A Legacy Forged in Excellence: Clemson University Unveils the Illustrious 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Class
The echoes of roaring crowds, the glint of championship trophies, and the indelible spirit of competition resonate deeply within the Clemson University athletic landscape. Today, that rich history welcomes a new chapter as Clemson Athletics and the esteemed Block C Club proudly announce the 2025 class of the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame. This distinguished group comprises legendary student-athletes, a revered coach, and an iconic administrator, each having etched their names into the annals of Tiger athletics through extraordinary achievements, unwavering dedication, and profound contributions to the university.
The Class of 2025 represents a tapestry of talent and tenacity, spanning across various sports and eras, yet unified by a common thread of excellence. From national champions and All-Americans to professional standouts and program pioneers, these individuals have not only achieved remarkable feats in their respective fields but have also left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of Clemson athletes and fans. Their induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to their dedication, their impact, and the indelible mark they have left on Clemson University.
Leading the charge of this celebrated class are a pair of gridiron giants: DeAndre Hopkins and the late Chester McGlockton. Hopkins, a name synonymous with electrifying plays and record-breaking performances, donned the Clemson uniform from 2010 to 2012. In his three seasons as a Tiger wide receiver, Hopkins established himself as one of the most dominant players in program history. His remarkable ability to make contested catches, his deceptive speed, and his knack for finding the endzone resulted in 206 receptions for 3,020 yards and a then-program record of 27 touchdowns. His pivotal role in Clemson’s 2011 ACC Championship victory solidified his place in Tiger lore. Beyond Clemson, Hopkins has continued his stellar career in the NFL, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, further amplifying the legacy he began in Death Valley.
Joining Hopkins from the realm of Clemson football is the towering presence of Chester McGlockton. A dominant defensive lineman from 1988 to 1991, McGlockton was a force to be reckoned with. His freshman campaign saw him lead the ACC in sacks, a testament to his immediate impact. A key figure in Clemson’s Gator Bowl triumph over West Virginia in 1989, McGlockton consistently disrupted opposing offenses with his strength and athleticism. His First-Team All-ACC selection in 1991, marked by 62 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and seven sacks, underscored his collegiate dominance. McGlockton’s prowess on the field propelled him to a successful NFL career as a first-round draft pick and a four-time Pro Bowler. His induction serves as a poignant reminder of his impactful presence and the lasting contributions he made to Clemson football.
The accomplishments of the 2025 class extend far beyond the football field, encompassing a diverse range of athletic disciplines. Dov Kremer, a standout in cross country from 1987 to 1989, carved his name into Clemson’s distance running history. Kremer captured the ACC Cross Country individual title in 1988 and earned All-ACC honors three times. His exceptional talent also translated to the track, where he secured an ACC title in the 1500 meters. A two-time All-American in cross country, Kremer was instrumental in Clemson’s consecutive ACC team championships, showcasing his leadership and athletic prowess.
Oswald Drawdy represents the pinnacle of Clemson men’s golf from 1986 to 1990. A three-time Academic Scholar recipient from the College Golf Foundation, a distinction held by only one other Tiger golfer, Drawdy excelled both on the course and in the classroom. He earned All-ACC honors in 1988 and 1990 and was a consistent starter on three Clemson teams that ranked among the nation’s top 20, including the 1989 squad that finished third at the NCAA Championships. A three-time Honorable Mention All-American, Drawdy’s 18 career top-10 finishes rank 12th in program history, a testament to his consistent excellence.
Donnie Heckel left an indelible mark on the Clemson wrestling program from 1987 to 1991. A two-time All-American and a two-time ACC Champion at 118 pounds, Heckel was a dominant force in his weight class. His outstanding senior season culminated in ACC Wrestler of the Year honors in 1991. Heckel’s tenacity and skill on the mat resulted in 101 career victories, the fourth-most in Clemson wrestling history, solidifying his legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats.
Stewart Ralph was a trailblazer for Clemson Track & Field from 1975 to 1978. As the first African-American track athlete at Clemson to earn All-American honors, Ralph broke barriers and set a standard of excellence. A three-time All-American in the javelin, he consistently ranked among the nation’s top throwers, finishing third at the NCAA Championships in 1976 and 1977, and achieving a career-best second place in 1978 with a remarkable throw of 80.26 meters. His achievements paved the way for future generations of Clemson track and field athletes.
Sophie Woorons made an immediate and lasting impact on the Clemson women’s tennis program in her sole season with the Tigers in 1996. Earning ACC Player of the Year honors, Woorons achieved All-American status in both singles and doubles. She was crowned the ACC #1 Singles Flight Champion and reached the NCAA Singles Tournament Final Four, finishing the year ranked among the top 10 nationally in both singles and doubles. Her exceptional talent and remarkable achievements in a single season cemented her place as one of the program’s most impactful players.
Jennifer Mihalik was a dominant force in Clemson women’s swimming from 1996 to 1998. A two-time ACC Champion in the 100 and 200 backstroke, Mihalik consistently excelled in the pool, earning All-America recognition for her outstanding performances. Her dedication extended beyond athletics, as she graduated in just three years with an impressive 3.89 GPA in microbiology, earning her a place in the Academic Hall of Fame. Mihalik’s achievements exemplify the ideal of the student-athlete, excelling in both athletic and academic pursuits.
Natoya Goule’s impact on Clemson women’s track was immediate and historic. Competing for the Tigers in the 2015 season after transferring, Goule achieved the pinnacle of collegiate athletics by winning the National Championship in the 800 meters at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Her record-setting time of 2:01.64 was not only a new NCAA Indoor meet record but also an ACC record at the time. Goule’s exceptional talent also contributed to Clemson’s sweep of the ACC Indoor and Outdoor Championships in 2015. She went on to represent Jamaica in three Olympic Games, further solidifying her status as an elite international athlete.
Beyond the remarkable achievements of these athletes, the Class of 2025 also recognizes the invaluable contributions of longtime administrator and broadcaster Tim Bourret. For four decades, from 1978 to 2018, Bourret served Clemson Athletics with unwavering dedication. He led the Sports Information Department and became the iconic voice of Clemson men’s basketball for a decade. His passion for Clemson and his meticulous chronicling of its athletic history have made him an indispensable figure within the university community. Bourret’s induction acknowledges his profound impact on shaping the narrative and preserving the legacy of Clemson athletics.
The formal induction ceremony for the Class of 2025 will take place on November 8, 2025, in conjunction with Clemson Football’s highly anticipated contest against Florida State. This momentous occasion will provide an opportunity for the Clemson family to celebrate the extraordinary careers and contributions of these deserving individuals. Their names will forever be etched in the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame, serving as a testament to their enduring impact on the university and inspiring future generations of Tigers to strive for excellence in all their endeavors. The legacy of the Class of 2025 will continue to resonate within the Clemson athletic community for years to come, a powerful reminder of the dedication, talent, and spirit that define what it means to be a Clemson Tiger.