The Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2026 and shared updated details for this year’s induction banquet.
During a media gathering, Hall of Fame representatives expressed appreciation for local media support and outlined changes for the upcoming event. The 2026 induction banquet will be held Saturday, June 20, which falls on Father’s Day weekend. Organizers noted the date is later in the calendar than usual.
Event officials also announced an expanded pre-banquet social and media session. The media interview and photo period will now begin at 4:30 p.m., 30 minutes earlier than in previous years, allowing approximately one hour and 45 minutes for interviews and photographs prior to the banquet.
The Hall of Fame is entering its 21st year of operation, having been established in 2005. There was no class inducted in 2020. With the addition of six new inductees this year, the total number of members will reach 130. The inaugural class included 10 inductees, with six honored annually since that time.
Class of 2026 Inductees
Board President Connie Davidson announced the following inductees for the Class of 2026:
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Kevin Blue – Alexandria High School football, basketball and baseball; later played football at Jacksonville State University.
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Mac Campbell – Alexandria High School football standout.
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Gena Higginbotham Cleveland – Pleasant Valley High School volleyball and softball; later played volleyball at Jacksonville State University.
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Eddie Isbell – Anniston High School and Jacksonville State University baseball.
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Carolyn Mattews – Served in coaching roles at Anniston, Jacksonville and Weaver High Schools in volleyball, track and field, gymnastics and cheer.
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Eric Stringer – Oxford High School basketball; later continued his career at Auburn University.
According to Hall of Fame representatives, several of this year’s inductees were first-year nominees. Officials emphasized the importance of public participation in the nomination process.
Organizers reported a strong number of new nominations in the most recent cycle, crediting increased awareness efforts. Once an individual is nominated, the nomination remains active and does not need to be resubmitted each year, though additional supporting materials may be added.
The deadline to submit nominations for consideration for the Class of 2027 is February 1 of next year. Anyone may submit a nomination except current members of the Hall of Fame’s 15-member board of directors. Nomination forms are available online and through local schools, and board members can also assist individuals in obtaining the necessary paperwork.
Board members in attendance at the announcement included Secretary Jody Whaley and Wayne Cardin.
Hall of Fame officials encouraged community members to attend the June banquet and continue recognizing individuals who have contributed significantly to athletics in Calhoun County over the years.
