Six star athletes set to join Colorado Sports Hall of Fame

In April 2026, a significant ceremony will take place in Denver, Colorado, where six prominent athletes from the state’s rich sports history will be inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. This event will honor individuals who have made remarkable contributions to various sports, showcasing Colorado's talent on both national and international stages. Among the inductees is Steve Foley, who played as a defensive back for the Denver Broncos from 1976 to 1986. During his career, Foley amassed a remarkable total of 44 interceptions, which remains the highest in the franchise's history. He played a vital role in leading the Broncos to four AFC West Division titles and participated in the team's first two Super Bowl appearances, cementing his legacy in the sport and the franchise. Alongside Foley, former Denver Nuggets guard Lafayette "Fat" Lever will be honored for his contributions during his time with the team. Lever, noted for his triple-doubles, accumulated 43 during his six seasons, setting a standard for performance in the franchise where he also boasts the title of all-time leader in steals and ranks third in assists. This recognition further highlights Colorado's substantial influence within the basketball landscape. Another inductee is Kordell Stewart, known for his exceptional versatility on the field and for leading the University of Colorado to notable victories, including a dramatic finish against Michigan in 1994 when he executed a 64-yard touchdown pass as time expired. His contributions earned him a place in the hearts of many CU fans and cemented his status as a celebrated former quarterback. The list of honorees also includes Beatriz "Gigi" Fernández, who is recognized as an Olympic gold medalist in tennis and one of the top players in the Women's Tennis Association, accumulating 70 titles during her career. Wendy Koenig Knudson, another notable inductee, became a pioneer for American women in track and field, being the second in American history to break the two-minute barrier in the 800 meters during the semifinals of the 1976 Olympics. Lastly, Harry Holliness, a Denver native and basketball player, still holds several scoring records at the University of Denver and is recognized for his philanthropy and community service. This induction ceremony in April 2026 will serve not just as a celebration of their individual achievements but also as a testament to the rich sporting heritage of Colorado, inspiring future generations of athletes.