The inaugural 9th Region baseball Hall of Fame Class was inducted on Tuesday night in between regional tournament semifinal games at Thomas More Stadium in Florence.
Sixteen members were named to the initial class, formed by the Northern Kentucky Baseball Coaches Association. They were announced on Tuesday and presented with a commemorative Louisville Slugger bat with the color of the school they coached or played at along with their name and 2026 inaugural Ninth Region Hall of Fame.
“This Hall of Fame was formed to recognize the players, coaches, and umpires whose impact on the game has shaped generations,” the NKBCA said. “From dominant athletes and championship‑winning coaches to respected officials who upheld the integrity of the sport, the Ninth Region has been home to countless individuals who elevated baseball in Northern Kentucky. Their stories deserve to be remembered, shared, and celebrated.”
The 16-member class is:
1. Tom Ries – Newport
2. Stan Arnzen – Newport
3. Jim Connor – Newport / NewCath
4. Frank Pangallo – NewCath
5. Bob Barton – Holmes
6. Gary Sargent – Holmes
7. Jim Caldwell – NewCath
8. Leo Groeschen – NewCath
9. Jim Cutter – Newport
10. Chris Hook – Lloyd
11. Brandon Berger – Beechwood
12. Ray Brown – Newport
13. Grady Brown – Newport
14. Leo Foster – Holmes
15. Chris Curley – Beechwood
16. Bill Krumpelbeck – Covington Catholic
Photos from the event below provided by Charles Bolton:
