Legendary Arkansas head coach John McDonnell managed to add to his impressive resume when he was named as an inductee into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame. USA Track & Field (USATF) made the announcement in New York City, site of the National Track & Field Hall of Fame during a press conference as part of New York Marathon week.

McDonnell, from Crossmolina, Co Mayo first learned of his selection in October when former Razorback and Olympic gold medalist Mike Conley, USATF President Bill Roe and USATF CEO Craig Masback called to share the good news.

"I was thrilled," McDonnell said. "It hadn't crossed my mind that it would happen. When Mike Conley first got on the phone and said that I have some people here that want to talk to you. Bill Roe and Craig Masback told me and I was shocked. It's a great honour."

McDonnell is one of seven selected for the Hall of Fame's Class of 2005 and is the only coach singled out for the prestigious honor.

During his long and distinguished career, McDonnell's Razorbacks have set a standard in collegiate sports that may never be equalled. To date, he has led his teams to win 41 NCAA championships, the most of any coach in any sport in NCAA athletic history.

Additionally, they have produced five national triple crowns, in which they won indoor track, outdoor track and cross country in the same year.

Arkansas athletes have won 105 NCAA event championships under McDonnell's guidance. He has produced 161 All-Americans that have combined to earn a staggering 614 All-America honors. On 29 occasions he has been named the NCAA coach of the year.

Among McDonnell's Accomplishments are: 41 NCAA championships since 1984 including 11 cross country, 18 indoor track and 12 outdoor track. He has more national championships (41) than any coach in any sport in the history of college athletics.

From an Irish perspective, McDonnell has coached Niall O'Shaughnessy, Frank O'Mara, Paul Donovan, Niall Bruton, Alan Dunleavy, Wes Alkin and Alistair Cragg. Colin Costello, the reigning U-23 European 1,500m Gold Medallist is now under the tutelage of Coach McDonnell.

Thanks to the University of Arkansas Sports Information Department and the USATF for contributing to this report.