Western Illinois University and Leatherneck Athletics are proud to announce the 2025 Athletics Hall of Fame class, recognizing an outstanding group of individuals and a historic team that have left a lasting legacy on the Leatherneck tradition. The honorees will be formally celebrated during the Hall of Fame and Homecoming Weekend, October 17–18, 2025, in Macomb.
“This year, we celebrate extraordinary talent—accomplished as individuals, yet forever united through their commitment to the Leathernecks,” said Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb. “Our Hall of Fame classes reflect the legacy of excellence that defines Western Illinois—and this group truly embodies that spirit.”
This year’s class is led by former softball standout Sammy Marshall, one of the most electrifying athletes in Leatherneck history. Marshall finished her career with a staggering .456 batting average and 134 stolen bases—both Summit League records. She was a four-time First Team All-Summit League selection and earned back-to-back conference Player of the Year honors in 2013 and 2014. In 2012, she led the nation with a perfect 45-for-45 mark in stolen base attempts. Following her record-breaking college career, Marshall was drafted by the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fastpitch league, where she continued to shine and earned NPF Player of the Week honors in 2017. Today, she continues her impact on the sport through coaching and player development.
Joining Marshall in the Hall of Fame is former Leatherneck baseball standout Jim Morsovillo, whose leadership and consistent performance on the field helped set the tone for WIU Baseball during his playing days. Known for his competitive spirit and steady presence at the plate and in the field, Morsovillo made a lasting impression on teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. Morsovillo is listed in the Top Ten in five categories for the Leathernecks, including runs, hits, doubles, home runs, and career batting average. His contributions extended beyond the box score, earning him the reputation as one of the most respected players of his era.
Also being inducted is longtime university administrator Dr. Garry Johnson, whose support of WIU Athletics spanned decades. Known for his strategic leadership and deep commitment to student-athlete success, Dr. Johnson played an instrumental role in enhancing the university’s athletic facilities and fostering a culture that valued both athletic and academic excellence. Under Dr. Johnson’s supervision, improvements for Leatherneck Athletics included $5.5 million for renovations of the East Side Football stadium, $1.4 million for the turf field and scoreboard, and significant investments in coaches’ offices, locker rooms, and other enhancements. Johnson continues to support Western’s athletic programs as he and wife Margie were Charter Members of the Leatherneck Legends, a giving society for the Leatherneck Club.His behind-the-scenes influence helped shape the modern experience for Leatherneck student-athletes across all sports.
Rounding out the class is the 1978 men’s track and field team—a dominant force that etched its name in program history with record-breaking performances. Their success laid the foundation for future generations and remains one of the defining chapters in Leatherneck track and field history. Members of the 1978 team hold over twenty Top Ten records for Track and Field at Western while the team finished third in teh NCAA Division II National Championship meet, hoted by Western Illinois University.
All inductees will be recognized during a weekend of festivities coinciding with Western Illinois University’s Homecoming, October 17-18. Events include the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, campus receptions, and special recognition during the Homecoming football game. More details, including event schedules and ticket information, will be announced in the coming weeks.
The WIU Athletics Hall of Fame serves to honor the exceptional individuals and teams who have shaped the proud tradition of Leatherneck Athletics. The 2025 class stands as a testament to the talent, dedication, and pride that continue to define Western Illinois University.
***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***
