Pat White, the electrifying quarterback who once captivated Morgantown with his elusive runs and pinpoint passes, has once again stunned West Virginia University, this time with a monumental act of generosity. In a move that underscores his enduring love for his alma mater, White has donated two custom luxury buses to the WVU Football program, ensuring the Mountaineers will “Ride Like Champions” wherever their journey takes them.
This significant gift, the financial details of which were not immediately disclosed but are estimated to be in the seven figures, was announced today at a special ceremony at the Milan Puskar Center. The state-of-the-art vehicles are set to revolutionize team travel, providing unparalleled comfort, technology, and a tangible symbol of the elevated standards of the Mountaineer football program.
“This is home, and we ride like champions,” Pat White declared passionately at the announcement, surrounded by current players and coaching staff, including Head Coach Rich Rodriguez, under whom White achieved legendary status. “West Virginia gave me everything. It’s where I learned what it means to be a leader, to compete, and to win. Coming back to coach here has only deepened that connection. I wanted to give back in a way that truly impacts the daily lives of these young men, to show them that their efforts are valued, and that they deserve the very best. These buses aren’t just transportation; they’re mobile environments for recovery, study, and building team camaraderie. They represent the commitment we all have to excellence.”
White’s tenure as quarterback for the Mountaineers (2005-2008) is etched into the program’s record books. He became the first college quarterback to start and win four consecutive bowl games (2006 Sugar, 2007 Gator, 2008 Fiesta, and 2008 Meineke Car Care bowls). His remarkable athleticism led him to set 19 WVU, Big East, and national records, including finishing as the NCAA’s all-time leading rushing quarterback with 4,480 yards (now ranked second). Under his leadership, West Virginia posted an impressive 35-8 record, securing multiple Big East Offensive Player of the Year awards and leading the team to three consecutive top-10 finishes in the Associated Press poll. After a brief stint in the NFL and CFL, White returned to WVU in February 2025 as the assistant quarterbacks coach and assistant to the head football coach, bringing his invaluable experience back to the sidelines.
The two new luxury coaches are equipped with an array of features designed to optimize player comfort and performance during travel. Each bus boasts spacious, custom-designed reclining seats with individual charging ports and entertainment screens, high-speed Wi-Fi to facilitate academic work and video analysis, private meeting areas, a sophisticated climate control system, and a fully-equipped galley for nutrition and hydration. The exterior design proudly features the iconic WVU gold and blue, complete with the Flying WV logo, making a powerful visual statement wherever the team travels.
“Pat White’s generosity is simply incredible, and it speaks volumes about the deep ties our former players have to this program,” said Wren Baker, WVU Director of Athletics. “Elite transportation is a critical component of a successful Division I football program. Our student-athletes spend countless hours traveling for games, recruiting, and community events. These luxury buses will significantly enhance their comfort, reduce travel fatigue, and provide them with an optimal environment to prepare and recover. This gift is a game-changer for our program and a true testament to Pat’s love for West Virginia.”
The impact of such a donation extends beyond mere comfort. In the fiercely competitive world of college football, attracting and retaining top talent requires showcasing a commitment to player welfare and providing state-of-the-art resources. These luxury buses will serve as a powerful recruiting tool, demonstrating to prospective student-athletes and their families that WVU prioritizes their experience and provides a professional-level environment. It also reflects a growing trend in collegiate athletics where alumni and boosters invest heavily in tangible assets that directly benefit the players.
Furthermore, the donation reinforces the powerful bond between West Virginia University and its passionate fanbase. Pat White remains an idol in the hearts of Mountaineer faithful, and his visible commitment to the program inspires others within the community to contribute. This act of philanthropy will undoubtedly energize the entire WVU athletic department and foster an even stronger sense of pride.
White’s re-engagement with the program, both as a coach and now as a significant donor, symbolizes a new era of investment and commitment for WVU Football. His understanding of the rigors of collegiate football, combined with his desire to give back to the institution that shaped him, makes this donation particularly meaningful. As the Mountaineers prepare for future seasons, they will do so with the added advantage of traveling in style, embodying Pat White’s vision: “This Is Home, and We Ride Like Champions.” The luxurious buses will be a rolling testament to the enduring spirit of the Mountaineers and the profound connection between a legendary player and his beloved university.
