Hall of Fame
An outstanding football player who is remembered as one of the WVIAC's all-time greats, Walt Willson made his mark in multiple sports at West Liberty during the late 1930s before going on to an illustrious military career.
Willson was a four-year regular with the Hilltopper football team (1937-40) who earned back-to-back All-WVIAC honors and was a two-year team captain. The speedy running back led the WVIAC and ranked No. 3 in the East in scoring with 11 touchdowns as a junior even though his longest touchdown scamper – an 85-yard sprint – was called back due to a penalty. In 1974, Willson was named to the All-Time All-WVIAC Football Team.
Along with his gridiron glory, Willson also had three strong seasons (1938-40) with the West Liberty baseball team and played basketball for two years (1937-38). The editor of The Trumpet student newspaper, he was also elected student body president.
Willson entered the United State Navy following graduation, serving honorably through World War II and the Korean Conflict. The West Liberty graduate enjoyed a long and distinguished military career, rising to the rank of Commander before retiring.
