SPRINGFIELD, Mo--The Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame inducted it's Class of 2024 Tuesday night.

Six individuals and the Hillcrest baseball program made up the class.

And the class has a definite Missouri State feel.

Among the inductees, legendary Bears softball coach Holly hesse and long time Bears mens soccer coach Jon Leamy.

Dennis Heim played football for the Bears, and Stan Melton helped bring ice hockey to Missouri State and Springfield.

Also inducted state champion amateur golfer Christi Blasi and broadcaster Rob Evans.

The class did have a Mo State vibe.

"I'm just so honored and humbled to be included in that group. I can't even describe the feeling that I have. But to see the people there ahead of me. And to have the opportunity to join them is really unbelievable," said Heim.

"Just to know that I've had a positive impact throughout the community throughout my 36 years as a head coach at Missouri State. I feel very humbled," said Hesse.

"Holly's been here forever. Keith Guttin just stepped down, but he's still helping and working. And Bill Rowe we go on and on and on. This is a destination place," said Leamy.

News Source : https://www.ozarksfirst.com/sports/springfield-sports-hof-class-of-2024-has-bears-feel/