2025 Annual Sportsmanship Dinner

During the past 70 years, the Committee has promoted sportsmanship and awarded over $335,000.00 in scholarships to deserving high school athletes. This annual dinner, held at the start of the Indiana High School Basketball Sectional Tournament, has attained status as the premiere athletic social event for the players and patrons of the Calumet Region. This year’s event marks our 71st consecutive dinner and again promises to be special.

Buoyed by the success of our last nine in-person dinners, the Committee will continue hosting our gathering at The Halls of St. George in Schererville. The dinner is scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.

This year’s keynote speaker is Gary West Side Alumni LaTroy Hawkins, Special Assistant, Baseball Operations for the Minnesota Twins . LaTroy Hawkins joined the Twins front office on November 28, 2016. Hawkins, 51, was drafted by the Twins in the seventh round of the 1991 First-Year Player Draft and played 21 seasons in the major leagues, with 11 different teams.

Hawkins’ responsibilities include, but are not limited to, contributing to the development of the organizational pitching philosophies used in the selection and development of all players. He contributes to the amateur scouting process and trade deadline preparation meetings. Additionally, Hawkins occasionally serves as analyst for Twins television broadcasts.

He pitched nine seasons in Minnesota from 1995-2003, appearing in 366 games. The Gary, IN native ranks 10th on baseball’s all-time list in games, appearing in 1,042 total over his 21-year career and 60-plus in 10 different seasons. Hawkins is one of 13 relievers in baseball history to record at least one save against all 30 teams. He was a set-up man on two-straight Twins AL Central Division championship teams in 2002 and 2003, posting an ERA of 2.13 in 65 games in ’02 and 1.86 in 74 games in ’03. In January 2018, he was inducted into the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

The cost of a single sponsorship this year remains $75.00. The price covers our meal costs as well as allows us to fund our scholarship awards. Sponsorship provides advertising in the program, a terrific meal, camaraderie, and the opportunity to hear Rick’s message to today’s athletes.

Extra guest tickets are also $75.00, the same as before. Corporate Sponsorships are available, as well.

We expect a large crowd so we advise you to commit early.

Sportsmanship and scholarships are our goal. The patronage of successful business-people, like you, helps these athletes to become better prepared for the future. The success of our dinner and the scholarships are the result of your patronage. The Committee thanks you.

Sincerely,

John J. Doherty, Chairman

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Halls of St George, 905 East Joliet Street, Schererville, United States