San Jose Honors Sports Icons, Veterans, and Community Leaders
San Jose recently buzzed with activity, celebrating its rich sporting heritage and deep community spirit. From inducting local legends into the Sports Hall of Fame to honoring veterans and investing in youth education, the city showcased its vibrant character across multiple significant events.
San Jose Sports Hall of Fame: A Heartfelt Reunion
The SAP Center in San Jose played host to the 30th annual San Jose Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony on November 6, 2025. More than 550 attendees gathered to honor five new inductees, recognized for their significant contributions to local and national sports. The event, described as a “family reunion” by Executive Director John Poch, truly embodied the spirit of San Jose, bringing together current and past honorees, family, friends, and mentors.
Meet the Class of 2025
This year’s diverse class of inductees includes a mix of trailblazers and beloved figures, each with a profound connection to San Jose:
- Landon Donovan: The legendary San Jose Earthquakes soccer star, who reflected on his time, stating, “I arrived in San Jose as a young boy, and I left as a man.” He credited the city for helping him fall back in love with the game after playing in Germany.
- Todd Clever: Known as “Captain America” for USA Rugby, Clever developed his love for the sport and honed his skills while playing for the College Park club in San Jose.
- Afsoon Roshanzamir Johnston: A pioneering figure in women’s wrestling, Johnston famously challenged norms by joining the boys wrestling team at Independence High School.
- Eddie Buller: Longtime football coach at Oak Grove High, Buller amassed an impressive 214-29-3 record and secured five CCS titles, mentoring future NFL players like Tim Ryan.
- Mark Wilson: The retired San Jose Giants General Manager, Wilson is historically credited with inventing the popular “beer batter” promotion, a fan favorite that helped draw crowds to see future San Francisco Giants stars.
The ceremony also celebrated future stars, recognizing high school athletes Quinten Marsh (Valley Christian High baseball) and Nicole Steiner (Los Gatos High basketball/track), amateur athletes Nick Nash (SJSU football) and Emilia Sjostrand (SJSU track and field), and Special Olympian of the Year, Michael Aguilar, who received a well-deserved standing ovation.
| Inductee | Sport/Role | San Jose Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Landon Donovan | Soccer Player | San Jose Earthquakes star, credited city for personal and professional growth. |
| Todd Clever | Rugby Player | Fell in love with rugby playing for the College Park club. |
| Afsoon Roshanzamir Johnston | Wrestling Pioneer | Stood up to the challenge on Independence High’s boys wrestling team. |
| Eddie Buller | Football Coach | Led Oak Grove High to multiple championships, coached future NFL players. |
| Mark Wilson | Baseball General Manager | San Jose Giants GM, innovated the “beer batter” promotion. |
Community Spotlight: Honoring Service and Fostering Growth
Veterans Day Celebrations Across the County
This year’s Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, marks the 107th annual celebration in downtown San Jose. The parade, kicking off from SAP Center at noon, will be preceded by an 11 a.m. opening ceremony at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, featuring U.S. Marines combat veteran A.J. Pasciuti as grand marshal. Cupertino also hosts its 18th annual celebration at its veterans memorial, unique for being the first in the nation to honor Afghanistan war veterans. The 11 a.m. ceremony at 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd. will include remarks by retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Rob Ostenberg and Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen, alongside musical performances.
ASML Invests in Silicon Valley’s Youth
Semiconductor firm ASML recently presented a significant $900,000 grant to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley at the Alviso Youth Center. This extends a prior $1.4 million grant, emphasizing ASML’s deep commitment to promoting STEM education for elementary school children. Boys & Girls Clubs CEO Steve Wymer lauded ASML’s focus on tangible outcomes and accountability, while ASML’s Verona Nunez, a former Boys & Girls Clubs kid herself, highlighted the company’s hands-on mentorship and dedication to creating lasting impact for youth equity and education.
Local Literary & Arts Scene
Mark your calendars for November 15, as NBC News correspondent Vicky Nguyen discusses her memoir ‘Boat Baby’ at the San Jose Public Library Foundation’s Signature Author Event at Blanco Urban. Santa Clara County Supervisor Betty Duong will lead the conversation, offering a unique local perspective on shared experiences. Additionally, the Flash Fiction Forum wraps up its year on November 12 at Works/San Jose gallery, inviting local writers to share their works live and online, celebrating the vibrant literary community.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Jose Events
- When was the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame ceremony held?
The 30th class induction ceremony took place on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the SAP Center. - Who were the main inductees this year?
The 2025 class included Landon Donovan (soccer), Todd Clever (rugby), Afsoon Roshanzamir Johnston (wrestling), Eddie Buller (football coach), and Mark Wilson (San Jose Giants GM). - What local events are planned for Veterans Day?
San Jose will host its 107th annual parade and ceremony downtown, and Cupertino will hold its 18th annual celebration at its veterans memorial, both on November 11, 2025. - How is ASML supporting local youth?
ASML recently provided a $900,000 grant to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley, extending their significant support for STEM education programs. - Are there any upcoming literary events in San Jose?
Yes, NBC News correspondent Vicky Nguyen will speak at the San Jose Public Library Foundation event on Nov 15, and the Flash Fiction Forum holds its final event of the year on Nov 12 at Works/San Jose.
These recent events underscore San Jose’s enduring dedication to recognizing excellence, supporting its community, and preserving its unique local heritage, encouraging residents to engage and celebrate the city’s ongoing vibrancy.
San Jose Honors Sports Icons
