The Greater Akron Baseball Hall of Fame History
The Greater Akron Baseball Hall of Fame (GABHoF) was founded in 1981 to honor former players, coaches, managers, sponsors, and umpires who have contributed exceptionally to amateur baseball in the Akron area. The vision for the Hall of Fame was created by Rudy Piekarski, whose dream became a reality on May 8, 1982, when 98 people gathered at Anthe’s Restaurant on West Market Street for a banquet to celebrate the inaugural class of 8 inductees. This first group included Jack Bisesi, Garrett Coey, Frank Garcia, Ray Glinsky, Dick Lombardi, Bobby Nash, Joe Winkler, and Dave Young. Of this original group, only Bisesi, Glinsky, and Young are still living. Initially named the Greater Akron Class A-AA Baseball League Hall of Fame, the goal was to recognize those involved in the A, AA, and old Industrial Leagues in Akron.
In August 1984, the organization’s leadership voted to change the name to the Greater Akron Baseball Hall of Fame, reflecting its expanded scope to include all levels of baseball within Akron and the surrounding areas. The GABHoF was incorporated in 1985 as a nonprofit organization and was granted 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. In 1996, the City of Akron provided space at Canal Park Stadium, home of the Akron Aeros (now the Akron RubberDucks), to showcase the Hall of Fame’s exhibits and honor inductees.
The Hall of Fame experienced limited activity from 2005 to 2012 due to health challenges faced by founder and president Rudy Piekarski, who passed away in May 2011. In January 2012, the GABHoF was revitalized under the leadership of Rudy’s brother, Ron Piekarski (a 1997 inductee), Lou Yovanovich (2003 inductee), and Carl Rakich (1985 inductee). They worked with Tom Giffen of Akron-based Roy Hobbs Baseball to form a new Board of Directors, update the Hall’s Constitution and By-Laws, reopen the Hall of Fame at Canal Park, and restore its nonprofit status—all with a renewed focus on honoring and promoting baseball across all levels in the Akron region.
In June 2012, the Board convinced Tom Giffen to become the GABHoF’s president. With a solidified board, efforts began to recruit new inductees, revitalize the Hall’s displays, build stronger relationships with local baseball organizations, and plan the return of the annual induction ceremony. On July 14, 2013, the GABHoF held its first induction ceremony since 2010, celebrating 14 new inductees and 3 service award honorees during a weekend of events.
As an integral part of Akron’s rich history, the future of the GABHoF is bright. The Board of Directors continues to seek support and contributions to ensure the continued growth and success of the Hall of Fame. If you’d like to make a lasting impact on Akron’s historical legacy, consider volunteering or supporting the GABHoF.