The induction of Paul “Bud” Billiard to the Brooke High School Athletic Wall of Fame was part of a banner year that also saw the school’s football field named in honor of the veteran coach.

Whenever the Brooke Bruins are brought up, Billiard is remembered for the 23 seasons in which he led the team to the playoffs, three state championships, seven OVAC championships and national rankings in two years.

​

During his tenure, he achieved a record of 185-79-1 and received many honors, including West Virginia and OVAC Coach of the Year and induction to the OVAC and West Liberty State College halls of fame.

While attending the former Wellsburg High School, he played football all four years and baseball three years. He went on to captain the WLSC Hilltoppers, playing offense and defense and earning the honors of First Team All-WVIAC as an offensive lineman and First Team All-Conference as a defensive lineman.

​

Billiard, who also coached wrestling and track at Brooke and Wheeling Catholic Central High School, said through sports, youth learn both skills and good character. He added they also learn to balance the demands of school and sports.

​

Since his retirement in 2001, he has remained active in community service, helping to bring recognition of local veterans through his involvement in the Brooke County Veterans Memorial Park Foundation and new recreational facilities at Brooke Hills Park as a member of its board of directors.