Athletics Hall of Fame

Purpose

The Hall of Fame seeks to recognize former student athletes, coaches, and other individuals whose performance and/or support for the Athletic program of the University has been of outstanding worth, elevating the notoriety of Gardner-Webb Athletics and strengthening the reputation of Gardner-Webb University.

Criteria for Eligibility

Nominations can be made by anyone inside or outside the University.

For a nominee to be considered for the Hall of Fame, he or she must have:

• lettered twice in his/her respective sport
• must have been statistically outstanding
• demonstrated good character while at Gardner-Webb and afterwards
• is at least five years removed from his/her time at Gardner-Webb.

Athletes

1. A nominee must be five years removed from intercollegiate participation.
2. A nominee must have lettered twice in his/her respective sport.
3. A nominee must have evidence of outstanding athletic performance at Gardner-Webb.
4. A nominee must have demonstrated exemplary character during his/her college career and the years that have followed.

Coaches

1. A nominee must be five years removed from coaching tenure at Gardner-Webb.
2. A nominee should have been and continues to be an example of good character.
3. Other factors that influence the selection of a coach for induction include but are not limited to the following: won-lost record, length of coaching career, concern for the welfare of athletes, achievements of former athletes, and his or her own achievements following tenure at Gardner-Webb.

The Chuck Burch Meritorious Service Award (awarded to one individual each year)

1. An individual who has demonstrated significant and meritorious service to the athletic program over a period of five or more years. 
2. An individual who has maintained a reputation for good character as well as dedicated support for Gardner-Webb Athletics through all seasons.

Procedure

Nominations are accepted online through Gardner-Webb University’s website throughout the year. All nominations received throughout the year are reviewed by the Selection Committee. 

The Hall of Fame Selection Committee is appointed by the President and is chaired by the Vice President of Advancement. Additional members of the Committee include Executive Director of the Bulldog Club, Athletic Director, Senior Women’s Athletic Administrator, and Director of Alumni Relations. Additional members may be appointed as needed. 

The Selection Committee will determine the inductee class during the summer and submit to the President for final approval. 

An induction ceremony will take place once a year. Hall of Fame inductees must be present at the ceremony. If sickness or other extenuating circumstances prevent attendance, an inductee may defer or appoint a family member or friend to represent him or her at the ceremony. 

A plaque will be placed on the Brinkley Hall of Fame Wall, located in the Football Center. 

The selected individuals will be notified by the Chair of the Selection Committee and will be provided details regarding this honor. Those selected will have three days to accept this honor or defer. 

Upon acceptance, the Director of Alumni Relations will work with inductees to ensure that all needed information is collected and the inductee and his/her guests are well prepared for the ceremony.