News Summary

The Southern Connecticut Diamond Club has announced the launch of the Dan Gooley Legends Award, aimed at honoring significant contributions to baseball history in Greater New Haven. This annual award will be presented at the Hall of Fame Banquet, with the inaugural recipient being respected former Foran High School coach Ken Walker. The ceremony is scheduled for October 23, 2025, at The Woodwinds in Branford, and will celebrate the legacy of baseball in the community.

Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Launches Dan Gooley Legends Award

The Southern Connecticut Diamond Club, Inc. is excited to announce the establishment of the Dan Gooley Legends Award, a special recognition aimed at honoring those who have made significant contributions to the rich history of baseball in Greater New Haven. The award will become a valued part of the Diamond Club’s traditions, being presented annually at the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony.

A Significant Honor

Each year, the award will go to a noteworthy member of the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Hall of Fame, celebrating individuals who have made a lasting impact on the game and community. The inaugural recipient of the Dan Gooley Legends Award is none other than the well-respected former Foran High School coach, Ken Walker. This is a fitting tribute as Walker’s dedication to the sport and his players left a profound legacy in the region.

Dan Gooley: A Legacy in Coaching

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the man after whom this award is named. Dan Gooley, a notable figure in New Haven baseball, has spent decades shaping young athletes at both Quinnipiac University and the University of Hartford. Gooley co-founded the Greater New Haven Diamond Club back in 1980 and later helped establish the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club in 2005. His contributions to the sport include holding the record for strikeouts at Quinnipiac University, with an impressive total of 316, alongside coaching achievements that resulted in 439 victories during his tenure at Quinnipiac and another 101 wins while at Hartford. He has earned places in the Halls of Fame for both institutions, further solidifying his status as a legendary coach.

Honoring Ken Walker

Now, back to the inaugural honoree. Ken Walker, a standout player himself, is remembered as a dedicated coach at Foran High School from 1986 to 2003, and again from 2011 to 2012. Over the years, Walker racked up an impressive 279 wins at the helm of the baseball team. His accolades extended beyond baseball; he also coached the Foran football team for six seasons, proudly leading them to a CIAC Class M state championship in 1994.

Sadly, Ken Walker passed away unexpectedly in 2012 at the age of 60 but not without leaving a mark that lasts to this day. In recognition of his exemplary contributions to the sport and the community, Foran’s varsity baseball field has been named in his honor—a true testament to his impact on the lives he touched.

Looking Ahead

The excitement doesn’t end here; the 17th Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony, where the Dan Gooley Legends Award will be presented to Walker, is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, 2025. This celebratory event will take place at The Woodwinds in Branford, and is sure to be a heartwarming occasion to connect with fellow baseball enthusiasts and honor the greats like Walker who paved the way for future generations.

Get Ready!

Mark the calendars! More details regarding the full Hall of Fame Class and ticket sales will be unveiled in August. This is the perfect opportunity for fans and community members to come together, reminisce about cherished baseball memories, and honor the legends of the game who made an indelible print in the history of Greater New Haven baseball.

So, whether you’re a former player, a parent, or just a passionate baseball fan, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Let’s celebrate the legends of yesterday, while inspiring the stars of tomorrow!

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