BREAKING NEWS: West Virginia Mountaineers Superstar Nicco Marchiol Donates Entire $20 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Deal to Legend Major Harris Remembrance – FULL DETAILS
In a stunning and heartfelt move that has touched the hearts of Mountaineer Nation and the wider sports world, West Virginia University’s rising football star Nicco Marchiol has donated his entire $20 million NIL bonus and sponsorship earnings to honor the legacy of WVU football icon Major Harris. The emotional announcement was made Monday at a packed press conference inside the Milan Puskar Center, sending a wave of admiration across the collegiate sports community.
A Tribute to a Mountaineer Legend
Major Harris, who played quarterback for the Mountaineers from 1987 to 1989, is widely considered one of the greatest players in WVU football history. His electrifying play style, charisma, and leadership took the Mountaineers to their first-ever undefeated regular season in 1988 and earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. Though Harris never reached the fame or fortune of many pro athletes, his legacy has remained a cornerstone of West Virginia pride.
Nicco Marchiol, visibly emotional as he addressed the media, said:
“Major Harris was the foundation. He broke barriers, changed the game, and gave kids from all over a reason to believe. This isn’t just about football. This is about saying thank you and making sure his name never fades from our memories.”
$20 Million Pledge for the “Major Impact Legacy Foundation”
The entire $20 million sum, comprising personal bonuses, national brand sponsorships, and local endorsement deals, will be directed toward the newly formed Major Impact Legacy Foundation. The nonprofit aims to preserve Harris’s legacy while uplifting underrepresented athletes in West Virginia and beyond.
The foundation will focus on:
- Building the “Major Harris Training Center”: A state-of-the-art facility in Morgantown that will serve youth athletes with elite training, mentorship, and education.
- Creating Scholarships: Annual “Major Harris Dream Grants” for student-athletes from underserved communities, with a focus on dual-threat quarterbacks.
- Historical Archives & Documentaries: Supporting the documentation and digital preservation of Major Harris’s achievements, including films, museum exhibits, and school curriculum.
- Community Programs: Hosting camps, leadership summits, and charity events to engage youth and inspire the next generation.
A Moment of Unity
The announcement was attended by former teammates, coaches, and family members of Major Harris, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year at the age of 56. His brother, Leroy Harris, fought back tears as he spoke about the tribute:
“We never expected anything like this. Major gave his all to this school, this state. And to see someone like Nicco carry the torch with such honor — we are deeply, deeply grateful.”
WVU head coach Neal Brown added:
“This is what it means to wear the Flying WV. Nicco isn’t just our quarterback — he’s become a leader, a Mountaineer through and through. He understands the shoulders he stands on, and today he reminded all of us what legacy truly means.”
National Praise and Social Media Reactions
The gesture drew widespread attention, with sports networks highlighting Marchiol’s generosity and maturity. ESPN anchor Scott Van Pelt called it “one of the most genuine acts of remembrance we’ve seen from a young athlete in decades.” On social media, former NFL players and college coaches praised Marchiol for using his platform in such a powerful way.
Pat McAfee, a fellow WVU alumnus, tweeted:
“Nicco Marchiol is a LEGEND already. Major Harris made us dream. Now Nicco is keeping that dream alive. WVU Forever.”
Marchiol’s Rise Continues
Marchiol, a redshirt sophomore, has been making waves on the field with his poise, dual-threat capability, and unwavering leadership. Many believe he has the potential to lead the Mountaineers to their first Big 12 Championship, and possibly more. But it’s his off-field character that is now capturing national attention.
When asked if he had any hesitation in giving away his entire earnings, Marchiol said:
“Money comes and goes. But what lasts is the impact you make. Major Harris gave this school everything. It’s time we give back to him and ensure his story never dies.”
Looking Ahead
Construction of the Major Harris Training Center is expected to begin in early 2026, with scholarship applications opening as soon as next spring. The foundation has already received additional pledges from alumni and private donors inspired by Marchiol’s leadership.
In an era of self-promotion and brand building, Nicco Marchiol has chosen a different path — one rooted in honor, humility, and history. With one incredible gesture, he has proven that legacy is not just about what you do with the ball in your hands — but what you do with the power you hold in your heart.
