Lifetime Achievement Award
A true pillar of Olympia High School and the Olympia community, Bill has made an unparalleled impact in athletics, education, and community service over the course of his lifetime. From his days as a multi-sport athlete at OHS to his distinguished career as a teacher, coach, and leader, his contributions have left a lasting legacy.
In high school, Bill was a standout athlete, earning three varsity letters in football, one in basketball, and three in baseball. His leadership on the field was exemplified as he co-captained the OHS baseball team in 1969. In 1968, he played in the inaugural game at Ingersoll Stadium, marking a historic moment in OHS sports history. Beyond his athletic achievements, he was deeply involved in school leadership, serving as the Big "O" Club President in 1968-1969 and representing OHS at Boys State in 1968, followed by his role as Boys State Counselor in 1969.
After high school, Bill continued his athletic pursuits at Walla Walla Community College, where he played baseball for one year and football for two years. As a football co-captain, he was selected for the 1971 JC All-American Football Team and earned him a football scholarship to the University of Texas El Paso.
Following his time in college, Bill transitioned into a lifelong career dedicated to education and athletics. Earning a master's degree in education, he returned to Olympia High School, where he spent 38 years shaping the lives of students. His roles at OHS included teacher, coach, athletic director, and administrator. As head baseball coach from 1976 to 1984, he guided his teams to a Black Hills League Championship in 1983 and was named Black Hills League Coach of the Year in 1981. He also served as a football coach from 1975 to 1994, contributing to the OHS football team's state championship victory as an assistant coach in 1984.
In addition to his coaching success, Bill played a key role in the development of youth and community sports. He served as a youth coach and volunteer for football and baseball, helping to foster the next generation of athletes. His dedication to sports also extended to officiating, as he became a respected men’s and women’s basketball official at the high school and college levels, including officiating state championship games and working as a PAC-10 official.
In 2007, he was honored with the Together-Champion for Kids Award, recognizing his lifelong contributions to youth sports and education. His outstanding legacy was further solidified in 2023 when he was inducted into the OHS Alumni Hall of Fame.