HICKORY, N.C. – Lenoir-Rhyne University Athletics is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Lenoir-Rhyne Sports Hall of Fame class.

The Hall of Fame, established in 1976, honors the most outstanding student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who have left a lasting impact on LR's storied athletic history.

The deadline for nominations is April 1, 2026, and the induction ceremony will be held Sept. 19, 2026. More details about the ceremony will be announced later this spring.

Those wishing to nominate deserving individuals can submit an online nomination form or download and print the paper form. 

CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY OF CANDIDATES

Nominees will be considered only if accompanied with supporting materials.

SECTION 1:  The candidate must not have represented Lenoir-Rhyne as a student athlete for ten years immediately preceding the date of induction.

SECTION 2:  The candidate must not be a full-time member of the Lenoir-Rhyne staff at the time of election and induction.

SECTION 3:  The candidate's athletic achievements and contribution to sports while at Lenoir-Rhyne or as an alumnus must have been widely recognized over the area served by the University, enhancing the reputation of the University as well as the candidate.

SECTION 4:  The candidate must be of good character and reputation.

SECTION 5:  The candidate must have attended Lenoir-Rhyne at least two academic years or must have been in good standing at the termination of such relationship with the college.

SECTION 6:  If the candidate's athletic achievements are based on a professional career, such career must have spanned a time period of at least five years.

SECTION 7:  All candidates shall be considered without discrimination on the basis of gender, race, or national origin.

SECTION 8: A separate "Contributor" section has been accepted in 2022 to allow coaches, donors, friends of hte program, support staff and other members ot the LR community who deserve special recognition. 

Nominees are evaluated based on athletic achievement, leadership, sportsmanship, and contributions to the success and tradition of Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics. The Hall of Fame Selection Committee will review both new nominations and previously submitted candidates for consideration into the 2026 class.

Since its creation, the Lenoir-Rhyne Sports Hall of Fame has celebrated generations of Bear legends who have shaped the institution's proud athletic tradition. The 2026 class will continue that legacy by recognizing individuals whose excellence and dedication embody the spirit of Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics.

Anyone with questions can contact JuJu Phillips at JuJu.Phillips@lr.edu or 727-328-7172.