"The Class of 2025 represents one of the more unique groups of inductees in the Hall of Fame's history," says Driscoll. "When you see the accomplishments at all levels, and the impact made not just in Virginia but on the national and international stages, it truly highlights the role Virginia has played in sports globally."

George is the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame's 2025 Distinguished Virginian Award recipient. He played football at Ferrum in 1966 and 1967 under legendary Head Coach Hank Norton, and was named team captain, before transferring to Wake Forest University. At Wake Forest, he earned ACC All-Academic Team honors before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 1970 NFL draft.

George chose to play professionally in Canada, starting with the Montreal Alouettes, making the Canadian Football League (CFL) All-Pro Team five times. He was part of two Grey Cup Championship teams with the Montreal Alouettes, and was named CFL Outstanding Lineman in 1974. George completed his professional career after stints with the Baltimore Colts, Philadelphia Eagles and the CFL's Hamilton Tigercats. George was inducted into the Canadian Football League Hall of Fame in 2005.

His impact has been felt away from the gridiron as well, where his success in the financial sector has led to multiple philanthropic endeavors, many of which have been centered on support for student-athletes. After his pro football career, George went on to serve as managing director, executive vice-president and co-owner of the $8 billion investment firm of Manning & Napier, Advisors, Inc. He is married to Roe George, has two children, and three grandchildren.

George is a member of the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame's inaugural class in 1994. George received additional recognition with the naming of the Ed George Sports Hall of Fame in the Hank Norton Center. George has also been honored by the College with the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2006 and the Beckham Medallion Award in 2014.

George joins three other Ferrum College individuals who are members of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. Former Head Football Coach Hank Norton, who won four NJCAA national championships with the Panthers, was inducted in 2006. Additionally, All-American and seven-time MLB All-Star Billy Wagner '94 was inducted in 2012, while two-time All-American and three-time NFL Pro-Bowler Chris Warren '90 was inducted in 2022.

The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame is the fifth institution to recognize George with Hall of Fame honors. He is also part of the E.C. Glass High School Hall of Fame, the Lynchburg Area Sports Hall of Fame, the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame and the CFL Hall of Fame.

The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame 2025 Induction Weekend is set for Friday and Saturday, April 25-26, in Town Center of Virginia Beach. Tickets, sponsorship, and advertising opportunities for 2025 Induction Weekend are available now. Event and ticket information can be found at the Hall of Fame's website, www.vasportshof.com. Any questions regarding the Induction Weekend events can be directed to Will Driscoll at driscollw@VaSportsHOF.com.