LARAMIE, Wyo. (Dec. 1, 2024)-- University of Wyoming wide receiver Will Pelissier, a native of Big Horn, Wyoming, played his last game at War Memorial Stadium just over a week ago against the Boise State Broncos. From a kid who grew up watching Cowboy football, dreaming of playing for the team one day, to capping off his final home game with heartfelt moments both on and off the field.
"It truly was surreal," Pelissier said. "Having been coming to these football games since as early as I can remember, it was certainly an emotional moment for me. But, once we got on the field, it was time to flip the switch. After the game, though, looking back at all my time here, it truly was a special moment."
A Wyoming Kid Living the Dream
Being from Wyoming made the moment even more special for Pelissier. "It absolutely does," he said when asked about his roots. "Having played 1A and 2A football growing up with Big Horn, I was lucky enough to come to four state championships here and win three on the turf at War Memorial. That's every Wyoming kid's dream, and I got to live it."
Some of his most incredible memories on the field include the hard-fought victories over the Air Force, one in 2022 and another in 2024. "To me, those games embodied Wyoming football," he shared. "Hard-fought games against a good opponent, with the student section storming the field—it doesn’t get much better than that."
Mentors and a Bright Future
Reflecting on the people who shaped his career, Pelissier credited former teammate Aydan Eberhart. "When I first got here, Aydan was a great mentor to me. He didn’t have to take the time, but he saw potential in me. That meant a lot," he said. Pelissier also spoke highly of fellow receivers Wyatt Wieland, Ryan Marquez, and Gunner Gentry, who have guided him along the way.
As for the future of Wyoming’s receiving corps, Pelissier expressed excitement about the talent in the room. "Guys like Jaylen Sargent, Chris Durr, TK King, and Justin [Stevenson]—they’re all incredibly talented and have great work ethics. I know they’re going to do great things."
What’s Next for Will Pelissier?
With his football career officially over, Pelissier is focused on completing his MBA in December and deciding on his next steps. "Right now, my future is kind of undecided," he said. "I’ll take some time after the season to decide what’s best for me."
Pelissier plans to return to Sheridan or Big Horn, hoping to start a new chapter. Engaged to Morgan, a Cheyenne native pursuing a master’s in speech pathology at UW, the couple is planning a 2026 wedding after her graduation.
Final Cowboy Walk
Pelissier described his final Cowboy Walk as bittersweet. Surrounded by family, friends, and even his dogs, he celebrated the completion of his journey. "It was awesome," he said. "Being able to share that with my family and my close friend Caleb [Cooley] made it even more special."
As Pelissier played his final game as a Cowboy in Pullman, Washington, last night, he leaves behind a legacy of riding for the brand and setting a standard for the future of Cowboy football. The memories will last a lifetime for a kid from Big Horn who lived out his dream in War Memorial Stadium.
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