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28 CAVALIER CORNER & VAF NEWS NOTABLES Since the traditional Step Up to the Plate event to support Virginia Baseball could not be held this winter, the VAF hosted a smaller dinner on Jan. 20 at Boar's Head. The event was a true Virginia Baseball family gather- ing. Coaches and staff, the current team, the 2023 team, and parents of the players gath- ered to celebrate the program's remarkable run to the 2023 College World Series and the 2024 induction of several student-athlete alumni into the Hall of Fame. Head Coach Brian O'Connor emceed the program and proudly connected last year's accomplish- ments to the excitement for the 2024 season. For the first time in the program's history, the Iron Cavalier Challenge, a grueling chal- lenge that all players must undertake through- out fall training, resulted in two ties. Position players Jacob Ference and Henry Ford, and pitchers Aiden Teel and Bradley Hodges were welcomed onto the stage to receive their hard-earned awards. The 2024 recipient of the Iron Cavalier Courage Award was awarded to Scott Hamric. The award, now in its third year, is given to an alumnus of the program who has displayed selflessness, courage, and service throughout their life. Hamric was a baseball walk-on, JV basketball team member and McIntire School of Commerce graduate. He spent his career in various marketing roles with prominent companies such as Fruit of the Loom, Dial Soap, and Kellogg and now in retirement serves as the president of S.A.F.E. Space. Sports have always been a big part of his life and while staying active with volleyball, he broke his finger and learned he had a rare tumor which has returned eight times. After losing two of his fingers and battling through years of adversity, he picked up tennis and still exudes a "never give up" attitude. Hamric continuously savors his blessings, passion- ately follows the Hoos and is a well-deserving recipient of the award. The seventh Virginia Baseball Hall of Fame class was introduced by Coach O'Connor and former head coach Dennis Womack. Inductees infielder George Priftis (1980-83), first baseman Jon Benick (1999-2001) and outfielder David Stone (1999-2001) were featured in photo and video highlights, ac- cepted their plaques and provided remarks about their Virginia careers. The final celebration of the evening focused on the 2023 team's accomplish- ments and sixth appearance in the College World Series. Most members of the team returned for the special event. Starting with the first-years, each class was invited to the stage to provide a unique and personal element to the program. Players shared inspiring stories about teammates before presenting a commemorative College World Series ring to him. At the conclusion of each class, the last player to receive a ring provided remarks on behalf of his class about what the 2023 season, teammates, coaches and experience meant to them. Coach O'Connor and the current program hope to see you at The Dish as the 2024 season is underway. Baseball Hall Of Fame Recap