The Chico Sports Hall of Fame started more than half of a century ago, in 1973.

It was formed through a joint effort of the Chico Chamber of Commerce and the Northern California Sports Boosters Association to honor local people for their contribution to sports.

The chamber eventually gave up its sponsorship and the Northern California Sports Boosters dissolved into separate support groups for local schools.

The Enterprise-Record took over the banquet in 1984 and continues to sponsor the event. A special Hall of Fame committee chooses the inductees and the schools choose their outstanding athletes.

Charter members of the Hall of Fame include Lloyd “Tommy” Costar, Larry Gillick, George Maderos, Ray Orrick and Jane Shurmer.

After tonight’s banquet, 168 people will have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Athletes are not considered for membership in the Hall of Fame until five years after their participation has ended or until after five years of continuous contribution for nonathletes.

Only athletes who attend Chico schools, including Butte College, or who are from the Chico community are eligible. A non-Chicoan is eligible only if she or he contributes in some way directly to the Chico sports scene.