Baseball Star Matt Raleigh Earns Historic Selection to Vermont Sports Hall of Fame Class
Officials announced on Friday that Swanton native Matt Raleigh will join the Vermont Sports Hall of Fame, the selection recognizes his dominant collegiate career and professional coaching tenure, he becomes the first athlete from Missisquoi Valley Union High School to receive this prestigious state honor.
Swanton Native Rose from Small Town to National Prominence
The Raleigh name is synonymous with baseball success in the Green Mountain State, Matt Raleigh grew up in Swanton where he excelled as a standout three-sport athlete. His journey began long before his professional days, he proved early on that players from Vermont's rural northern region could compete on a national stage. This induction adds another chapter to a remarkable family history that includes his brother Todd and nephew Cal Raleigh, the clan has consistently produced elite talent for decades. Observers note that this recognition cements the family's status as a dynasty within the local sports community, their influence spans from local high school fields to Major League stadiums.
Collegiate Records and Professional Tenure Anchor 2026 Induction Class
The Vermont Sports Hall of Fame officially named Raleigh to its 13th induction class on January 23, the organization plans to hold a formal ceremony on April 25 at the Delta Marriott in South Burlington. Raleigh established himself as a dominant force during his time at Western Carolina University, he earned recognition as the 1992 Southern Conference Player of the Year. He remains the all-time leader for the Catamounts in hits with 302 and runs scored with 251, he also crushed a school-record 68 home runs over his career. His 1992 campaign was particularly historic, he became the first player in school history to record 25 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a single season.
The Montreal Expos selected him in the 14th round of the draft that same year, he spent nearly a decade playing professionally in the minor leagues before transitioning to a successful coaching career. Raleigh made a significant mark as a hitting instructor for the Florida Marlins organization, he received a World Series ring in 2003 for his contributions to the club. His coaching resume includes time spent refining the mechanics of future superstars, players like Miguel Cabrera credited him with helping improve their swing during their development years.
Missisquoi Valley Union High School Celebrates Historic First Inductee
This selection serves as a major validation for athletics in northern Vermont, Raleigh stands as the first representative from Missisquoi Valley Union High School to enter the hall. His success validates the quality of sports programs outside of the state's population centers, it offers inspiration to young athletes in rural areas who aspire to play at higher levels. The honor also bridges generations as his son Brody currently plays for the Catamounts, this creates a unique legacy at the university.
The Class of 2026 highlights the diverse athletic talent found throughout the state, Raleigh remains active in the sport as a championship-winning high school coach in New York.
