2024 HOF CLASS

This landmark event saw the induction of the Hall of Fame's first five honorees: Gilbert Martinez, Belinda Calhoun, Jeremy Jones, Randy Goettlicher, and Bob Vanover. Each of these individuals has made exceptional contributions to the sport, leaving an indelible mark on Texas billiards.

A particularly emotional moment occurred as Bob Vanover, who passed away before the ceremony, was honored posthumously. His brother, Gary Vanover, delivered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the finesse and dedication that have come to define the Vanover family legacy. Gilbert Martinez, presented by Omega Mike, expressed deep gratitude, sharing a poignant moment as he wished his late parents could have been there to witness his induction. Belinda Calhoun, celebrated for her distinguished career as both a Texas pool player and WPBA professional, was recognized for her lasting impact on the sport.

Randy Goettlicher, a highly respected instructor, expressed immense pride in his induction, stating, “For an instructor to be inducted into the Hall of Fame is a lifetime achievement.” Jeremy Jones, former captain of Team USA’s Mosconi Cup squad and current billiard broadcaster, said, “It means everything to be part of the Texas Hall of Fame. It’s a true honor in every sense.”

The ceremony was filled with moving speeches and tributes, each one celebrating the incredible achievements and unwavering dedication of the inductees. The evening not only honored their individual accomplishments but also highlighted the enduring legacy of billiards in Texas.

Kevin Welling, President of the Texas Billiards Hall of Fame, Inc., shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “We are proud to honor these outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on the sport of billiards. Their passion, skill, and dedication have set a high bar for future generations.” In his opening remarks, Welling outlined the organization's future plans, including youth camps that will link academic concepts with billiard skills, and the launch of Hall of Fame city championships across Texas, culminating in a state championship. This initiative will crown a true state champion who represents their city with pride.

Welling, who is also the producer and director of The Tale of Texas Pool, a forthcoming sports film about billiards, filmed the induction ceremony as part of the movie’s storyline. All of the inductees will appear in the film, sharing their insights on the history of pool in Texas. The film is slated for release on major streaming platforms this Christmas.

For those wishing to support the mission of the Texas Billiards Hall of Fame, membership and donation opportunities are now available on the organization's website. The Hall of Fame is committed to honoring the sport's rich history in Texas and looks forward to future events and continued community engagement.