Dick Shellhorn

Dick Shellhorn represents more than five decades of dedication to Alaska high school basketball. A player, coach, referee, broadcaster, journalist, and community leader, Shellhorn’s lifetime of service to Cordova High School and the state of Alaska embodies the true spirit of the ASAA Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award.

A graduate of Cordova High School, Shellhorn played basketball for the Wolverines from 1958–1962 before returning home in 1972 to teach high school mathematics and begin what would become a remarkable 50-year officiating career. From 1972–2022, he served as a basketball referee across Alaska, officiating invitational tournaments statewide, countless 2A and 3A district playoffs, and numerous state tournaments — including six state championship finals.

In 2021, Shellhorn was inducted into the Alaska Association of Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame, recognizing his extraordinary contributions as an official. Reflecting on the honor, he said, “I’ve met so many good officials over the years and discovered we all have the same common goal — calling that elusive perfect game, while teaching about respect and sportsmanship.”

During a 2022 ceremony honoring his 50 years of officiating, Cordova school officials noted that through all the wins and all the losses, there has been one constant — Dick Shellhorn. The gym permanently commemorated his service with the Bendzak-Shellhorn Officials Corner Plaque and a Golden Whistle award recognizing his professionalism and commitment.

Shellhorn’s influence extended far beyond the striped shirt. He coached junior high and JV basketball at Cordova High School, helped establish Cordova’s Referee Association, and conducted referee clinics across Alaska. His dedication strengthened officiating standards and supported generations of student-athletes.

For 46 years, he also served as the radio voice of Cordova basketball, traveling with teams to broadcast games so that families back home could follow their athletes. Known affectionately as the “Voice of the Wolverines,” he ensured the Cordova community remained connected to its teams.

A member of the Cordova Elks Lodge, Shellhorn helped establish the Cordova Elks Tip-Off Basketball Tournament — now in its fourth decade — fostering statewide camaraderie and hospitality for visiting teams. He also chronicled local sports history through articles in The Cordova Times and authored the 2018 book “Balls and Stripes,” documenting a lifetime of sports adventures.

From player to referee, from broadcaster to historian, Dick Shellhorn has devoted his life to Alaska high school basketball. His five decades of commitment to education, sportsmanship, and community make him a deserving inductee into the Alaska High School Hall of Fame.