California State University Northridge Athletics
CSUN Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Class
8/20/2026 11:30:00 AM | General
NORTHRIDGE, Calif. -- California State University, Northridge Athletics will welcome a national championship team and five outstanding individuals to the 2026 CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame class this fall.
Those joining the induction class are Bobby Braswell (men's basketball), Valerie Brisco-Hooks (track and field), Katie Holloway Bridge (women's basketball), Dennis Gilbert (special inductee), Scott Sharts (baseball), and the 1975 national champion men's track and field team.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place at Porter Valley Country Club in Porter Ranch (19216 Singing Hills Drive) on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026. The event is expected to start at 6 p.m.
"CSUN Athletics has an incredibly rich history, and we're honored to induct these proud Matadors into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame," said Director of Athletics Ryan Swartwood. "Bobby Braswell, Valerie Brisco-Hooks, Dennis Gilbert, Katie Holloway Bridge, Scott Sharts, and the 1975 CSUN Men's Track and Field Team are very deserving of this recognition, and we're excited to celebrate them in November."
Bobby Braswell, Men's Basketball
Few individuals have had a greater impact on the success and growth of CSUN Men's Basketball than Braswell, whose remarkable 17-year tenure as head coach helped elevate the Matadors to unprecedented heights.
A proud CSUN alumnus who graduated in 1985, Braswell returned to his alma mater in 1996 and guided the Matadors through one of the most successful eras in program history. Serving as head coach from 1996-2013, he became the second-longest tenured head coach in CSUN Men's Basketball history and established himself as the winningest Division I coach the program has ever known.
"I am extremely blessed to have had the privilege of coaching so many remarkable young men over the years," Braswell said. "I was blessed with exceptional assistant coaches and staff. None of this would have been possible without their dedication, commitment, and hard work. I am extremely grateful, but the true glory belongs to God. This is only possible because of Him!"
Braswell amassed 251 Division I victories during his career at CSUN, the most in school history, while also recording a program-best 140 conference wins. Under his leadership, the Matadors captured three conference championships, beginning with the 2000-01 Big Sky Conference title and followed by back-to-back Big West Conference championships in 2007-08 and 2008-09. His teams also secured conference tournament championships in 2001 and 2009.
Perhaps most notably, Braswell guided CSUN to the first two NCAA Division I Tournament appearances in school history. The Matadors earned their inaugural NCAA Tournament berth in 2001 before returning to college basketball's biggest stage in 2009 after a memorable championship season.
The 2000-01 campaign remains one of the finest in program history, as Braswell led CSUN to a Division I program-record 22 victories. His teams recorded three 20-win seasons overall, consistently positioning the Matadors among the top programs in their conferences.
Braswell's success earned him back-to-back Big West Coach of the Year honors in 2008 and 2009, further cementing his reputation as one of the most accomplished coaches in CSUN Athletics history.
Through his leadership, competitive excellence, and commitment to student-athlete success, Bobby Braswell left an enduring legacy on CSUN Men's Basketball. His impact on the program and the university continues to be felt today, making him a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Braswell is the 16th head coach to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining fellow men's basketball head coach Pete Cassidy who was inducted in 2004.
Valerie Brisco-Hooks, Women's Track and Field
Brisco-Hooks' accomplishments on the track elevated her to the highest levels of international competition and established her as one of the most decorated athletes in CSUN history.
Brisco-Hooks was a key member of CSUN's historic women's track and field program during one of the most successful periods in school history. In 1979, she helped lead the Matadors to the AIAW National Championship under legendary head coach Barbara Swerkes, contributing to one of the premier teams in collegiate track and field.
That same season, Brisco-Hooks captured the AIAW national championship in the 200-meter dash and as a member of the 880-yard relay team. Her outstanding performances earned her All-America honors in the 200m, 440-yard relay, and 880-yard relay, cementing her place among the nation's elite collegiate sprinters.
More than four decades later, Brisco-Hooks' name remains in the CSUN record book. She continues to hold the school record in the outdoor 200-meter dash after posting a time of 23.16 seconds in 1979, a mark that has stood the test of time as one of the program's most impressive achievements.
"Being inducted into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame is an incredible honor," Brisco-Hooks said. "Northridge played such an important role in my career, and the experiences, lessons, and relationships I gained there helped prepare me for the Olympic stage. I'm deeply grateful for everything CSUN gave me and proud to be part of a community that continues to inspire athletes to dream big and believe in themselves."
Following her collegiate career, Brisco-Hooks became one of the most accomplished Olympians in United States track and field history. At the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, she captured three gold medals, winning the 200m, 400m, and 4x400-meter relay to become one of the stars of the Games. She later added a silver medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul as a member of the United States' 4x400-meter relay team.
Her international success also included two Pan American Games gold medals, first in the 4x100-meter relay in 1979 and later in the 4x400-meter relay in 1987, further showcasing her longevity and excellence on the world stage.
In 1987, Brisco-Hooks returned to Northridge and established another lasting mark by setting the Matador Track Complex record in the 400 meters with a time of 50.30 seconds, a performance befitting one of the greatest athletes ever to compete for CSUN.
From national champion to Olympic gold medalist, Valerie Brisco-Hooks has represented CSUN with distinction throughout her career. Her remarkable accomplishments, both as a Matador and on the international stage, have secured her legacy as one of the most influential figures in the history of CSUN Athletics and a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Brisco-Hooks is the fifth CSUN women's track and field student-athlete to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining Darci Arreola-Lange (1998), Alice Brown (1986), Jacqueline Hansen (1998), and Pam Spencer-Marquez (1985).
Dennis Gilbert, Special Inductee
Gilbert's impact extends far beyond the playing field, combining success in business, professional sports, and philanthropy into a career defined by innovation, leadership, and service.
Gilbert attended CSUN from the fall of 1969 through the spring of 1971 before embarking on a professional journey that would make him one of the most influential figures in sports business and financial services.
"I'm truly honored to be included in the 2026 CSUN Hall of Fame class," said Gilbert. "CSUN played an important role in my life, and to be recognized by a university that means so much to me is incredibly special. I'm grateful for the opportunity and proud to be part of this distinguished class."
Today, Gilbert serves as the CEO and founder of The Gilbert Group, a nationally recognized firm specializing in wealth protection and estate planning for high-net-worth individuals and families in sports, entertainment, and business. Throughout his distinguished career, Gilbert has consistently ranked among the top one percent of life insurance professionals in the United States.
His path to success began as a minor league baseball player before he transitioned into the insurance and financial planning industry. Gilbert became a respected educator in estate planning, teaching continuing education courses to members of the California CPA Society. Through those relationships, he built a prestigious entertainment-industry clientele and developed a reputation for helping clients protect and preserve wealth through innovative insurance strategies.
Recognizing that professional athletes could benefit from the same expertise, Gilbert expanded his career into sports representation and founded the Beverly Hills Sports Council. Under his leadership, the agency quickly became one of baseball's most influential organizations, revolutionizing player contracts and compensation. Gilbert personally negotiated more than 1,000 professional contracts and helped reshape Major League Baseball's salary structure by securing groundbreaking agreements for stars including George Brett, Barry Bonds, Mike Piazza, Ricky Henderson, Curt Schilling, Trevor Hoffman, Bobby Bonilla, Jose Canseco, Danny Tartabull, Brady Anderson, and Joe Magrane, among many others. In 1999, he sold his interest in the agency after establishing it as one of the premier sports representation firms in the country.
Gilbert's influence in the financial services industry continued to grow, leading to the creation of The Gilbert Group in 2009. The firm quickly became one of the nation's leading insurance and estate-planning organizations, and Gilbert remains a sought-after speaker and educator for financial, legal, and accounting professionals across the country.
Even as his business interests expanded, Gilbert maintained a close connection to professional baseball. In 2001, he joined the Chicago White Sox as special assistant to Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, a position he continues to hold today. In that role, Gilbert provides guidance on player contracts, personnel decisions, scouting matters, and a variety of organizational business initiatives.
Gilbert's legacy is equally defined by his commitment to giving back. As co-founder and chairman of the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation (PBSF), he helped create a vital support network for baseball scouts and their families facing financial hardship. Under his leadership, the organization raised more than $1 million in assistance and advocacy efforts. Gilbert also spearheaded the development of an inner-city baseball field at Los Angeles Southwest College, creating opportunities for young athletes through Major League Baseball's RBI Youth Program.
Raised in Gardena, Gilbert has maintained strong ties to his community and has dedicated significant resources to expanding opportunities for underserved youth. His philanthropic efforts include the creation of Dennis Gilbert Field at Los Angeles Southwest College and years of leadership supporting baseball development programs throughout Southern California.
Throughout his career, Gilbert has earned numerous honors recognizing both his professional excellence and humanitarian contributions. He serves on Major League Baseball's Salary Arbitration and Player Development Committees and has been recognized as "Man of the Year" by the Anti-Defamation League. His accolades also include a Lifetime Achievement Award from Gardena High School, induction into the Los Angeles Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, and distinction as the first inductee into the Los Angeles City College Hall of Fame. In 2016, Major League Baseball's Baseball Assistance Team honored Gilbert with its Humanitarian Award for his decades of service and philanthropy.
Together with his wife, Cindy, Dennis Gilbert has built a legacy of leadership, generosity, and impact that has touched countless lives throughout the worlds of sports, business, and community service.
Gilbert is the 16th CSUN special inductee inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, and the first since Dorothea "Granny" Heitz was inducted in 2010.
Katie Holloway Bridge, Women's Basketball
Holloway Bridge's legacy is one of excellence, perseverance, and achievement at both the collegiate and international levels.
One of the most accomplished Paralympians in American history, Holloway Bridge was a member of the Matador women's basketball program from 2004-08. She established herself as one of the most efficient and impactful players in school history. Throughout her career, she earned numerous conference honors while helping elevate the success of the program during her four seasons in Northridge.
"I am so honored to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame," Holloway Bridge said. "I have always been a proud CSUN Women's Basketball Alum; it was one of the most influential times of my life, and the teammates and coaches are still a part of my life today. I could not be more excited to celebrate with everyone!"
Holloway Bridge's list of accolades began with selection to the Big West All-Freshman Team in 2004-05. She was named Big West Sixth Woman of the Year in both 2005-06 and 2006-07, adding Honorable Mention All-Big West recognition during the 2006-07 season. As a senior in 2007-08, she earned second-team All-Big West honors, capping a distinguished collegiate career.
Her name remains prominently featured throughout the CSUN record book. Holloway Bridge ranks second in program history in career field-goal percentage at .532, fifth in career blocked shots with 110, and 10th in free-throw attempts with 352. She also owns the top two single-season field-goal percentage marks in school history, shooting a remarkable .653 during the 2006-07 campaign and .554 in 2007-08.
While her accomplishments at CSUN were impressive, Holloway Bridge's athletic journey reached even greater heights on the international stage. As a member of the United States Women's Sitting Volleyball National Team, she has become one of the most decorated Paralympians in the sport's history.
Holloway Bridge earned her first Paralympic medal at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, capturing a silver medal with Team USA. She followed with another silver medal at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London before helping lead the United States to an unprecedented era of dominance. Holloway-Bridge won Paralympic gold medals in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, Tokyo in 2020, and Paris in 2024, becoming a three-time Paralympic champion and one of the most accomplished athletes ever to represent CSUN on the global stage.
Her success has extended beyond competition and into the classroom. Holloway Bridge earned Big West All-Academic Team honors for three consecutive years from 2005-2008, demonstrating the same commitment to excellence academically that she displayed athletically.
From her record-setting performances in a Matador uniform to her remarkable achievements representing the United States around the world, Katie Holloway Bridge has exemplified determination, resilience, and competitive excellence throughout her career.
Holloway Bridge is the fourth CSUN women's basketball student-athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining fellow inductees Patricia De La Riva (2001), Channon Fluker (2025), and Ofa Tulikihihifo (2018).
Scott Sharts, Baseball
Few student-athletes have left a mark on the CSUN Baseball program quite like Scott Sharts, whose unique ability to excel as both a power hitter and dominant pitcher made him one of the most versatile players in program history.
A two-way standout for CSUN from 1990-91, Sharts lettered as both a first baseman and right-handed pitcher, establishing himself as one of the premier players in the nation during his time in Northridge. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Matadors reach unprecedented success, including a memorable 1990 season in which CSUN advanced to the NCAA Division II Championship Series and finished as national runners-up.
He will become the third member of the Sharts family in the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining his uncle, Paul Edmondson who was inducted in 1981 and his brother, Steve Sharts who was inducted in 2018 as a member of the 1984 baseball team.
"I'm honored and very humbled to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame," Sharts said. "I am grateful to my coaches, my teammates – forever my Dors brothers – and my family who have supported me through the years.
"Finally, I am excited to join the many distinguished individuals in the CSUN Hall of Fame, especially my uncle, Paul Edmondson, and my brother Steve Sharts," he added. "Thank you for this tremendous honor."
Sharts' accomplishments at the plate remain among the most impressive in school history. He is tied for first all-time in career home runs with 51 and continues to hold the CSUN single-season record with 29 home runs. His offensive production helped redefine the program's record book, and he currently appears on 11 different top-10 career and single-season statistical lists, a testament to his all-around impact and consistency.
While his power-hitting prowess garnered national attention, Sharts was equally dominant on the mound. During his career, he recorded the second-most complete games in a single season with 13 and struck out 139 batters in a season, the third-highest total in school history. His ability to excel in both roles made him one of the most valuable players in collegiate baseball and a difficult matchup for opponents in every phase of the game.
The combination of his offensive and pitching success earned Sharts widespread recognition. He was a two-time All-American and received All-California Collegiate Athletic Association First Team and All-District honors, establishing himself among the nation's elite collegiate players.
Following his standout career at CSUN, Sharts was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 10th round of the 1991 Major League Baseball Draft. He went on to play four seasons of professional baseball, continuing the career that began with his remarkable success as a Matador.
More than three decades after his playing career, Sharts' name remains firmly embedded throughout the CSUN Baseball record book. His contributions to one of the most successful teams in program history, combined with his extraordinary achievements as both a hitter and pitcher, have secured his place among the greatest players ever to wear a Matador uniform.
Sharts is the 19th CSUN Baseball student-athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and the first since Larry Ramirez in 2012.
The 1975 CSUN Men's Track and Field Team
The 1975 CSUN Men's Track & Field team achieved one of the greatest accomplishments in university athletics history, capturing a national championship and cementing its place among the elite collegiate teams of its era. In recognition of its historic success and legacy, the 1975 Men's Track & Field team has been selected for induction into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Led by head coach Cliff Abel, the Matadors assembled a remarkable season that culminated with the 1975 NCAA Division II National Championship. CSUN's national title represented the pinnacle of a dominant campaign that also included a California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Championship, showcasing the team's excellence at both the conference and national levels.
The championship squad was powered by outstanding individual performances throughout the season. The Matadors produced two NCAA individual national champions, with Steve Albright claiming the national title in the shot put and Ed Chaidez capturing the championship in the six-mile run. Their victories provided crucial points in CSUN's march to the national crown and highlighted the team's remarkable balance across multiple disciplines.
Depth proved to be one of the defining characteristics of the 1975 team. CSUN athletes earned All-America honors in 10 different events, demonstrating the breadth of talent that made the Matadors one of the most complete teams in the country. Whether in the field events, distance races, or other track disciplines, the Matadors consistently delivered championship-level performances throughout the season.
In addition to its national and conference titles, the team established five school records, further underscoring the exceptional caliber of athletes who comprised the championship roster. Those performances not only fueled the team's success in 1975 but also set standards that would inspire future generations of Matador student-athletes.
The 1975 NCAA championship remains one of the defining moments in CSUN Athletics history. Through a combination of outstanding coaching, individual excellence, and extraordinary team depth, the Matadors achieved a level of success that continues to be celebrated more than five decades later.
For capturing a national championship, winning a conference title, producing NCAA champions and All-Americans, and establishing a legacy of excellence that endures today, the 1975 CSUN Men's Track & Field team is a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
The 1975 men's track and field team is the eighth CSUN team and the first track and field team inducted into the Hall of Fame.
For more information on the CSUN Hall of Fame, please contact Andrea Jobb at andrea.jobb@csun.edu.
#GoMatadors
Those joining the induction class are Bobby Braswell (men's basketball), Valerie Brisco-Hooks (track and field), Katie Holloway Bridge (women's basketball), Dennis Gilbert (special inductee), Scott Sharts (baseball), and the 1975 national champion men's track and field team.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place at Porter Valley Country Club in Porter Ranch (19216 Singing Hills Drive) on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026. The event is expected to start at 6 p.m.
"CSUN Athletics has an incredibly rich history, and we're honored to induct these proud Matadors into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame," said Director of Athletics Ryan Swartwood. "Bobby Braswell, Valerie Brisco-Hooks, Dennis Gilbert, Katie Holloway Bridge, Scott Sharts, and the 1975 CSUN Men's Track and Field Team are very deserving of this recognition, and we're excited to celebrate them in November."
Bobby Braswell, Men's Basketball
Few individuals have had a greater impact on the success and growth of CSUN Men's Basketball than Braswell, whose remarkable 17-year tenure as head coach helped elevate the Matadors to unprecedented heights.
A proud CSUN alumnus who graduated in 1985, Braswell returned to his alma mater in 1996 and guided the Matadors through one of the most successful eras in program history. Serving as head coach from 1996-2013, he became the second-longest tenured head coach in CSUN Men's Basketball history and established himself as the winningest Division I coach the program has ever known.
"I am extremely blessed to have had the privilege of coaching so many remarkable young men over the years," Braswell said. "I was blessed with exceptional assistant coaches and staff. None of this would have been possible without their dedication, commitment, and hard work. I am extremely grateful, but the true glory belongs to God. This is only possible because of Him!"
Braswell amassed 251 Division I victories during his career at CSUN, the most in school history, while also recording a program-best 140 conference wins. Under his leadership, the Matadors captured three conference championships, beginning with the 2000-01 Big Sky Conference title and followed by back-to-back Big West Conference championships in 2007-08 and 2008-09. His teams also secured conference tournament championships in 2001 and 2009.
Perhaps most notably, Braswell guided CSUN to the first two NCAA Division I Tournament appearances in school history. The Matadors earned their inaugural NCAA Tournament berth in 2001 before returning to college basketball's biggest stage in 2009 after a memorable championship season.
The 2000-01 campaign remains one of the finest in program history, as Braswell led CSUN to a Division I program-record 22 victories. His teams recorded three 20-win seasons overall, consistently positioning the Matadors among the top programs in their conferences.
Braswell's success earned him back-to-back Big West Coach of the Year honors in 2008 and 2009, further cementing his reputation as one of the most accomplished coaches in CSUN Athletics history.
Through his leadership, competitive excellence, and commitment to student-athlete success, Bobby Braswell left an enduring legacy on CSUN Men's Basketball. His impact on the program and the university continues to be felt today, making him a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Braswell is the 16th head coach to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining fellow men's basketball head coach Pete Cassidy who was inducted in 2004.
Valerie Brisco-Hooks, Women's Track and Field
Brisco-Hooks' accomplishments on the track elevated her to the highest levels of international competition and established her as one of the most decorated athletes in CSUN history.
Brisco-Hooks was a key member of CSUN's historic women's track and field program during one of the most successful periods in school history. In 1979, she helped lead the Matadors to the AIAW National Championship under legendary head coach Barbara Swerkes, contributing to one of the premier teams in collegiate track and field.
That same season, Brisco-Hooks captured the AIAW national championship in the 200-meter dash and as a member of the 880-yard relay team. Her outstanding performances earned her All-America honors in the 200m, 440-yard relay, and 880-yard relay, cementing her place among the nation's elite collegiate sprinters.
More than four decades later, Brisco-Hooks' name remains in the CSUN record book. She continues to hold the school record in the outdoor 200-meter dash after posting a time of 23.16 seconds in 1979, a mark that has stood the test of time as one of the program's most impressive achievements.
"Being inducted into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame is an incredible honor," Brisco-Hooks said. "Northridge played such an important role in my career, and the experiences, lessons, and relationships I gained there helped prepare me for the Olympic stage. I'm deeply grateful for everything CSUN gave me and proud to be part of a community that continues to inspire athletes to dream big and believe in themselves."
Following her collegiate career, Brisco-Hooks became one of the most accomplished Olympians in United States track and field history. At the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, she captured three gold medals, winning the 200m, 400m, and 4x400-meter relay to become one of the stars of the Games. She later added a silver medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul as a member of the United States' 4x400-meter relay team.Her international success also included two Pan American Games gold medals, first in the 4x100-meter relay in 1979 and later in the 4x400-meter relay in 1987, further showcasing her longevity and excellence on the world stage.
In 1987, Brisco-Hooks returned to Northridge and established another lasting mark by setting the Matador Track Complex record in the 400 meters with a time of 50.30 seconds, a performance befitting one of the greatest athletes ever to compete for CSUN.
From national champion to Olympic gold medalist, Valerie Brisco-Hooks has represented CSUN with distinction throughout her career. Her remarkable accomplishments, both as a Matador and on the international stage, have secured her legacy as one of the most influential figures in the history of CSUN Athletics and a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Brisco-Hooks is the fifth CSUN women's track and field student-athlete to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining Darci Arreola-Lange (1998), Alice Brown (1986), Jacqueline Hansen (1998), and Pam Spencer-Marquez (1985).
Dennis Gilbert, Special Inductee
Gilbert's impact extends far beyond the playing field, combining success in business, professional sports, and philanthropy into a career defined by innovation, leadership, and service.
Gilbert attended CSUN from the fall of 1969 through the spring of 1971 before embarking on a professional journey that would make him one of the most influential figures in sports business and financial services.
"I'm truly honored to be included in the 2026 CSUN Hall of Fame class," said Gilbert. "CSUN played an important role in my life, and to be recognized by a university that means so much to me is incredibly special. I'm grateful for the opportunity and proud to be part of this distinguished class."
Today, Gilbert serves as the CEO and founder of The Gilbert Group, a nationally recognized firm specializing in wealth protection and estate planning for high-net-worth individuals and families in sports, entertainment, and business. Throughout his distinguished career, Gilbert has consistently ranked among the top one percent of life insurance professionals in the United States.
His path to success began as a minor league baseball player before he transitioned into the insurance and financial planning industry. Gilbert became a respected educator in estate planning, teaching continuing education courses to members of the California CPA Society. Through those relationships, he built a prestigious entertainment-industry clientele and developed a reputation for helping clients protect and preserve wealth through innovative insurance strategies.
Recognizing that professional athletes could benefit from the same expertise, Gilbert expanded his career into sports representation and founded the Beverly Hills Sports Council. Under his leadership, the agency quickly became one of baseball's most influential organizations, revolutionizing player contracts and compensation. Gilbert personally negotiated more than 1,000 professional contracts and helped reshape Major League Baseball's salary structure by securing groundbreaking agreements for stars including George Brett, Barry Bonds, Mike Piazza, Ricky Henderson, Curt Schilling, Trevor Hoffman, Bobby Bonilla, Jose Canseco, Danny Tartabull, Brady Anderson, and Joe Magrane, among many others. In 1999, he sold his interest in the agency after establishing it as one of the premier sports representation firms in the country.
Gilbert's influence in the financial services industry continued to grow, leading to the creation of The Gilbert Group in 2009. The firm quickly became one of the nation's leading insurance and estate-planning organizations, and Gilbert remains a sought-after speaker and educator for financial, legal, and accounting professionals across the country.
Even as his business interests expanded, Gilbert maintained a close connection to professional baseball. In 2001, he joined the Chicago White Sox as special assistant to Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, a position he continues to hold today. In that role, Gilbert provides guidance on player contracts, personnel decisions, scouting matters, and a variety of organizational business initiatives.
Gilbert's legacy is equally defined by his commitment to giving back. As co-founder and chairman of the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation (PBSF), he helped create a vital support network for baseball scouts and their families facing financial hardship. Under his leadership, the organization raised more than $1 million in assistance and advocacy efforts. Gilbert also spearheaded the development of an inner-city baseball field at Los Angeles Southwest College, creating opportunities for young athletes through Major League Baseball's RBI Youth Program.
Raised in Gardena, Gilbert has maintained strong ties to his community and has dedicated significant resources to expanding opportunities for underserved youth. His philanthropic efforts include the creation of Dennis Gilbert Field at Los Angeles Southwest College and years of leadership supporting baseball development programs throughout Southern California.
Throughout his career, Gilbert has earned numerous honors recognizing both his professional excellence and humanitarian contributions. He serves on Major League Baseball's Salary Arbitration and Player Development Committees and has been recognized as "Man of the Year" by the Anti-Defamation League. His accolades also include a Lifetime Achievement Award from Gardena High School, induction into the Los Angeles Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, and distinction as the first inductee into the Los Angeles City College Hall of Fame. In 2016, Major League Baseball's Baseball Assistance Team honored Gilbert with its Humanitarian Award for his decades of service and philanthropy.
Together with his wife, Cindy, Dennis Gilbert has built a legacy of leadership, generosity, and impact that has touched countless lives throughout the worlds of sports, business, and community service.
Gilbert is the 16th CSUN special inductee inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame, and the first since Dorothea "Granny" Heitz was inducted in 2010.
Katie Holloway Bridge, Women's Basketball
Holloway Bridge's legacy is one of excellence, perseverance, and achievement at both the collegiate and international levels.
One of the most accomplished Paralympians in American history, Holloway Bridge was a member of the Matador women's basketball program from 2004-08. She established herself as one of the most efficient and impactful players in school history. Throughout her career, she earned numerous conference honors while helping elevate the success of the program during her four seasons in Northridge.
"I am so honored to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame," Holloway Bridge said. "I have always been a proud CSUN Women's Basketball Alum; it was one of the most influential times of my life, and the teammates and coaches are still a part of my life today. I could not be more excited to celebrate with everyone!"
Holloway Bridge's list of accolades began with selection to the Big West All-Freshman Team in 2004-05. She was named Big West Sixth Woman of the Year in both 2005-06 and 2006-07, adding Honorable Mention All-Big West recognition during the 2006-07 season. As a senior in 2007-08, she earned second-team All-Big West honors, capping a distinguished collegiate career.Her name remains prominently featured throughout the CSUN record book. Holloway Bridge ranks second in program history in career field-goal percentage at .532, fifth in career blocked shots with 110, and 10th in free-throw attempts with 352. She also owns the top two single-season field-goal percentage marks in school history, shooting a remarkable .653 during the 2006-07 campaign and .554 in 2007-08.
While her accomplishments at CSUN were impressive, Holloway Bridge's athletic journey reached even greater heights on the international stage. As a member of the United States Women's Sitting Volleyball National Team, she has become one of the most decorated Paralympians in the sport's history.
Holloway Bridge earned her first Paralympic medal at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, capturing a silver medal with Team USA. She followed with another silver medal at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London before helping lead the United States to an unprecedented era of dominance. Holloway-Bridge won Paralympic gold medals in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, Tokyo in 2020, and Paris in 2024, becoming a three-time Paralympic champion and one of the most accomplished athletes ever to represent CSUN on the global stage.
Her success has extended beyond competition and into the classroom. Holloway Bridge earned Big West All-Academic Team honors for three consecutive years from 2005-2008, demonstrating the same commitment to excellence academically that she displayed athletically.
From her record-setting performances in a Matador uniform to her remarkable achievements representing the United States around the world, Katie Holloway Bridge has exemplified determination, resilience, and competitive excellence throughout her career.
Holloway Bridge is the fourth CSUN women's basketball student-athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining fellow inductees Patricia De La Riva (2001), Channon Fluker (2025), and Ofa Tulikihihifo (2018).
Scott Sharts, Baseball
Few student-athletes have left a mark on the CSUN Baseball program quite like Scott Sharts, whose unique ability to excel as both a power hitter and dominant pitcher made him one of the most versatile players in program history.
A two-way standout for CSUN from 1990-91, Sharts lettered as both a first baseman and right-handed pitcher, establishing himself as one of the premier players in the nation during his time in Northridge. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Matadors reach unprecedented success, including a memorable 1990 season in which CSUN advanced to the NCAA Division II Championship Series and finished as national runners-up.
He will become the third member of the Sharts family in the CSUN Hall of Fame, joining his uncle, Paul Edmondson who was inducted in 1981 and his brother, Steve Sharts who was inducted in 2018 as a member of the 1984 baseball team.
"I'm honored and very humbled to be inducted into the CSUN Hall of Fame," Sharts said. "I am grateful to my coaches, my teammates – forever my Dors brothers – and my family who have supported me through the years.
"Finally, I am excited to join the many distinguished individuals in the CSUN Hall of Fame, especially my uncle, Paul Edmondson, and my brother Steve Sharts," he added. "Thank you for this tremendous honor."
Sharts' accomplishments at the plate remain among the most impressive in school history. He is tied for first all-time in career home runs with 51 and continues to hold the CSUN single-season record with 29 home runs. His offensive production helped redefine the program's record book, and he currently appears on 11 different top-10 career and single-season statistical lists, a testament to his all-around impact and consistency.
While his power-hitting prowess garnered national attention, Sharts was equally dominant on the mound. During his career, he recorded the second-most complete games in a single season with 13 and struck out 139 batters in a season, the third-highest total in school history. His ability to excel in both roles made him one of the most valuable players in collegiate baseball and a difficult matchup for opponents in every phase of the game.
The combination of his offensive and pitching success earned Sharts widespread recognition. He was a two-time All-American and received All-California Collegiate Athletic Association First Team and All-District honors, establishing himself among the nation's elite collegiate players.
Following his standout career at CSUN, Sharts was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 10th round of the 1991 Major League Baseball Draft. He went on to play four seasons of professional baseball, continuing the career that began with his remarkable success as a Matador.
More than three decades after his playing career, Sharts' name remains firmly embedded throughout the CSUN Baseball record book. His contributions to one of the most successful teams in program history, combined with his extraordinary achievements as both a hitter and pitcher, have secured his place among the greatest players ever to wear a Matador uniform.
Sharts is the 19th CSUN Baseball student-athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and the first since Larry Ramirez in 2012.
The 1975 CSUN Men's Track and Field Team
The 1975 CSUN Men's Track & Field team achieved one of the greatest accomplishments in university athletics history, capturing a national championship and cementing its place among the elite collegiate teams of its era. In recognition of its historic success and legacy, the 1975 Men's Track & Field team has been selected for induction into the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
Led by head coach Cliff Abel, the Matadors assembled a remarkable season that culminated with the 1975 NCAA Division II National Championship. CSUN's national title represented the pinnacle of a dominant campaign that also included a California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Championship, showcasing the team's excellence at both the conference and national levels.
The championship squad was powered by outstanding individual performances throughout the season. The Matadors produced two NCAA individual national champions, with Steve Albright claiming the national title in the shot put and Ed Chaidez capturing the championship in the six-mile run. Their victories provided crucial points in CSUN's march to the national crown and highlighted the team's remarkable balance across multiple disciplines.
Depth proved to be one of the defining characteristics of the 1975 team. CSUN athletes earned All-America honors in 10 different events, demonstrating the breadth of talent that made the Matadors one of the most complete teams in the country. Whether in the field events, distance races, or other track disciplines, the Matadors consistently delivered championship-level performances throughout the season.
In addition to its national and conference titles, the team established five school records, further underscoring the exceptional caliber of athletes who comprised the championship roster. Those performances not only fueled the team's success in 1975 but also set standards that would inspire future generations of Matador student-athletes.
The 1975 NCAA championship remains one of the defining moments in CSUN Athletics history. Through a combination of outstanding coaching, individual excellence, and extraordinary team depth, the Matadors achieved a level of success that continues to be celebrated more than five decades later.
For capturing a national championship, winning a conference title, producing NCAA champions and All-Americans, and establishing a legacy of excellence that endures today, the 1975 CSUN Men's Track & Field team is a deserving member of the CSUN Athletics Hall of Fame.
The 1975 men's track and field team is the eighth CSUN team and the first track and field team inducted into the Hall of Fame.
For more information on the CSUN Hall of Fame, please contact Andrea Jobb at andrea.jobb@csun.edu.
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