The Slippery Rock University (SRU) Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has revealed the seven distinguished individuals comprising the 2024 induction class. These exceptional athletes and contributors will be honored at the annual Rock Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet on September 6th. This year’s enshrinement marks the 40th anniversary of the Hall of Fame.
Rock Hall of Fame 2024 Inductees: A Celebration of Excellence
The Rock Hall of Fame Class of 2024 includes:
- Cory Darr: Men’s Track & Field (Class of 2000) – A five-time PSAC champion and three-time All-American in shot put.
- Ryan Gillespie: Men’s Soccer (Class of 1995) – A three-time All-Region and All-PSAC selection, and member of the U.S. National Beach Soccer team.
- Rick McCandless: Administrator/Athletic Training (Class of 1969) – SRU’s first head athletic trainer and founder of its athletic training and physical therapy programs.
- Bob McComas: Administrator/Sports Information (Class of 1982) – A dedicated sports information director who significantly advanced SRU’s athletic communications. He is being honored posthumously.
- Amy (Halls) McCormick: Women’s Lacrosse (Class of 2012) – SRU’s first All-American and four-time All-PSAC lacrosse player.
- Susan Myers: Field Hockey/Women’s Basketball (Class of 1973) – A two-time field hockey MVP and leading scorer, and later a decorated field hockey coach at Old Dominion University.
- Stacey (Rhoades) Rice: Softball (Class of 2008) – A record-breaking hitter and current head softball coach at SRU.
Induction Ceremony and Ticket Information for Rock Hall of Fame 2024
The induction ceremony will be held Friday, September 6th, at the Robert Smith Student Center Ballroom. The evening begins with a reception from 5-6 p.m., followed by dinner and the induction ceremony at 6 p.m. The inductees will also be recognized during halftime of the SRU football game against New Haven on Saturday, September 7th, at 1 p.m.
Tickets are $70 per adult, including reception beverages and appetizers, dinner, and a football game ticket. A table of eight can be purchased for $560. Tickets for children 12 and under are $20. To purchase tickets or for more information, please contact the SRU Athletics Office at 724.738.4117.
Rock Hall of Fame Legacy
With the addition of these seven individuals, the SRU Athletic Hall of Fame now boasts 278 members, a testament to the university’s rich athletic history and the enduring contributions of its athletes, coaches, and administrators.
Highlighting the Careers of Rock Hall of Fame 2024 Inductees
Each inductee has left an indelible mark on SRU athletics. Cory Darr’s dominance in shot put, Ryan Gillespie’s success in both collegiate and beach soccer, and Rick McCandless’ pioneering work in athletic training are just a few examples of the exceptional achievements being celebrated. Bob McComas’ contributions to sports information, Amy McCormick’s record-breaking lacrosse career, Susan Myers’ impact on field hockey as both a player and coach, and Stacey Rice’s remarkable softball accomplishments further underscore the caliber of the 2024 class. This induction ceremony promises to be a memorable event, honoring the past and inspiring the future of SRU athletics.
