Seven former student-athletes have been selected for induction into the James Madison University Athletics Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026, according to an announcement from JMU on Tuesday. The inductees are Jailyn Ford (softball), Janey Goodman Wellons (volleyball), David Herbek (baseball), Kevin Knight (men’s soccer), Vad Lee (football), Ed Perry (football), and Therese Wolden Cooper (women’s soccer).
These athletes collectively represent significant achievements in their respective sports at JMU. Five members advanced to professional athletic careers, and five achieved All-America status, including some who were first in their sport at the university. Three were candidates for National Player of the Year honors during their collegiate careers.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for Friday, September 4, 2026, at the Atlantic Union Bank Center on JMU’s campus. Further details about ticket sales will be released later in the spring. Nominations for future Hall of Fame classes can be submitted online by anyone at any time, with all candidates evaluated according to established selection criteria.
Jailyn Ford was a standout two-way player for JMU softball from 2013 to 2016. She became the program’s first National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-American and helped lead the team to its most successful period in history. “The moment Jailyn Ford stepped foot on the JMU softball diamond the trajectory of the program was forever changed.” Ford set numerous records both as a pitcher and hitter and went on to a professional career that included being drafted third overall by Akron Racers in 2016 and winning a gold medal with Team USA in 2022.
Janey Goodman Wellons played volleyball from 2013 to 2016 and was instrumental in raising JMU volleyball’s profile nationally. “Janey Goodman was a key factor in JMU volleyball’s climb to a consistent, championship-contending program, thanks to her powerful left arm.” She earned multiple All-Region and All-State honors and finished second all-time at JMU with 1,716 career kills.
David Herbek served as shortstop for baseball between 2008 and 2011 during one of the program’s most successful stretches. He started nearly every game across four years and held or ranked highly in several statistical categories upon graduation. “David Herbek was a steady hand at the key position of shortstop across one of the best four-year stretches in program history for the Diamond Dukes…”
Kevin Knight played men’s soccer from 1995 through 1998 under coach Dr. Tom Martin. He started all matches during his college career and earned recognition on conference anniversary teams as well as academic awards: “Kevin Knight was a key midfield presence for JMU men’s soccer as a four-year starter under Hall of Fame Head Coach Dr. Tom Martin.”
Vad Lee quarterbacked football from 2014-2015 after transferring from Georgia Tech, quickly becoming one of the top offensive players in school history: “That spark came in the form of quarterback Vad Lee, a starter at Georgia Tech whose arrival with JMU football ignited a rise to national relevance that continues to present day.” His performances included record-setting games that brought national attention such as ESPN’s College GameDay visit.
Ed Perry played tight end from 1992-1996 before embarking on an NFL career primarily as a long snapper: “Ed Perry was a three-time All-American for JMU football as a tight end before then continuing to a nine-year NFL career as a long snapper.” He helped lead his team through playoff appearances while earning multiple individual accolades.
Therese Wolden Cooper starred for women’s soccer between 1995-1998 during what remains one of its best periods: “Therese Wolden Cooper was a top offensive weapon for the Dukes during one of the best four-year stretches in program history.” She remains among school leaders in goals scored nearly three decades later.
All seven honorees contributed significantly both individually and within team contexts during their time at James Madison University.
