Bill Hillier (2026) - Hall of Fame - Otterbein University Athletics

Otterbein University Athletics

Hall of Fame

Bill Hillier

Class

1979
Induction

2026
Sport(s)

Football, Baseball

A two-sport standout whose versatility and competitive excellence helped define a successful era of Otterbein athletics, Bill Hillier ranks among the most accomplished dual-sport student-athletes in Cardinal history. Excelling on both the football field and baseball diamond, Hillier left a lasting mark on each program while helping lead Otterbein to some of its most memorable achievements of the 1970s.

As the Cardinals' starting quarterback for four seasons, Hillier established himself as one of the premier signal-callers in the Ohio Athletic Conference. A two-time All-OAC selection, earning First Team honors once and Honorable Mention recognition another year, he consistently ranked among the conference leaders in both passing yards and total offense throughout his career. By the time he graduated in 1979, Hillier had amassed 304 completions, 4,258 passing yards, and 35 touchdown passes, placing him among the most productive quarterbacks in program history.

Hillier's impact extended far beyond individual statistics. Under his leadership, the Cardinals compiled a remarkable 24-11-1 record, and he served as the catalyst for one of the most successful stretches in school history. In 1977, he was named Team MVP. That squad also earned a special place in program history as the last Otterbein team to defeat Mount Union, an accomplishment that remains one of the defining moments of the era.

While excelling on the gridiron, Hillier also distinguished himself as a standout performer for the Cardinal baseball program. A 1978 All-OAC selection, he demonstrated the same competitive spirit and athletic ability on the diamond that made him successful in football. Among the highlights of his baseball career was a no-hitter against Denison in 1977.

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