three-time state high school champion continues to compete at an elite level after nearly two decades in professional saddle bronc riding.

Dr. Daniel Kanell's journey from standout high school athlete to respected sports medicine physician demonstrates the diverse paths to sports excellence. After overcoming a major injury to become a track and field star at the University of Pittsburgh, he earned his medical degree and built a legacy serving as team physician for the Miami Dolphins, Miami Marlins, and other professional organizations while helping launch the Broward County School Board Sports Medicine Program.

Kathryn 'Kathy' Sallade broke barriers as a celebrated Deaflympian who became the world's fastest deaf backstroker, winning five gold medals and setting five world records across the 1969 and 1973 Deaflympics. Her groundbreaking achievements despite profound hearing loss paved the way for future athletes with disabilities.

Scot Shields carved out a remarkable 10-year career as one of Major League Baseball's most reliable setup pitchers, contributing to the Anaheim Angels' 2002 World Series Championship. The Fort Lauderdale High School graduate was named "Set-Up Man of the Decade" for the 2000s by Sports Illustrated and still holds the Angels' all-time record for holds.

Steve Strand's more than four decades at St. Thomas Aquinas High School as player, coach, and mentor resulted in nine district championships, four Final Four appearances, and the school's first boys' basketball state title in 2001. His career record of 397-186 reflects both coaching excellence and his ability to develop players into responsible adults.

The Cardinal Gibbons High School 1975-1979 Women's Volleyball Teams established one of Florida's most dominant dynasties during a transformative period for women's athletics following Title IX. Under legendary coach Louise A. Crocco, the Lady Chiefs captured five consecutive FHSAA 4A state championships, inspiring generations of young female athletes in South Florida.

The induction ceremony will take place on October 16 at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, featuring former WSVN sports anchor and 2024 inductee Steve Shapiro as presenter. According to Shawn Cerra, Director of Athletics for Broward Education Foundation, "It's our privilege to recognize these exceptional individuals who've created a lasting legacy within Broward County's athletic community."

For additional details about the event and the Broward County Sports Hall of Fame, visit browardedfoundation.org/sportshalloffame/.