The Newport Sports Museum was founded 20 years ago by Orange County resident, John Hamilton, with the purpose of sharing his historic sports memorabilia collection with children and families from all walks of life. Upon opening its doors, the Museum began operating under two basic driving principles that are still in effect today: admission would never be charged and a panel of athlete volunteers would demonstrate to at-risk youth the important role that sports had on their lives, including their educational achievements and experiences with drugs, alcohol and gangs.
The Museum’s collection now encompasses over 10,000 items from national and international sports icons, including baseball, basketball, football, hockey, golf and more. In addition, it is proud to offer four motivational and mentorship youth outreach programs Athletes C.A.R.E. for Kids, Career Choices, Sport Yourself and the Legacy Leadership Project free of charge to all children, regardless of race or socio-economic status.
