MURFREESBORO, N.C. – Head men's soccer coach Chris Whalley and his team were among seven members inducted into the Mercyhurst University Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026 on Friday, January 17, in Erie, Pennsylvania.

"It was a great honor to be inducted into the Mercyhurst University Hall of Fame," said Whalley.

Whalley was recognized as a member of the historic 2002 Mercyhurst men's soccer team, which advanced to the NCAA Division II semifinals after posting a 17–2 overall record and a 5–1 mark in GLIAC play. That postseason proved to be one of the most successful in program history, as the Lakers earned numerous accolades, including Coach of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Freshman of the Year honors.

"Mercyhurst and Erie, Pennsylvania, were my first stops on my American journey, so they will always hold a special place in my heart," Whalley added.

Whalley arrived in the United States in 2001 to join the Mercyhurst men's soccer program under head coach Keith Cammidge. The opportunity proved to be a formative experience, helping shape Whalley into the coach and leader he is today.

"Reflecting back, I had two memorable seasons there as a player, made lots of friends, and created many fond memories," said Whalley.

This induction marks Whalley's second entry into a collegiate Hall of Fame, recognizing both his playing and coaching accomplishments. In 2022, he was inducted into the Lees-McRae College Hall of Fame following a highly successful five-year tenure as head coach. During that time, Whalley transformed the Bobcats into a regional and national contender, compiling a 77–22–11 record and the highest winning percentage (.780) in program history.

Under his leadership, Lees-McRae captured multiple Conference Carolinas regular-season and tournament championships, highlighted by a standout 2009 season that included a No. 1 national ranking, an NCAA National Runner-Up finish, and Conference Carolinas Coach of the Year honors. He also earned additional coaching accolades in 2007.

Now in his 12th season at Chowan, Whalley continues to build on a legacy defined by sustained success and impact. His journey from Mercyhurst as a young student-athlete to a nationally respected coach underscores a career rooted in excellence—one that began with those formative years in Erie and continues to shape the future of Chowan men's soccer.