Union Catholic legend Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, a world-record holder and four-time Olympic gold medalist, was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame this past Friday during the 17th Annual Induction Ceremony at The Rink @ The Arena at American Dream. Hosted by New Jersey's Danny DeVito, the event honored some of the most influential and accomplished individuals to come from the Garden State.
McLaughlin-Levrone is a 2017 graduate of Union Catholic High School, where she authored what many experts consider the greatest high school career by a female athlete in U.S. history. Her record-breaking performances and historic qualification for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro while still in high school laid the foundation for one of the most remarkable careers in track and field.
A record-breaking career that's redefined greatness, McLaughlin-Levrone's induction recognizes an athlete whose accomplishments have transformed her sport:
The staggering numbers
- Four-Time Olympic Gold Medalist
— 400m Hurdles: Gold in Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024
— 4×400m Relay: Gold in Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024
- World Record Holder – 400m Hurdles
— Set the current world record of 50.37 seconds at the 2024 Paris Olympics
- 2025 World Champion and American record holder - 400m (flat)
— Won her first global 400m title with an American record time of 47.78 seconds, becoming the second-fastest woman in history
A Jersey-born Inspiration
As one of 17 inductees recognized Friday night, McLaughlin-Levrone's story resonated deeply across New Jersey. Her journey — from a young talent at Union Catholic to a global superstar — continues to inspire athletes, students, and communities throughout the state.
About the New Jersey Hall of Fame
The New Jersey Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society and whose lives inspire the citizens of New Jersey. Inductees span the worlds of sports, arts, entertainment, science, public service, and more.
