Santa Rosa, CA – On Monday, May 13, 2024, Santa Rosa Junior College Athletics inducted the Class of 2024 into the SRJC Hall of Fame. The SRJC Hall of Fame inducts members who have achieved excellence and high honors as an athlete, team, coach or community member.

The 2024 induction class featured two individual athletes, one coach, and one entire team. The inductees were Chauncey Ako, Jen Tsurumoto, Coach Ron Myers, and the 2004 and 2005 Women's Swim & Dive teams.

About the inductees:

Chauncey Ako, a dominant presence on the football field, has left an indelible mark on Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) through his exceptional skills and leadership. A star since his high school days in a football-loving small town, Ako was heralded as an All-State linebacker, setting the foundation for his collegiate exploits. At SRJC, he quickly distinguished himself as a formidable force, joining the team in 2019 and immediately assuming a critical role in bolstering the defense. Known for his agility, strength, and tactical acumen, Ako's ability to read the game and execute plays made him a central figure in the team’s strategy. ko led the team in tackles, averaging over ten per game, demonstrating his consistency and tenacity. His knack for making game-changing plays was highlighted by a memorable interception returned for a touchdown during a pivotal conference game, earning him Player of the Week honors. His leadership skills did not go unnoticed, as he was named team captain in his sophomore year, steering his team to a conference championship and epitomizing the spirit of perseverance and excellence. Ako's outstanding performance at SRJC garnered him numerous accolades, including consecutive First-Team All-Conference honors and the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award in his final season. His success at the junior college level paved the way for a scholarship to a renowned Division I university, where he continued to thrive, setting records and maintaining his high standards on and off the field. Beyond athletics, Ako is deeply involved in his community, particularly in mentoring young athletes through sports camps. His dedication to nurturing future talent and his commendable work ethic make him a role model and an ambassador of the sport. Chauncey Ako's journey from a high school hero to a celebrated college athlete and beyond embodies the essence of dedication, talent, and leadership, making his story a source of inspiration for many.

Jen Tsurumoto's athletic career, marked by outstanding achievements and leadership, began at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC), where she played from 2010 to 2012. As a Bear Cub, Jen was a two-time all-state selection and was honored as the conference MVP in her sophomore year. She was instrumental in leading SRJC to the state championship in the 2010-2011 season, including a standout performance of 28 points in the semifinal victory over Mt. SAC. During her tenure at SRJC, she averaged 13.9 points and 4.0 assists per game, displaying her skill as both a scorer and a playmaker. Following her success at SRJC, Jen transferred to the University of California, Irvine (UCI), where she continued to excel. During her senior year in 2013-2014, Jen started all 31 games, earning All-Big West honorable mention recognition. She averaged 13.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, knocking down 46 three-pointers—a figure that stands as the ninth-highest in UCI single-season history. Notably, she set a UCI single-game record for free throw percentage, shooting a perfect 13-of-13 from the line against the 49ers and scored a career-high 31 points against UC Riverside. Her clutch performances included sinking eight free throws in the final 43 seconds to clinch a victory over Cal State Fullerton.  Jen's personal career highlights include back-to-back 30-point games, a testament to her scoring ability, and a memorable behind-the-back pass that left a lasting impression on both her teammates and coach. Despite her competitive spirit on the court, Jen chose not to pursue sports professionally after college. Instead, she channeled her energy into becoming a kickboxing instructor and a P.E. teacher, roles through which she continues to influence and inspire young athletes. Jen's journey from a high school standout to a key player at SRJC and UCI exemplifies her dedication, skill, and leadership in basketball.

Ron Myers epitomizes a lifelong dedication to sports excellence and coaching prowess. His journey is a testament to relentless passion and unwavering commitment. Graduating from Fresno State University in 1977, Myers carved a formidable legacy as an athlete, ranking among the top 5 in six different Individual Career Statistical Leaders, showcasing his prowess in runs, doubles, hits, stolen bases, and batting average. His baseball acumen earned him accolades such as AII-PCAA (Pacific Coast Athletic Association) in 1976 and AII-NCBA (Northern California Baseball Association) in 1977. Transitioning seamlessly from player to mentor, Myers embarked on a coaching odyssey that began at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) in 1978. Initially volunteering as an assistant coach, his impact was immediate and enduring. Myers' coaching trajectory evolved steadily, as he assumed roles as an Adjunct Faculty member and Assistant Baseball Coach. In 1981, he ascended to the esteemed position of Head Baseball Coach at SRJC, a role he embraced with characteristic fervor and dedication. Beyond the diamond, Myers' love for sports knew no bounds. In 2018, he seized the opportunity to compete on the SRJC Golf Team, a personal highlight marking a remarkable return to competitive sports at the age of 63. His inclusion in the team not only showcased his enduring athleticism but also fostered profound connections with his younger teammates, illustrating his ability to inspire across generations. Myers' impact transcends the realms of athletics, extending into the fabric of the community he serves. His induction into the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association in 2005 stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and profound influence on countless athletes. Ron Myers embodies the quintessence of sportsmanship, mentorship, and unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the athletic landscape of Santa Rosa Junior College and beyond.

Inducted together, the 2004 and 2005 Women's Swim & Dive teams were two of the most successful swim teams in SRJC History with over twenty swimmers named All-American between both teams. SRJC Women's Swim & Dive is the most decorated team in SRJC athletic history, winning the CCCAA state championship title in 1983, 2008, 2009, and 2015, in addition to 2004 and 2005 - along with eight conference championships. All but one of those titles was won under Head Coach Jill McCormick.

"I was honored to work with a group of fierce young women who were ferocious competitors and wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves. It made a huge impact on me as a young coach." said McCormick. In her tenure as head coach, McCormick has also produced 13 national champions, over 50 state and conference champions, over 100 All Americans, over 80 Academic All Americans, three CCCAA State Swimmers/Divers of the Year, six state records, 16 Conference Swimmers/Divers of the Year, over 110 All Conference athletes, 30 conference meet records, and 93 school records. She has also been CCCAA State Coach of the Year seven times.

"Winning States as a member of that team is still one of the proudest achievements of my life. I am who I am because of what I learned from my coach and teammates then: commitment to excellence, ferocious competition, overcoming adversity, and the power of working together to reach greatness."  said 2005 team member Molly Curley O'Brien.

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