Garrett Ford

Garrett Ford was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2004.

A standout on the football field and a trailblazer in athletic administration, Garrett Ford made an indelible mark on West Virginia University through decades of service as a student-athlete, coach, counselor, and administrator.

Ford became the first Mountaineer to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season and more than 2,000 yards in a career, finishing with 2,166 rushing yards, 120 career points, and eight 100-yard games from 1965 to 1967. He was a second-team All-American in 1966 and left the program among the all-time leaders in several rushing categories. Selected in the third round of the 1968 NFL Draft, Ford played two seasons with the Denver Broncos before returning to WVU. 

He received his bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1969 and earned a master’s degree in guidance and counseling in 1973.

In 1970, Ford became the first African American assistant football coach in WVU history. He later transitioned to academic and administrative roles, most notably as Associate Athletic Director for Student Services. Over his 44-year career, he supported thousands of student-athletes through academic advising, career preparation, and eligibility oversight. He was instrumental in initiatives such as the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll and the development of multiple academic performance centers for WVU Athletics.

Ford was inducted into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame in 1995 and has also been honored by his high school alma mater, DeMatha Catholic, among others.