The Bluefield University Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes graduates for achievements in their sports, careers, and character. The university honored its latest Athletics Hall of Fame inductees on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Alumni Awards Luncheon during Homecoming & Family Weekend.
This year, three alumni were inducted by Dr. Steve Peterson, University President; Corey Mullins, Vice President for Student Development and Athletics; Scott Polhamus, President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors; Sarah Nipper, Vice President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors; and Megan Vencill, Director of Alumni Relations.
Football alumnus Dr. Samuel L. Bennett III ‘16 was the first inductee of 2026.
Dr. Bennett was a standout running back for Bluefield University, finishing his career second in program history with 1,582 rushing yards. In 2014, he rushed for 883 yards and 10 touchdowns, ranking second all-time for rushing yards in a single season. He recorded five 100-yard games that season and set the program’s single-game rushing record with 276 yards against Union College. Bennett also participated in the 2016 NFL Draft and earned the highest GPA in the Communications department.
Dr. Bennett is an accomplished educational leader, special education scholar, administrator, instructional coach, adjunct professor, and Athletics Director. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, a master’s degree in special education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from Point Park University.
Volleyball alumna Camry McCroskey ‘19 was the second inductee of 2026.
McCroskey graduated from Bluefield University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and has spent the past eight years teaching biology at Giles High School. For the past seven years, she has also coached volleyball there and currently serves as Head Junior Varsity Volleyball Coach.
Teaching and coaching allow her to share her passion for learning, mentor young people, and encourage students and athletes to recognize their potential, McCroskey shared. For her, the values of perseverance, teamwork, leadership, and commitment that she developed during her time at Bluefield continue to be a guide in the classroom and on the court, and she is grateful for the experiences, relationships, and opportunities that shaped her, especially the support of her parents and those who invested in her throughout her journey.
Wrestling alumnus Luke Young ‘22 was the third and final inductee of 2026.
During his time at Bluefield, Young demonstrated the determination, discipline, and competitive spirit that define the sport of wrestling. One of the most memorable milestones of his career came at the 2018 Hokie Open, where he recorded the first pinfall victory in Bluefield wrestling history. This accomplishment marked an important moment for the young program, establishing a historic first that would forever remain part of the Rams’ legacy.
Young continued to build on that success, ultimately becoming the first American Athletic Conference wrestling champion in Bluefield University history. He captured the AAC championship while competing in the 184-pound weight class. Following his conference championship, he advanced to the NAIA National Championships, earning the opportunity to represent Bluefield University on the national stage.
The Bluefield University Athletics Hall of Fame was established to pay tribute and give recognition to former athletes, coaches, trainers, athletic administrators, and others of meritorious service who have made exceptional contributions to the athletic programs of the university. Nominations are accepted through the Alumni Award Nomination Form on the university’s website, and inductees are selected by a committee of alumni relations and athletic staff.
These Athletics Hall of Fame inductions, as part of the 2026 Alumni Awards Luncheon, are available to watch on the Bluefield University YouTube channel.