UPDATE: The Marin Athletic Foundation is set to honor its 2025 Hall of Fame class this Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in San Rafael. This prestigious event celebrates a group of 10 exceptional athletes who have made significant impacts across local, state, national, and even international sports.
Each inductee has not only excelled in their athletic careers but has also played vital roles as mentors and educators, shaping the lives of countless young athletes. Among the honorees are former Marin Catholic boys basketball coach Mike Saia and Archie Williams High water polo coach Matt Swanson, both of whom have inspired generations through their dedication and leadership.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Hall of Fame, with this class recognizing athletes who graduated before 2003. The inducted athletes include:
– Linda Bowman Segre (Terra Linda, 1977)
– Dirk Correnti (San Rafael, 1972)
– Joe Ford (San Rafael, 1988)
– Ken Frost (Redwood, 1962)
– Daniel Munoz (Marin Catholic, 1996)
– Dana (Simon) Paskowitz (Terra Linda, 1990)
– Shelli (Maher) Sarchett (San Rafael, 1996)
Additionally, Don Meroff will receive special recognition for his significant contributions to cross country running in Marin County.
Linda Segre Bowman, a champion golfer, won the Junior Golf Association of Northern California Championships in 1976 and defended her title in 1977. She later enjoyed a successful professional career, including winning the Irish Open and Reno Open, and qualifying for the 2019 U.S. Senior Women’s Open.
Dirk Correnti, a dual-sport athlete excelling in football and wrestling, was key to his team’s success and later contributed to his community as a restaurateur, mentoring young athletes along the way.
Joe Ford, recognized as a multi-sport star, earned all-league honors in football and basketball, and was part of the championship-winning basketball team in 1987. His journey continued as he became a military and commercial pilot after excelling at the US Naval Academy.
Ken Frost made history as Redwood’s first All-American swimmer and an NCS champion. He continued to break records, including setting a world record in the 100 breaststroke for his age group in 2014.
Daniel Munoz led his teams to multiple championships in football, basketball, and baseball, before returning to coach at Marin Catholic and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
Shelli Maher Sarchett, honored as the MCAL Player of the Year in softball, had a stellar collegiate career at Humboldt State and has since shaped young talent as a coach.
Dana (Simon) Paskowitz achieved national recognition in water polo, winning championships and earning All-American honors, further representing her sport at the international level.
Coach Mike Saia retires after a remarkable 15-year tenure at Marin Catholic, finishing with a record of 269-180 and guiding his teams to multiple playoff appearances. His leadership has left an indelible mark on the program.
Meanwhile, Matt Swanson has built a formidable water polo program, mentoring athletes at both Archie Williams High and Sleepy Hollow Aquatics for over two decades.
Finally, Don Meroff has been a pivotal figure in cross country, founding the Marin County Middle School/Junior High Cross Country Championship and inspiring countless students to embrace fitness and competition.
This event is not just a celebration of athletic achievements but a testament to the enduring influence these individuals have had on their communities. The induction ceremony is anticipated to be a momentous occasion for all involved.
Stay tuned for live updates from the ceremony and reactions from the new Hall of Famers.
