Philip Donley

Phillip B. Donley 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 1991 and recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus in 2013.

A native of the Northern Panhandle and a graduate of Follansbee High School, Donley came to West Virginia University in 1952 and earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education. After graduating in 1956, he pursued a degree in physical therapy.

Donley began his career as a physical therapist in Akron, Ohio, before returning to WVU in 1960 to join the faculty and athletic training staff. During this time, he also earned a master’s degree in education. In 1965, he accepted a position at West Chester State University, where he served as a professor, head athletic trainer, and director of the athletic training education program. From 1981-95, he also owned and operated a private sports physical therapy clinic in West Chester.

Widely respected in the athletic training profession, Donley was named Trainer of the Year by the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association in 1978 and Athletic Training Educator of the Year by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association in 1986. His influence helped shape WVU’s athletic training education program, and he mentored numerous professionals in the field. He authored one book that reached 12 editions, edited two more, and contributed to 12 others.

Donley’s research included a decade-long study of professional baseball players, which led to innovations in injury prevention and rehabilitation methods related to upper extremity and kinetic chain movement. He continued to work part-time with Optimum Physical Therapy Associates and gave national presentations on shoulder and kinetic chain rehabilitation.