Student athletes can have plenty of different support systems in their lives, but perhaps no one helps shape their potential more than a beloved coach. Before the team’s field was dedicated in his name, former Brooke High School football coach Bud Billiard had emotional reunions with some of the former players he helped lead to victory. Billiard coached Brooke to 185 wins and three state championships over his 23 years with the program, and has remained an avid supporter even in his absence.

It was a meaningful day not only for Billiard, but for the alumni who were able to spend the day remembering all he did for them. The camaraderie and fellowship felt among former teammates was palpable, proving that Billiard built teams to withstand the test of time. “It’s hard to really believe, going back through my mind right now, seeing kids from the ‘79 crew all the way up and everything in between, so many kids I haven’t seen in years showing up tonight,” Billiard told a local news anchor at the event. “It’s really just a wonderful feeling.”

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