Celebrating Wisconsin’s Athletic Excellence
The Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame preserves Wisconsin’s rich history of athletic excellence, celebrates the values and virtues of sports and honors the principles of teamwork, leadership and character.
Hall of Fame Walkway
The Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame Walkway presented by Network Health celebrates Wisconsin’s greatest athletes and moments. Inductees are honored with bronze plaques along the walkway and featured on an LED billboard displaying videos of Hall of Famers and iconic moments in Wisconsin sports. The walkway is located on North Vel R. Phillips Avenue in Milwaukee’s downtown sports and entertainment district adjacent to the UWM Panther Arena.
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
The Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony honors exceptional athletes, coaches, and contributors who have made a lasting impact on the state’s rich sports history. It’s a celebratory event that brings together the community to recognize outstanding achievements and preserve Wisconsin’s athletic legacy.
Athlete & Business Leadership Speaker Series
This event brings together Hall of Fame athletes and top Milwaukee-area business executives for an exclusive experience. Attendees will gain leadership insights from athletics to the C-suite, along with a valuable opportunity to connect with peers through high-level networking.
Hall of Fame Podcast
We kicked off the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame Podcast with Olympic legend and Hall of Famer Bonnie Blair before a great crowd at Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen in downtown Milwaukee. Bonnie shared her journey to five gold medals and one bronze, plus a preview of speedskaters to watch as the 2026 Olympics approach.
Find our first episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
Hall of Fame Golf Outing
The Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame golf outing is a premier fundraising event that brings together athletes, business leaders, and sports fans for a day of golf and camaraderie. Participants enjoy a fun, competitive round while supporting the Hall of Fame’s mission to celebrate and preserve Wisconsin’s rich sports legacy.
Click here to register to golf or learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Meet the 2025 Inductees
Mason Crosby (Left)
Mason Crosby is one of the most accomplished kickers in NFL history, spending 16 seasons with the Green Bay Packers and becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Known for his consistency and clutch performances, he played a key role in the Packers’ Super Bowl XLV championship and set multiple team and league records. Crosby is widely respected for his longevity, leadership, and impact on the game both on and off the field.
Joe Thomas (Middle)
Joe Thomas is a legendary offensive lineman who built a Hall of Fame career with the Cleveland Browns and is widely regarded as one of the best left tackles in NFL history. A Wisconsin native and former University of Wisconsin standout, Thomas earned multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors while setting a standard for durability and excellence. His induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes his outstanding achievements and lasting impact on football and the state’s sports legacy.
Ernie Johnson (Right)
Ernie Johnson is a highly respected sports broadcaster known for his long-standing role as the host of Inside the NBA on TNT. A Wisconsin native, Johnson has become one of the most trusted voices in sports media, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his professionalism and storytelling. His induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame honors his significant contributions to sports broadcasting and his lasting connection to Wisconsin’s athletic legacy.
