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Hall of Fame 2025 Gala
What is a Gala, you might ask? According to AI, a gala is a formal, often elaborate, public party or celebration, frequently used as a fundraiser for a charity or organization. The CFA, in conjunction with the US Croquet Association, did indeed hold a financially successful “Gala” on February 28, 2025, at the Charles P. Steuber National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla., in the clubhouse, on its wraparound veranda and under a gigantic white tent overlooking night-lit croquet courts to enjoy the view. The night was balmy and clear, and attendees were dressed in their most festive party attire. After having their photographs taken in front of the Step-and-Repeat by Capehart, Palm Beach’s ultimate photographer, guests tuned up quickly with great cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres created by our dedicated and beloved caterer SandyJames Fine Foods & Productions. Earlier, 20 Hall of Famers nattily attired in their redcoats attended a lively private, reception in the ballroom upstairs where the new inductees were toasted with champagne. We are delighted to report that Hall of Famer Anne Robinson’s original fantasy of having an annual coming together at each HOF Gala grew from 12 attendees at our inaugural party last year to 20 attendees this year. Those longtime friends came from far and wide and enthusiastically enjoyed their cozy reunion.
CFA Chairman David McCoy gave opening remarks and USCA President Damon Bidencope recognized the many Hall of Fame members present. Hall of Famer Rory J. Kelley presented the red jacket to Doug Grimsley whose remarkable career in croquet and his tireless dedication to the sport, both as a player and a volunteer, make him a deserving inductee into the U.S. Croquet Hall of Fame. His contributions will continue to shape the future of croquet, and his legacy as both a champion and a true ambassador will endure for generations.
Jeff Soo was presented with his red jacket by Hall of Famer Eugene Fields Young. Soo’s legacy in croquet is not only defined by his exceptional playing record but also by his unwavering dedication to promoting the sport, mentoring future generations and setting a standard of excellence both on and off the court. His induction into the U.S. Croquet Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his decades of service and passion for croquet.
The Induction Ceremony, held on the South and East Veranda, was special as always, but this year highlighted by newly inducted Doug Grimsley’s hilarious “roast” of his longtime compatriot and fellow inductee Jeff Soo, which was then followed by Soo’s comeback “roast” of Grimsley. Our sincerest congratulations were offered to them both with many standing ovations, endless laughter and love welcoming them as new members of the U.S. Croquet Hall of Fame.
The evening’s Honorary Chairs were Beverley and Randy Cardo. Gala Committee Chair, Ruth Summers, acknowledged at the ceremony and in the Program Journal her gratitude to all her 16 committee members, the NCC staff and SandyJames Fine Foods who contributed to the evening being a smashing success. Their unwavering support during the four months of preparations kept us moving forward in so many ways toward our goal. When we adjourned to our dinner tables, we found at our seats the souvenir journal of the evening’s program. Many thanks to Croquet News publisher, Dylan Goodwin, for his 46 vibrant and imaginative pages. Thanks also to the friends and families who filled the journal with congratulatory messages, colorful photos and articles. The eye-catching bright royal blue graphics on the front and back covers matched the invitations and reply cards. The theme was “Celebrating Greatness,” and the party was all of that and more. According to Summers, creating the journal involves challenging and time-consuming coordination to create the evening’s exuberant, memorable atmosphere and celebration in honor of our two new Hall of Fame inductees.
A delicious gourmet dinner was served to 134 attendees on the lawn under a lush, white oversized tent at 18 tables of various shapes and sizes … some round, some rectangular. Unique centerpieces, designed and constructed by Kathy Carpineto, staff member of SandyJames Fine Foods, simulated croquet courts, complete with miniature wickets, balls, clips and crisp green grass. Contemporary candlelight added to the warm and romantic atmosphere. Conversation was at its peak all evening and many folks danced very enthusiastically to the lively music of D.J. Kenny Mondo Productions. A classy and happy party was enjoyed by all. The CFA is grateful for the many thank you notes from those who attended and essentially said the event was indeed “A Night to Remember!”
The Hall of Fame Induction and Gala serves as the CFA’s major annual fundraiser. The money raised provides essential operating support for the Charles P. Steuber National Croquet Center. Be sure to watch for the upcoming Save The Date for the next Gala.
