A Great Tribute to John Hoffman

In a first-class tribute to a first-class sportsman, long-time Lynn resident John Hoffman was honored at a special  dinner at the Nahant Country Club on June 19.

First, we must commend dinner chair Al Melanson for putting together such a wonderful program. Master of Ceremonies Paul Halloran, former sports editor of the Daily Item, was the perfect choice for that role as he kept the speaking program moving smoothly with some fun quips as part of the tribute.

Hoffman was clearly moved by the remarks of the speakers who illuminated on the tremendous impact and majestic presence that he has had in the entire Lynn sports community throughout his life, not only as a sportscaster but as a coach and mentor. Boston Globe columnist Chris Gasper noted how he was sitting in the press box at a World Series game in St. Louis and he remembered that it was John Hoffman who taught him how to properly score a baseball game.

We remember the legendary Red Hoffman, sports editor of the Daily Item, the esteemed chronicler of the local sports scene for many years. John Hoffman has also been a credit to his family, his children, and his grandchildren in his role as the preeminent local sportscaster in our city’s athletic history.

Congratulations, John, on your much-deserved honor and tribute. There was never a doubt that this event would be sold out.

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