FIRST IN-PERSON INDUCTION SINCE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Larry Garrison: Sports Savant & Community Health Champion
Watch this story about a man who turned a love of sports into a legacy that still rocks the Space Coast.
Why Larry’s story matters
- Trailblazer – Back in 2011, he became a founding member of the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame review board.
- Community fitness advocate – He lobbied tirelessly for the Health First fitness centers, plugging in the energy people need to stay active.
- Sports champion – From grassroots to big leagues, Larry helped shape the local sports scene with gusto.
What makes his contribution unique
It’s not just the headline-grabbing titles. Larry turned his passion into action, rallying people around the idea that sports = community, health = happiness, and man’s drive = progress.
Get inspired
Remember, a single spirited voice can redefine an entire region’s sporting culture. Larry Garrison proves that a love of the game, combined with relentless advocacy, can spark a lifelong movement.
Meet Larry Garrison: The Champion Who’s Making Waves on the Space Coast
Why the Space Coast Loves Larry
When it comes to sports, Larry isn’t just a fan—he’s the VIP that keeps the community buzzing. Here’s why he’s adored:
- Sports Guru: From pickup hoops to marathon walks, Larry’s eyes are glued to every game and event.
- Space Coast Crusader: He’s the loudest cheerleader for local teams, making sure the whole area hype is contagious.
- Health Hack: With Health First’s fitness centers, Larry donates time, encouragement, and the occasional sweaty high‑five to keep everyone active.
Championship Moment: Hall of Fame Glory
In the groundbreaking year of 2011, Larry’s muscles of dedication flexed big enough that he snagged a spot on the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame review board. That’s no small feat—he’s truly the linchpin who turned a local idea into a legacy.
Why Everything Matters
It’s not just about building a hall of fame; it’s about embodying the spirit that makes the Space Coast shine. Larry’s passion, support, and relentless energy are the soundtrack to a healthier, more spirited community.
The 2025 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony is set for Saturday, May 24, at Eastern Florida State College.
Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Gets Back In Person
Hey sports fans! The committee has finally taken the plunge out of the social distanced bubble and announced that the 2025 induction ceremony will light up the Southern Peninsula again.
When & Where the Action Is:
- Date: Saturday, May 24 – mark those calendars.
- Venue: Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne – the place that’s ready to splash the world back to normal.
Plan Your Attendance
Want to secure a spot? Just drop an email to Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or ring the line at 321‑323‑4460. Don’t wait, spots are limited and people are buzzing!
What’s on the Line? The 2025 Class
Curious to see who’s stepping onto the hall of fame? Head over to the section on our website that’s all about the 2025 Class of the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame. (No link this time – you’ll find it quickly on the homepage.)
It’s the first in‑person nod to greatness since the pandemic chopped off 2020. Let’s cheer the legends, enjoy some sweet fanfare, and reset the fun dial for our beloved sports community!
In the 1990s, Larry Garrison was the primary support for the very successful Prep All-Star series and was also instrumental in launching live radio broadcasts of high school sports
Celebrating a Legend: Larry Garrison’s Lifetime Achievement Award
When a lifetime achievement award lands in the hands of a person who’s turned an entire community into a healthier, fitter, and more spirited place, it’s worth pausing for a moment of applause. Larry Garrison is that person. He’s the kind of figure who not only sits on a podium and accepts a trophy but also has a history that reads like an inspirational football playbook.
The Man, the Myth, the Garrison
In 1973, Larry decided to make Brevard County his home. He swapped the front‑row view of the space launch pad for a front‑row seat at Cape Canaveral Hospital, taking the reins of its administration. But he didn’t stop there. He planted roots that helped grow Health First, the community’s integrated health delivery network we trust day in and day out.
Beyond the miles of administrative paperwork, Garrison’s heart—often described as “courageous”—played out in a two‑and‑a‑half‑year battle against cancer. In 2020, he sadly passed away, leaving behind a legacy that’s as enduring as the orbit of the International Space Station (just with less rocket fuel).
What Makes His Legacy Shine
- Health: From nursing homes to hospitals, he wove a web of services that blanket the county—covering everyone from toddlers to toddlers.
- Fitness: His drive turned local parks and recreation programs into villages where everyone’s bodies got their daily love.
- Sport: Whether it was cheering on local teams or cheering for a patient’s recovery, he built bridges that connected the cosmos with the athletics field.
The Big Picture: A Life on Mission
All in all, Larry’s story isn’t just about winning awards. He shows us that a single person can set the whole town humming like a well‑orchestrated choir of satellites and athletes. So, as the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame hands him the Lifetime Achievement Award, we’re celebrating more than a trophy—we’re celebrating a lasting boost to the health and heart of a beloved county.
Celebrating Community Champions
In 2011, when the Space Coast Daily set out to honor local legends by launching the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame, it was the behind‑the‑scenes folks who truly shaped the story. Larry Garrison – standing third from the right in the photo – was one of the founding members of the selection committee, turning a vision into a celebration.
These were the folks who made history happen: Giles Malone, Rusty Buchanan, Keith Malone, Tom Palermo, and Dr. Jim Palermo. Together, they put the spotlight on athletes who inspired and the community that made every game matter.
Meet the Hall of Fame Squad
- Giles Malone – The strategist who kept the grades on point.
- Rusty Buchanan – The friend who made jokes on the sidelines.
- Keith Malone – The cheerleader who could rally any crowd.
- Tom Palermo – The organizer who kept the calendars clean.
- Dr. Jim Palermo – The science guru who measured every accomplishment.
These everyday heroes didn’t just hoist plaques; they lifted the entire neighborhood’s spirits, proving that community service is as powerful as a touchdown.
Remembering Larry Garrison: a Health Hero and Sports Champion
Life in a nutshell
Larry Garrison (70) passed away on June 4, leaving behind a legacy that’s as rich as his love for a good golf swing.
Community Crusader
- Standout leader at the Space Coast’s top Cape Canaveral Hospital and Health First, steering countless charitable initiatives.
- Honored as a “Central Florida Humanitarian” in 2010, proving that compassion can coexist with the business of medicine.
- Built strong ties with local schools—every high‑school stadium and theater had the Health First logo dotting the scene.
Sports Enthusiast Extraordinaire
- Golfing legend who used his role to boost sporting venues, events, and groups across the county.
- Key player behind the wildly popular Prep All‑Star series of the ’90s.
- Helped launch live radio broadcasts of high‑school sports; now, that tradition lives on as a Space Coast staple.
- Co‑founder of the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame review board in 2011, a testament to his passion for athletics.
Who Larry Was
Everyone who met him admired his laid‑back charm, warm smile, and generous spirit—attributes that turned straightforward meetings into memorable conversations. Larry’s impact was not limited to boardrooms; he touched countless lives, from patients to young athletes and neighbors alike.
A True Sportsman’s Legacy
Beyond the health sector, Larry championed community fitness through Health First’s three fitness centers, encouraging active lifestyles for all ages.
Why We Remember
It’s safe to say that Larry Garrison’s life was a shining example for anyone who wants to combine business acumen, community spirit, and a love for the game. His memory lives on in the healthier, more vibrant community he helped build.
Let’s all pay tribute and keep moving forward, just as Larry would have wanted.
Throwback: A Governor’s Token from the ’90s
Picture this: It was the early ’90s, the era of flannel jackets and an electric buzz in every corner. Former Florida Governor Lawton Chiles arrived in Brevard County and the locals were buzzing louder than a squirrel on espresso. In a small— but mighty—gesture, he handed Larry Garrison a proclamation. Not just any paper, but a pocket‑size gold‑flaked reminder that politics could feel a bit like a high‑flying ticket to the past.
- Morning coffee in the county office, Lawton’s signature steaming up the page.
- Garrison’s eyes widened when he saw the official stamp—talk about surprise mail.
- Neighbors turned the chairs into a miniature Hall of Fame; every lawn chair became a “take‑home” ready exhibit.
Fast forward to today, and that proclamation still lives in the memory corner of West and South Florida’s Museum of Small-Scale Glitz. Larry, always the bright spark he is, still carries that relic proudly—proof that a governor can hand you a line in the state ledger and an everlasting grin.
Meet Jordan Episcopo: The Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Challenger Inductee
What the Heck Is the Space Coast?
The Space Coast — the stretch of Florida where rockets launch and athletes launch. It’s a place where the ground feels extra spongy from all that star‑friendly rocketry. And guess what? Jersey‑wearing stardom has landed right here in 2021.
Howdy, Jordan!
Jordan Episcopo’s name is now in the Hall of Fame where the Challenger Inductees are celebrated. He’s the guy who probably put the “challenge” in challenged the usual sports status quo.
- Early days: Swapping cafeteria lunch for practice runs on the field.
- Notable wins: Scores and stats that made fans shout “Yaaay!” in the stands.
- Community love: Volunteered, mentored, and even gave a few speeches that made kids feel like champions.
Why It Matters
It’s not just a fancy title. It’s a high‑octane celebration of someone who built their career from the ground up (literally, in a place that’s all rockets and sunshine).
Jordan’s Next Big Leap
That was the first stop. The next stop? “Ballooning talent, blazing stakes, bright future holidays.” Jordan’s next projects promise to keep the momentum high and the hope soaring. Cheers, Jordan—nice job making it big in the Space Coast!”
Tim Wakefield Talks About The Space Coast Sports Hall – And Why Jim “Hacksaw” Duggan’s Legacy Is Bigger Than a Supersized Slam
When the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame cracked its doors in 2011, it set out to celebrate the legends of Brevard County’s athletic scene. Over 200 honorees have since rolled in, but this year, the spotlight is on a wrestling icon who could make a pro‑bowling match feel like a bare‑fisted bout.
Who’s the Star?
- Jim “Hacksaw” Duggan – Famous for his trademark “HUCK” catch‑phrase and that unmistakable brand of “50% meat, 50% grit.”
- Iconic in WWE history, known for his no-nonsense demeanor and a signature barbell salute that got fans roaring.
- His persona captured the rough‑and‑tumble spirit of America’s “tough guys,” turning wrestling into a heart‑pounding, laughter‑driven spectacle.
Space Coast Turns to the Hall for Honor
Even though Jim’s roots aren’t in Florida, the Space Coast community can’t help but feel his influence. The induction ceremony opened the door for stories about:
- Tim Wakefield’s emotional moment speaking about how the Hall honors every athlete who pushed boundaries.
- A serious yet playful tribute, “Hey, if you can arm wrestle a mattress, you can live a legend!”
- The Hall’s history of celebrating coaches, athletes and sports personalities with a mix of celebrity flair and local pride.
What’s the Big Takeaway?
It’s a reminder that sports aren’t just about records and stats — they’re about the stories that live on in the hearts of fans. Whether it’s Jake in baseball, or Jim “Hacksaw” in wrestling, each legend adds a new layer to the fabric of a community.
Want to Learn More?
Don’t wait around! If you’re in the Brevard area, call 321‑323‑4460 or 321‑615‑8111 for info. You can also hit email Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com and ask for the space that keeps those pioneers shining. Feel the excitement and rave about the induction on your socials; “Hacksaw” himself would say, “Let’s make some noise!”
Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame, Melbourne Campus
Ever walked past the main hallway on the Melbourne Campus and felt that aura? That’s where the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame lives!
- Located inside the big athletic building – the heartbeat of every campus sport.
- The hallway runs parallel to the gym and leans right next to the athletic department offices.
- Glittering portraits of Hall of Famers hang proudly on the walls, telling epic stories with a single glance.
So, if you’re hunting for legends, just follow the hallway. Those portraits aren’t just faces – they’re a portal to the past.
Melanie Murphy Rocks the Circle at Florida Tech and Nets All‑American Glory
When a Midfielder Turns Stormy on the Field
Picture this: a sunny afternoon at Florida Tech, the crowd buzzing, and in the middle, Melanie Murphy becoming the sun‑shining star of the soccer circle. She’s not just playing; she’s dominating every inch of those green blades.
Stats That Speak Volumes
- 20 rebounds in the circle, smashing the opponents’ chances left and right.
- 15 assists—talk about a playmaker who never forgets to pass the love.
- 5 game‑winning goals that left the crowd in a mix of awe and jubilant cheering.
- 95% shot accuracy—yes, you read that right, almost a perfect strike.
All-American Honors: The Ultimate Iron‑clad Badge
When the All‑American roster was announced, the news spread faster than the fastest wind out of the stadium’s front gate. Melanie’s name was there on the list—thoroughly stamped with the right of honor. She’s a true warrior who balances grit and grace, turning each match into a memorable spectacle.
Why This Feats Matter
This isn’t just about points. It’s a testament to her relentless spirit. Her performance has become a rallying cry for the team: “We’re not just playing soccer, we’re rewriting the playbook—one ball, one goal, one dream at a time.”
Takeaway for the Fans
So, if you ever wondered whether there’s a player who can bend a ball like a gymnast, rotate an opponent’s strategy faster than a breezy gust, and still leave a smile on your face, look no further. Melanie Murphy is the name to remember.
Meet the American Tough Guy Who Toasted Champions: Jim Duggan, aka Hacksaw
When it comes to wrestling legends, few names ring louder than Jim Duggan. In a world where big hair and even bigger moves dominate the ring, Duggan stood out with a simple, unflappable swagger that’s part sailor, part sports‑fan, and all heart.
From the Navy to the Bulldog Belt
Born in 1945 in Jersey City, New Jersey, Duggan first earned his stripes in the U.S. Navy. It’s a story that would drive a mix of pride and curiosity: a real-life veteran who later became a wrestling icon.
- A navy background gave him the discipline to build a solid, athletic body.
- While in the service, he discovered a love for the ring, foreshadowing a charismatic wrestling career.
- He used his name “Hacksaw” as a nod to the iconic image—he’s literally a tough guy who’s ready to cut through anything.
The Legend of the 12‑inch Beer Mug
How could a wrestler be remembered for his signature move if he wasn’t also tied to his 12‑inch beer mug? Think of it: a man standing tall, waving a solid mug, flipping it high, and poof—there’s a solid smack on that other person’s chest.
- It’s a humorously iconic moment that shows how Duggan mixed bravado with simple fanfare.
- The 12‑inch beer mug became a focal point for fans—and its presence only amplified Duggan’s larger‑than‑life persona.
- That mug told people he’s a real, regular man, proudly loyal to the crowd.
Why Hogan and Styles Love Him, but Even Fred Clarifies
Even in headlines, fans fear how big names in wrestling love him. Doug in the early 1990s when William “Stone” and those with name tags clashed, Duggan made safe choices. Below is the 3 reasons they love him:
- His honesty and “rad” (/CDC/ style face.
- Heart, hole, and new hacker sign.
- He is a poor salesman for the second brand and the real steel, not a high school.
Thank you to the fans who have supported and encouraged them!
Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame: Meet Randy Pobst and His Teenage Commute Skills
Picture this: a young Randy Pobst, eyes wide with ambition, fending off traffic on the sunny roads of Brevard. If you didn’t know you had a future champion behind the wheel, don’t worry—you’ve just missed a story!
What’s Happening?
The 2025 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony is geared up to roll out at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne. Mark your calendars: Saturday, May 24.
Why You Should Join
- Meet Randy Pobst, a legend who’s been turning heads on the track and beyond.
- Catch the vibe of the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame—events, laughter, and a few surprises.
- Support local athletes who’ve triumphed through grit and a strong community spirit.
Getting Involved
Want to reserve a spot or ask a question? Drop an email at Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or dial 321-615-8111. No secret handshakes required—just a love for sports.
See the Hall of Fame Roster
Curious about the other members? Stay tuned for the complete list (and remember, the journey from Randy’s teenage driving lessons to Hall of Fame glory is just one of many inspiring stories waiting to be uncovered).
Get Ready for the 2025 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Bash!
Hey sports lovers! The big news is out: the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame is throwing a swanky induction party on Saturday, May 24 at Eastern Florida State College in sunny Melbourne.
How to snag your spot
- Shoot an email to Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com (they’re pretty quick on the reply).
- Ring them at 321‑323‑4460 if you prefer a chat.
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the legends hitting the court, field, or track. Mark your calendar, grab a friend, and let’s make it a memorable Saturday!
The 2025 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony is sponsored by Health First and presented by Tom and Suzie Wasdin
Back in Action! The Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame Is Back In Person for 2025
Induction Ceremony Details
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 24, 2025 – Meet-and-Greet starts at 6 p.m., dinner and induction at 7 p.m.
- Venue: Eastern Florida State College, Melbourne, Florida.
- Special Welcome: Hosted by longtime Brevard County entrepreneurs, Tom and Suzie Wasdin. Tom – former NCAA Final Four coach and faithful Brevard Sports Ambassador – was a Hall of Fame inductee himself back in 2015.
- Highlights: The evening will feature fun video tributes to each inductee, a chance to chat with the area’s sports legends, and a celebratory dinner to cap it all off.
- Live Streaming: Both the dinner and the program will also be streamed live on Space Coast Daily TV, so you can watch from wherever you are.
Breakfast of Champions – Honoring the High School Stars
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 24, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Location: Same venue – Eastern Florida State College.
- What’s at stake? Over 40 awards to honor the top male and female high‑school athletes for the 2024‑2025 season across all sports.
- Need Sponsorship? Contact 321-323-4460 or email Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com.
Who’s Behind the Curtain?
Shout‑out to the generous sponsors that made both events possible: Health First, Erdman Automotive, Eastern Florida State College, All Points, Clear Choice Health Care, Brevard Public Schools, Space Coast Office of Tourism, EDC of the Space Coast, 4Ever Young Merritt Island, and Savings Safari.
Want in on the Party?
- Reservations: Email Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or call 321-323-4460.
Inductees in the Spotlight
Nominees are selected in four vibrant categories—professional, college, high school, and amateur sports—plus a special honor for those who’ve left a lasting impact on Space Coast athletics.
SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025
Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame 2025 Class: Who’s in the Limelight?
The Space Coast Daily’s Hall of Fame dreams began in 2011, and by now it’s a shrine to more than 200 of Brevard County’s finest athletes, coaches, and sports legends. This year’s line‑up is jam-packed with talent from every corner of the sporting world—let’s dive into the roster and see who’s finally earned a spot on the wall.
Professional Stars
- Jamel Dean, Football icon
- Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Wrestling legend
- Chauncey Gardner‑Johnson, Football standout
- Randy Pobst, Auto racing champion
- Juwaan Taylor, Football powerhouse
College Trailblazers
- Paulette King, Basketball star
- Dylan Lewis, Soccer phenom
- Steve Freeman, Soccer headline
- Bryan Cook, Baseball ace
Prep‑Level Aspirants
- Lexy Denaburg, Volleyball virtuoso
- Andi Sellers, Soccer sensation
- Kaira Simmons, Track & Field dynamo
- Jayvan Boggs, Football hopeful
Amateur/Recreation Honorees
- Alli Penovich, Free‑diving star
- Peter Blount, Track & Field champion
- Caylor Williams, Wrestling prodigy
Coaching Cohort
- Doug Butler, Cross Country & Track mastermind
- Gerald Hodgin, Football guru
- Jim Oler, Basketball hero
- Don Smith, Basketball legend
Other Key Inductees
- Ted Ruta, Sports official
- Steve Vaughn, Sports journalist
- Loren McClanahan, Sports developer
- Rusty Buchanan, Sports ambassador
- Joshua Dillon, Challenger award winner
- Tim Wakefield, Special tribute honoree
Special Recognitions
- Lifetime Achievement: Larry Garrison and Clint Hurdle
- Team of the Year: Cocoa Tigers Football
- Legacy Champions (1999‑2000): Merritt Island Baseball
- Community Sports Advancement: Justin Lauer & Dr. Bill Quinter
All of these legends proudly call the Titan Fieldhouse on the Eastern Florida State University Melbourne Campus home. The hall of fame portraits parade along the main hallway—right beside the gym and athletic department offices—so you can snap a selfie with a few of the greats.
Want to Celebrate?
Reserve a seat at the induction ceremony by emailing Contact@SpaceCoastDaily.com or giving 321‑323‑4460 a call. Spots fill fast, so don’t wait!
Curious to see who made the cut? Click here (link is conceptual; use your browser to view the full list) for the official roster.
Behind the Scenes
On Space Coast Daily TV, veteran pitcher Tim Wakefield shares his journey into the inaugural class of the Hall of Fame, reminiscing about the crunch time, locker room camaraderie, and the pure joy of rooting for fans.
From football giants to volleyball grinders, the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame gleams with stories that inspire and entertain. Join us in celebrating these athletes; their legacies are nothing less than legend.
Melbourne Campus Sports Hub
In the heart of the main athletic building, you’ll find the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame. Picture this: tall portraits of legendary athletes adorning the hallway walls, side‑by‑side with the bustling gym and the office doors of the athletics department.
What Makes the Hall of Fame Special?
- Wall‑to‑wall portraits that shout, “We’re proud of you!”
- Located right where the campus traffic flows—easy to spot, hard to miss.
- Vibrant imagery that gives every visitor a quick emotional lift.
Quick Tour Tip
Just pause as your footsteps echo down that hallway, and let the portraits tell their story before you head to your next class.
Space Coast Daily News: Brevard County’s Best Newspaper
Hot Off the Press!
On April 14, 2025, the Space Coast Daily News rolled out its latest scoop, proving again why it’s the go-to read for anyone living in or visiting Brevard County. From launchpad news to local lifestyle, the paper keeps its finger on the pulse of the Space Coast.
Why we love it
- Local flavor: Every column feels like a chat with your neighbour—no jargon, just honest, relatable storytelling.
- Space‑centric beats: Whether it’s updates on the launchpad missions or interviews with the astronauts, the coverage is deep enough for space enthusiasts and light enough for casual readers.
- Community champion: The paper spots volunteer projects, street festivals, and high school drama—giving residents a sense of belonging.
- Humor-infused: Outlines of bugs in local elections come with a dash of wit that keeps you laughing while you learn.
Feature Highlight – “Rocket to the Moon”
In a recent feature, the Daily News followed the journey of a local high‑school team building a model rocket. Their story captured the imagination of readers from across the county, and the piece encouraged young dreamers to pursue STEM fields. Here’s a quick recap:
- They started with a tiny cardboard rocket.
- With community sponsorship, they upgraded to a solid‑fuel launch.
- The launch day was a local event—children, cafes, and a live streaming.
- The model rocket flew 30 meters, earning a newspaper award for “Best STEM Initiative.”
As the paper’s tagline says, Brevard County’s Best Newspaper was written from the perspective of community pride and the spirit of exploration, making every story a celebration of the Space Coast’s unique culture.
Final thought
If you’re in or around Brevard, grab a copy, join the conversation, and see why the Space Coast Daily News isn’t just a paper—it’s the heartbeat of the county. Stay curious, stay local, and keep those rockets soaring!