Exploring the Gritty and Resilient Past of Sports in Hammond, IN

Hammond, Indiana may not be a city that is immediately associated with sports but it has a rich history of athletic events that reflect the industrious, gritty, diverse, bluecollar, resilient and determined character of its people. If you are interested in exploring this side of Hammonds past, there are several places that must feature on your itinerary.

Firstly head to The Region, an area known for producing some of the most talented basketball players in America. Here at Bishop Noll Institute (1519 Hoffman St.), you can explore the story of legendary coach John Wooden who began his coaching career here before he went on to lead UCLA Bruins to ten NCAA national championships. You can also visit Carl Biancardi Gymnasium which features posters and photographs chronicling some unforgettable matches played by local teams over the last century.

Another place worth visiting is Wolf Lake Memorial Park (2938 S Calumet Ave,) where you will find memorials dedicated to countless sporting legends hailing from Hammond including former MLB player Joe Rudi as well as NFL HallofFamer Bud Grant who was born here.

For baseball enthusiasts seeking insight into the sports turbulent past should stop by Riverside Park (2750 South Indianapolis Blvd). This park hosted Negro League games when integrated professional baseball was nonexistent; greats like Jackie Robinson playing exhibition games there during their barnstorming tours across America. There is even a statue honoring pitcher Emilio Navarro near home plate along with other tributes scattered around this historic stadium.

Finally no exploration into Hammonds sporting history would be complete without stopping at Lost Marsh Golf Course & Clubhouse (901 E 129th Street) . The course used to sit atop one of many toxic waste dumps in northwest Indiana before being transformed under Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr.s administration.. Today it is a clean, green course that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Hammond may not be on many tourist maps for sports history but it has an interesting and unique past when it comes to athletics. These suggestions allow you to delve into the bluecollar grit and determination that often characterize both the city itself and its athletic scene.

Websites:

https://www.bishopnoll.org/

http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker16153

https://lobshots.com/2013/09/19/thestoryofemilionavarronegroleaguepitcher/

Twitter:

@HammondParksRec