1995
Kirk S. Kessler, Class of '80 (Soccer)

Kirk "Chop" Kessler was the first freshman men's soccer player in the state of South Carolina to make All-District and All-State his freshman year at the College. He garnered honors throughout his career as a three-time NAIA All District 6 and All-State selection as well as distinction as the Cougars' top scorer and team MVP. Kessler led CofC to a 13-4 record in 1977, while finishing sixth in the nation with 32 points and seventh in assists (14) during the season. He and Chris Mills were co-captains of the team. Kessler was selected to try out for the 1980 Summer Olympic Games, but a severe knee injury kept him from attending. He passed away on July 2, 1989, and in 1991, the College finalized a scholarship in his name. He was the first soccer player to be inducted into the CofC Athletics Hall of Fame.