UGA Announces 2025 Circle of Honor Inductees: Herschel Walker, Manny Diaz, and Jeff Wallace to Be Immortalized
Athens, GA — In a moment of pride and reflection for the University of Georgia, three iconic figures—Herschel Walker, Manny Diaz, and Jeff Wallace—have been named as the 2025 inductees into the UGA Athletic Association’s prestigious Circle of Honor. This distinction is reserved for those who have brought outstanding recognition to Georgia athletics through athletic excellence, leadership, and long-standing contributions to the university’s rich sports legacy.
The Circle of Honor, established to celebrate the elite among Bulldog greats, represents the highest tribute paid by the UGA Athletic Association. It honors not just athletic prowess, but the lasting impact and embodiment of the Georgia spirit. The 2025 class features a trio of legends whose careers span decades and whose influence is etched into Georgia’s athletic history.
Herschel Walker, a name synonymous with Georgia football excellence, is perhaps the most celebrated athlete in the school’s storied history. Walker’s legendary career with the Bulldogs from 1980 to 1982 redefined college football. As a freshman, he led the team to a national championship, and by the end of his junior year, he had won the Heisman Trophy, three consensus All-American honors, and rushed for over 5,000 career yards. His dominance on the field, combined with his relentless work ethic and unmatched physical prowess, made him a Bulldog icon and a national phenomenon. His impact transcends statistics; he became the embodiment of Georgia football’s golden era.
Manny Diaz, one of collegiate tennis’s most respected names, served as head coach of the Georgia men’s tennis program for decades, building a dynasty of excellence. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs claimed multiple national championships and consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation. Diaz, known for his sharp strategic mind and genuine mentorship, developed numerous All-Americans and future professionals while maintaining a culture of academic and personal integrity. His legacy is not just in wins, but in the generations of young men he shaped through the game of tennis.
Jeff Wallace, the winningest coach in UGA women’s tennis history, brought prestige and competitive excellence to the program over several decades. Under his direction, the Lady Bulldogs became a national powerhouse, capturing NCAA titles and countless SEC championships. Wallace’s commitment to excellence, coupled with his deep care for his players’ holistic development, earned him widespread respect in the collegiate tennis world. He transformed Georgia women’s tennis into a perennial national contender, making an indelible mark on the sport.
The induction ceremony for the Circle of Honor Class of 2025 will be held in Athens later this year and is expected to draw alumni, fans, and athletic legends from across the country. Each inductee will be celebrated not only for their accolades but for their enduring connection to the university and their role in shaping the proud legacy of Georgia athletics.
For the Bulldog Nation, this moment is more than a celebration—it’s a tribute to excellence, perseverance, and the true meaning of being a Dawg.
