MORGANTOWN — It’s been a long time coming.
For the first time, University High will introduce its Athletic Hall of Fame class this fall, looking to honor nearly 100 years of athletic achievements in the school’s history, and needs the community’s help to do so.
“There’s probably no school in the state, and I really mean this, that has the heritage and tradition that University High has,” hall-of-fame chairman Pat Ryan said. “I think it’s more than time that kids who played sports here are recognized.”
Ryan, along with UHS athletic director Jeff Bailey and principal Kim Greene, got the wheels in motion for the hall of fame, which will induct its first class this fall. It will honor important members of the UHS athletic programs throughout three time periods — 1925-’50, 1951-’70 and 1971-present. For the first class, a maximum of 10 inductees will be selected — two from each period and four at-large.
“Once you’re a Hawk, you’re always a Hawk, because this is a family,” Greene said. “You meet different people throughout the years, but they’re always part of it.”
With the help of the Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) at UHS, a wall will be dedicated in the school for plaques and other visuals. Inductees will receive a personal plaque.
“When you’re starting out and funds are always tight, it’s always nice to have a supportive group that is really helping us out like the PTSO,” Bailey said.
Donations and other fundraising ideas may come down the line.
The first class will be honored Sept. 14, when the UHS football team hosts Wheeling Park, at Mylan Pharmeceuticals Stadium. A reception will be held prior to the game at the school, and inductees can celebrate with their families and friends.
Criteria for inductees include:
— Athletes must have attended UHS.
— Must have brought positive recognition to himself/herself and UHS.
— Athletes must have graduated at least 10 years prior to the induction date.
— Athletes’ post-secondary careers — college and professional — may be used as criteria for consideration for their induction.
— Coaches, athletic directors, administrators and individuals who contributed to UHS athletic programs in an auxiliary capacity may be considered.
— Coaches, athletic directors and administrators become eligible upon retirement.
The selection committee will consist of individuals “new, old and seasoned” who have been involved in the UHS athletic programs for years and have a strong understanding of their history.
“Those on the committee love University High School and have been invested in the school in some way, whether it be their careers or time they’ve invested and it’s a part of who they are,” Bailey said.
Nomination forms can be found at http://hawks.mono.k12.wv.us/. Click on “athletics” and “University HS Athletic Hall of Fame Nomination Form.” Nominations must be in by June 1. If a nominee is not selected, his or her form will be kept on file, so the player need not be nominated again.
Questions: jwbailey@k12.wv.us.
