Jack Roberts

Jack Roberts was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1989.

A native of Morgantown, W.Va., Roberts graduated from Morgantown High School before earning both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Physical Education from West Virginia University by 1941. Upon graduation, he began a lifelong career in education by joining Arthur B. Clyde at Morgantown High School.

Roberts spent four decades at Morgantown High as a teacher, coach, administrator, and student supervisor. He developed one of the state’s most respected physical education programs and was actively involved in regional and state professional organizations. As a school leader, he planned and implemented athletic and physical education programs that were both educationally sound and deeply impactful.

He served as athletic director from 1954-1974 and as head basketball coach from 1954-1965. His teams captured consecutive Big Ten championships in 1956 and 1957, and he was named Big Ten Basketball Coach of the Year in 1956, 1957, and 1964. He also earned Big Ten Golf Coach of the Year honors in 1974. In his second year as head coach, he coached Kenny Blue, the first African American basketball player to compete at Morgantown High School.

Roberts was widely recognized for his service to Monongalia County Schools and the broader Morgantown community. Among his many honors were Athletic Director of the Year state awards, the Governor’s Distinguished West Virginian Award in 1974, and numerous professional and civic citations.

Following his retirement, Roberts remained actively involved with the Morgantown Board of Parks and Recreation. Jack Roberts Park, a four-acre site named in his honor, serves as a lasting testament to his community impact and commitment to youth recreation.

Roberts passed away in 1991.