West Liberty, W.Va. - For David Burnquist, West Liberty was about much more than baseball. It was about friendships, championships and memories that have lasted a lifetime.

A standout first baseman for the Hilltoppers from 1984-87, Burnquist helped usher in one of the most successful eras in program history. As a player and later an assistant coach, he was part of four consecutive WVIAC championship teams and helped establish a winning culture that continues to resonate with generations of West Liberty baseball alumni. "Winning four years of conference, conference tournaments and district championships as a player and coach with my lifelong teammates," Burnquist said when asked about his favorite memory from his time on the hilltop. "The everyday fun with my friends that are still my friends more than 40 years later."

A Business Management major, Burnquist attended West Liberty from 1983-88. He started every game during his four-year playing career while helping the Hilltoppers compile an impressive 62-16 conference record. West Liberty captured three straight WVIAC Tournament championships from 1985-87, with Burnquist serving as a key contributor on each title team.

His accomplishments extended beyond team success. Burnquist earned first-team All-WVIAC honors in both 1986 and 1987, served as co-captain of the 1987 squad and graduated holding school single-season records for doubles (17) and RBIs (43).

Following his playing career, Burnquist remained with the program as an assistant coach in 1988, helping the Hilltoppers add another WVIAC Tournament championship to an already remarkable run. While the victories and championships stand out, some of Burnquist's fondest memories came during the countless hours spent working alongside his teammates. "Saturday and Sunday three- and four-hour morning practices in the old Fieldhouse," Burnquist recalled. "Those are memories you never forget."

Burnquist credits legendary head coach Bo McConnaughy as the most influential figure during his time at West Liberty. "Bo McConnaughy," he said without hesitation when asked who had the greatest impact on his career.

After graduating, Burnquist spent more than a decade in sales and management with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization before building a successful career in medical sales. Today, he serves as a Medical Sales Representative for O.E. Meyer Company in Columbus, Ohio.

Even years after leaving campus, Burnquist maintained strong ties to the baseball program. He played an instrumental role in keeping the 1984-90 baseball alumni connected through the GrayBush Classic Golf Tournament, helping former teammates reunite and celebrate their shared experiences as Hilltoppers.

His dedication to the program and his accomplishments on the field earned him a place in the West Liberty University Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2022. For current student-athletes, Burnquist offers a simple but powerful message. "Never give up," he said. "Work your hardest in the offseason. That's when ball games are won and lost, when nobody is looking. A wise coach told me, 'You only have four years to play college sports. Give it your all.'"

More than three decades after his playing days ended, Burnquist still carries the lessons and pride that came with wearing the Black and Gold. "West Liberty is a great place to grow," Burnquist said. "It gives you a sense of pride, and when you see former Hilltoppers, you always have something in common." For Burnquist, that's what being a Hilltopper is all about—a bond built through hard work, shared success and friendships that truly stand the test of time.
 
David Burnquist Q&A
Sport(s) at West Liberty

• Baseball (1984-87)
• Assistant Baseball Coach (1988)

Major

• Business Management

Years at West Liberty

• 1983-88

What are you doing now?

• Medical Sales Representative, O.E. Meyer Company (Columbus, Ohio)

Favorite memory of West Liberty?

• Winning four years of conference championships, conference tournaments and district championships as a player and coach alongside lifelong teammates.
• Saturday and Sunday morning practices in the old Fieldhouse.
• Spending time with friends who remain close more than 40 years later.

Advice to current student-athletes?

• "Never give up. Work hard in the off season. That's when ball games are won and lost when nobody is looking."
• "A wise coach told me, 'You only have four years to play college sports. Give it your all.'"

What does it mean to be an alumnus and former coach of West Liberty?

• "It's a great place to grow. It gives you a sense of pride, and when you see former Hilltoppers, you always have something in common."

Most influential coach or teammate during your time at West Liberty?

• Bo McConnaughy

 



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.