WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – A presentation was made at West Family Stadium on Wednesday to recognize the significant contributions of veteran West Liberty University head football coach Roger Waialae in support of the entire Hilltopper athletic program and the university.
Highlighting the event was the dedication of a permanent bronze plaque commemorating and detailing Coach Waialae's extensive fundraising success over the course of his 20-plus years at West Liberty. Leading the dedication were Gary West and his wife, Phyllis “Flip” West – Waialae's close friends and the largest donors in West Liberty University history.
“I congratulate Coach Waialae on this very well-deserved honor,” West Liberty athletic director Lynn Ullom said. “For more than two decades, Coach Waialae has been an incredible team player who is always more than willing to step in and help the department and our institution in any way that he can.
“His fundraising efforts during his time at West Liberty have been truly extraordinary and will continue to benefit Hilltopper student-athletes for many years to come.”
Here is the full text of the plaque, now prominently displayed on the wall of West Family Stadium:
"This plaque recognizes veteran West Liberty University Football Coach Roger Waialae for his tireless efforts in support of the program and the university. During his time on the hilltop, Coach Waialae has garnered nearly $10 million in private funding to lead the comprehensive renovation of West Family Stadium. He has been a driving force in many other facility upgrades and construction projects across the campus, as well, highlighted by the West Family Athletic Complex and the Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration Performance Zone. Coach Waialae also prioritized the creation of additional private scholarship opportunities, providing enhanced athletic and academic experiences for numerous student-athletes over the years."