Demie J. Mainieri

Demie Mainieri 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 1990.

Born in 1928, the Jersey City, N.J., native came to Morgantown via Potomac State College and completed a distinguished athletic and academic career at WVU, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952.

He began his teaching and coaching career at Masontown High School in Preston County, W.Va., and later earned both master’s and doctoral degrees from Columbia University. In 1960, he joined Miami Dade Junior College, where he served as head baseball coach, faculty member, Associate Dean of Health, Physical Education and Athletics, and Director of Athletics.

Mainieri became internationally recognized for his success in baseball, compiling a record of 915-342 at Miami Dade, including a National Junior College Championship in 1964. He also served as a baseball consultant in numerous foreign countries.

His honors include the Distinguished Service Award from the United States Baseball Federation, NJCAA Coach of the Year, and inductions into the NJCAA Hall of Fame and the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Throughout his career, Mainieri remained a loyal supporter of WVU and served as an ambassador for the School of Physical Education. He hired many fellow graduates, including Hall of Fame member Dr. Leland Byrd.