West Liberty, W.Va. - West Liberty track and field standout Dave Coffaro left an enduring mark on the Hilltopper program during the mid-1970s. A self-taught javelin thrower, Coffaro became the first NAIA Track and Field All-American in school history and helped lead West Liberty to three consecutive WVIAC team championships from 1974-76.

Coffaro dominated the conference in the javelin, winning three straight WVIAC titles while also scoring in the high jump and discus to help extend the Hilltoppers' championship run. On the national stage, he was a two-time NAIA qualifier and remains the only Hilltopper ever to score at the NAIA Nationals. His school-record throw of 222 feet, 4 inches earned him sixth place at the 1976 meet—a mark that still stands nearly five decades later.

After graduation, Coffaro continued competing in Olympic Development meets and pushed his personal best to 260 feet, 9 inches. Away from athletics, he built a successful career as the founder of a Pittsburgh-based software company before retiring in 2019. A loyal supporter of Hilltopper athletics, Coffaro credits West Liberty with shaping his personal and professional journey.

Sport you played/coached at West Liberty?
I was a javelin thrower on the WL Track Team that won the WVIAC Conference Championship in 1974, 1975, and 1976.

Major?
Psychology and General Business.

Years you attended West Liberty?
1973-1977.

What are you doing now?
I have been retired for the last five years. I started a software company in 1996 and grew the business until ultimately selling it in 2019.

Favorite memory of West Liberty?
I loved being part of the Championship Track & Field teams. We had many gifted athletes who set amazing records, some of which are still standing today.

Advice to current athletes or students?
I would advise everyone attending West Liberty to participate in their college experience to the fullest. These years will be among the best years of your life.

What does it mean to be an alumnus of West Liberty?
Attending West Liberty put me on track to achieve many of the successes in my life. I had exceptional professors like Dr. John McCullough and TJ Babb in the Business School. I have been fortunate to be able to give back to the University financially and through participation in boards.

Most influential coaches or teammates during your time here?
Our track coach was Tim Weaver. Tim had an unbelievable passion for Track & Field, and that passion was truly contagious. Bruce Cox was a standout distance runner who was a great team leader. Joe Kasper was a three-time conference champion in the high jump who actually helped me learn the event and become good enough to score a few points in some key meets. Herb "Freddie" Fletcher was inspirational because of his outstanding performance in the sprinting events and his dedication to training.

Coffaro remains one of the most decorated athletes in Hilltopper track and field history and a proud representative of West Liberty University.