David Van Halanger

David Van Halanger 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 2012.

A native of Turtle Creek, Pa., Van Halanger graduated from West Virginia University in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. A standout on the football field, he earned three varsity letters, served as team captain of the 1975 Peach Bowl championship team, and was twice named All-East and honorable mention All-America. He later played professionally with the Atlanta Falcons.

Van Halanger returned to WVU in 1976 as a graduate assistant and became the University’s first full-time strength and conditioning coach in 1978. He laid the foundation for WVU’s strength training programs across all sports and continued in that role through the early Don Nehlen era.

In 1983, Van Halanger joined Bobby Bowden’s staff at Florida State University, where he served as head strength and conditioning coach for 18 years. During his tenure, the Seminoles won two national championships, nine consecutive ACC titles, and produced dozens of NFL draft picks. In 2001, he became head strength coach at the University of Georgia under Mark Richt, later serving as Director of Player Welfare until 2015. His Georgia teams captured two SEC championships and made multiple top-ten national finishes.

Recognized nationally as a leader in his field, Van Halanger was named Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in 1993 and was inducted into the Strength and Conditioning Hall of Fame in 2003. He was featured in Sports Illustrated in 1998 and was widely regarded for combining high-level physical training with a focus on mental toughness and personal development.

Later in life, Van Halanger oversaw a Fellowship of Christian Athletes program in Dallas, mentoring young athletes and coaches. 

He passed away in 2023.