ANGOLA, Ind. – Later this week, at the annual Touchstone and Homecoming Celebration Dinner, three new inductees will be welcomed into the Trine University Athletic Hall of Fame. During the week we will highlight the Class of 2026 and their accomplishments.

Sam Gilly is a 2016 graduate of Trine University with a degree in sport management. He was a member of the men's track and field team under head coach Rod Waters.

Sam made his mark as a thrower and a leader. He was a team captain for three seasons and a team MVP award in each of those seasons. During his senior season, the Thunder captured their first team MIAA Championship during the indoor championships.

The 2016 season also represented Gilly's personal peak. During the indoor season, he earned All-American status, with an eighth-place finish in the weight throw at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championships. At the MIAA Championships, he won the weight and hammer throws, earning Most Valuable Field Athlete honors along the way. He was All-MIAA in both indoor and outdoor seasons.

Off the field, Sam was the first men's track and field member to become an Academic All-American. He was awarded with the Ketner School of Business Excellence in Sport Management award and was part of multiple honor rolls and societies.

Sam now works as communications manager at Penzeys Spices. He lives in Indianapolis with his wife, Natalie, who is a resident physician at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital.

In addition to the official induction to the Hall of Fame on Friday, October 2, all members of the class will be recognized on the field during Trine's Homecoming Football game against Alma College on Saturday, October 3. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. with recognitions taking place throughout.