CONGRATS TO OUR NEWEST WVU SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES: BILL KIRELAWICH, PAT MCAFEE, BILL STEWART & DARRELL WHITMORE!
The West Virginia University Sports Hall of Fame has always stood as a monument to greatness—a place where grit, heart, and legacy are forever remembered. This year’s induction is no exception. Four legendary names—Bill Kirelawich, Pat McAfee, Bill Stewart, and Darrell Whitmore—now take their rightful place in the Mountaineer pantheon. Their contributions stretch beyond victories; they embody the Mountaineer spirit of determination, pride, and passion.
Bill Kirelawich, a defensive line coach who spent decades mentoring athletes, was known not just for his fiery voice on the sidelines but for the impact he had on shaping the character of young men. His ability to bring out the best in players made him a cornerstone of WVU football culture, and his legacy remains deeply etched in the hearts of his former athletes.
Pat McAfee, perhaps one of the most recognizable names in modern sports media, first made his mark as WVU’s dynamic punter and kicker. His booming leg and fearless on-field presence turned him into a fan favorite, but it was his infectious personality and larger-than-life charisma that made him unforgettable. McAfee’s journey from WVU standout to NFL star to media mogul serves as an inspiration for athletes to dream beyond the field.
Bill Stewart, the beloved coach who led WVU to a thrilling 2008 Fiesta Bowl victory over Oklahoma, is remembered for more than just his playbook. Stewart embodied compassion, humility, and leadership. He believed in people as much as in the game itself, and his words—“Leave no doubt!”—still echo in the hearts of Mountaineer fans everywhere.
Darrell Whitmore, a two-sport athlete who excelled in both football and baseball, exemplified versatility and raw talent. His ability to dominate on the gridiron and diamond showcased the type of athletic excellence that defines Hall of Fame caliber careers.
This year’s inductees remind us that greatness comes in many forms—through coaching, kicking, leading, and multi-sport mastery. Together, they represent the soul of WVU athletics: resilience, loyalty, and the unshakable Mountaineer pride. Their stories will inspire future generations, proving once again that the blue and gold spirit lives forever.
