Janet (Lachmann) Balthazar

Janet’s induction as part of the class of 2024 should come as no surprise. As a member of Avon’s Class of 1989, she excelled as a competitor in soccer, basketball and softball. But, perhaps most telling is how she was remembered by those with whom she competed. Falcon teammate and Class of 2022 Falcon Hall of Fame inductee, Kelly Sheetz, recalls Janet as, “The person I most looked up to, the person I most wanted to be like when I was a Freshman, and someone who inspired me to find ways to always get better.”

Janet earned 12 varsity letters while at Avon High School, contributing to each of the teams she played on immediately during her Freshman year. Her work ethic and ability to lead by example were recognized by everyone as she was named captain for each program during both her junior and senior seasons. On the soccer field, Janet was highly decorated individually while also leading the team to its own success. Starting immediately as a Freshman, she was named All-Conference in the NCCC, a recognition she would earn each of her 4 years. Her final 3 years resulted in further recognition, both individually as she was named an AllState player, and for the team that made deep runs in the State Tournament during each of those years.

Basketball and softball presented Janet with the opportunity to compete during the Winter and Spring, and she did just that, again being selected by her coaches and teammates as a captain and earning All Conference recognition twice for both sports.

Ultimately, Janet took both her skills and passion to Canisius, where she scored 61 points during her college soccer career while winning awards during each season there, including the Rookie of the Year, MVP, Unsung Hero, and Offensive Player of the Year. In addition, she was named both All-Tournament and AllAcademic by the MAAC. Janet’s athleticism could never be questioned as she also joined the Canisius softball team for a season, one that saw them go 22-7.

Janet’s impact on those around her is being paid forward today as she continues her career as an educator and a coach. She remains active in youth and High School sports, helping others find their own rewards from athletics that she’s clearly enjoyed for herself.