John Mallory

John Mallory 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 and was named the College’s Outstanding Alumnus in 2008.

A native of Summit, N.J., Mallory received his Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University in 1968. As a student-athlete, he was a standout defensive back and special teams player, leading the Mountaineers in punt returns from 1965-67. He ranked 11th nationally in punt return yardage as a sophomore and was named WVU’s Most Valuable Player in 1967. A two-time All-Southern Conference selection and Honorable Mention All-American, Mallory also lettered in track.

He was selected in the 10th round of the 1968 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles and played one season before joining the Atlanta Falcons, where he became the franchise’s all-time leader in punt return yards. He later played and coached in the World Football League for the Houston Texans.

Following his football career, Mallory spent nearly 25 years in management roles with AT&T and earned numerous awards in sales and leadership. 

He served on the WVU Alumni Association Board of Directors, the School of Physical Education Visiting Committee, and the board of the Neighborhood Health Center in New Jersey. Mallory was inducted into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame in 2001 and named to the Mountaineers’ All-Time 1960–69 Football Team.