The University of Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024 has once again spotlighted a remarkable group of individuals whose contributions have left a lasting legacy in Wildcat history. This year’s inductees—Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, John Cropp, Henrik Larsen, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Jodie Meeks, and Corey Peters—represent excellence across a variety of sports, showcasing the depth of Kentucky’s athletic tradition. Let’s dive into the extraordinary stories of this year’s honorees:
Jasmine Camacho-Quinn: From Collegiate Star to Olympic Trailblazer
Jasmine Camacho-Quinn electrified the track during her Kentucky career from 2016 to 2018. She dominated the SEC with six titles and clinched three NCAA championships in the 100-meter hurdles. Her collegiate performances hinted at her future greatness, but it was on the Olympic stage where she etched her name in history.
At the Tokyo Olympics, Camacho-Quinn earned a gold medal for Puerto Rico in the 100-meter hurdles, becoming the island’s first-ever track and field Olympic champion. She followed up with a bronze in Paris, making her the first Puerto Rican athlete to win two Olympic medals. Her collegiate time of 12.40 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles remains one of the fastest in NCAA history, cementing her legacy as one of the program’s greatest athletes.
John Cropp: A Builder of Legacies
John Cropp’s name is synonymous with Kentucky athletics, not just for his accomplishments but for the culture of excellence he helped build. Serving for over two decades as an administrator and coach, Cropp’s influence spanned multiple sports.
Most notably, he spearheaded the establishment of Kentucky’s softball program, mentoring countless student-athletes and raising the profile of the sport within the university. His unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership earned him the ultimate honor: the naming of John Cropp Stadium, which serves as a testament to his transformative impact.
Henrik Larsen: A Marksman Like No Other
Henrik Larsen’s impact on Kentucky’s rifle program was immediate and transformative. Competing for just one season, Larsen’s precision and composure led the Wildcats to the 2018 NCAA Rifle Championship, where he earned the title of NCAA Shooter of the Year.
Individually, Larsen claimed the national air rifle championship and shattered program records that remain untouched. His career extended to the international stage, where he represented his native Norway in the Tokyo Olympics, continuing Kentucky’s tradition of producing world-class talent.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: A Global Track and Field Icon
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone only competed at Kentucky for one year, but her impact was seismic. In that single season, she captured the NCAA 400-meter hurdles title, setting a collegiate record that still stands. But it was her post-collegiate career that truly elevated her to legendary status.
On the global stage, McLaughlin-Levrone became a household name. She claimed four Olympic gold medals across Tokyo and Paris and shattered multiple world records in the 400-meter hurdles. Named the 2022 World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year, her journey continues to inspire athletes worldwide. Few Wildcats, if any, have achieved the level of global recognition she enjoys today.
Jodie Meeks: Kentucky’s Scoring Sensation
Jodie Meeks left an indelible mark on Kentucky basketball with his unforgettable scoring prowess. During the 2008-09 season, Meeks broke records and set arenas ablaze, most notably with his 54-point explosion against Tennessee—a performance that included 10 three-pointers and still stands as one of the program’s greatest individual achievements.
That season, Meeks scored 854 points and drained 117 three-pointers, both still Kentucky records. After his stellar college career, he spent over a decade in the NBA, where his shooting ability made him a valuable contributor. Fans often ponder what might have been had Meeks stayed another year to team up with Kentucky’s 2009-10 squad.
Corey Peters: A Gridiron Warrior
Corey Peters was a cornerstone of Kentucky’s defensive line from 2006 to 2009, helping the Wildcats secure four consecutive bowl appearances during one of the program’s most successful eras. A first-team All-SEC honoree, Peters was known for his relentless motor and leadership on the field.
His skill and determination translated into a successful 13-year NFL career, where he became a respected veteran and mentor. Now serving as a scout for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Peters continues to shape the game he loves, ensuring his legacy extends beyond his playing days.
A Class That Embodies Kentucky’s Spirit
The Class of 2024 exemplifies the heart, determination, and excellence that define Kentucky athletics. From world-class Olympians to legendary coaches and record-breaking athletes, these inductees have not only elevated the Wildcats to new heights but also inspired generations of fans and future athletes.
As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognize the indomitable spirit of the Big Blue Nation that continues to propel Kentucky’s legacy forward. Go Big Blue!