WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — For Frank Zebrasky, West Liberty University was the place where a championship football season, lifelong friendships and an outstanding college experience helped lay the foundation for a career devoted to education, coaching and developing young people.

A 1982 graduate and member of the West Liberty Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2023, Zebrasky was a three-year starting quarterback for the Hilltoppers and played a pivotal role in one of the program's memorable seasons. His contributions to West Liberty football during the 1979 campaign helped the Hilltoppers capture a share of the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship.

Zebrasky's impact extended well beyond the quarterback position. In his first season as a starter, he also handled punting and placekicking duties as West Liberty overcame a slow start to win seven consecutive games. The Hilltoppers finished the season ranked No. 15 nationally and battled No. 10 Fairmont State to a 6-6 tie in the season finale, earning a share of the conference title. Zebrasky was named WVIAC Offensive Player of the Year and earned honorable mention NAIA All-America recognition after passing for more than 1,200 yards and leading the conference in scoring.

Over three varsity seasons, Zebrasky completed 348 of 687 passes for 4,196 yards and left West Liberty holding nine school records. His career included a 336-yard passing performance against West Virginia Tech on Nov. 1, 1981.

When asked about his favorite memories from his time on the hilltop, Zebrasky pointed to the 1979 championship season, his Offensive Player of the Year honor and his All-America recognition. He also remembers the people who helped shape his experience, including academic adviser Dr. John McCullough, athletic director Edgar Martin and coaches John Westenhaver, Carmine Cortazzo and Jim Pry.

Among his teammates, Zebrasky highlighted Tom Messich, Mark Murphy, Lance LaFollette, Randy "Wingnut" Elliott, Paul Peluchette and Tim Cortazzo. He also fondly remembered fellow Hilltopper and roommate Alex Paris III, whom he described as a strong supporter of West Liberty and Andy Richardson.

Zebrasky earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from West Liberty in 1982 and later completed a master's degree in special education at California University of Pennsylvania. After graduation, he returned to western Pennsylvania, beginning a career that spanned more than three decades in education and athletics at Washington, Canon-McMillan and Carlynton high schools.

His professional experience included teaching students with special needs at Carlynton High School from 2003-20, serving as defensive coordinator for Canon-McMillan football from 2003-11 and coaching baseball and girls basketball. After retiring from teaching, Zebrasky continued to stay involved in athletics, serving as an assistant varsity girls basketball coach at Chartiers-Houston High School beginning in 2021. He also enjoys spending time with his wife, Kelley McCartney Zebrasky, a fellow
West Liberty graduate from the Class of 1982, and their five grandchildren Jack, Zane, Luciana, Zia, and Josie.

Looking back on what his college experience means to him, Zebrasky said he is proud to be a West Liberty alumnus, adding that the university "set in motion a solid foundation to grow on in the real world."

His advice for current Hilltoppers reflects the same appreciation for the opportunities that shaped his own journey.

"Enjoy the experience of being a college athlete, develop lifelong friendships, and take advantage of a great academic experience at West Liberty," Zebrasky advised. "Always push to be the best at what you choose to pursue."

From a championship football season on the hilltop to decades spent teaching, coaching and encouraging young people, Zebrasky's story reflects the lasting influence of a West Liberty education. His connection to the university remains a source of pride — one built on achievement, relationships and a foundation that continued to serve him long after graduation.
 

(In the photo: Zachary, Kelley '82, Frank '82, Zane) 


Timeless Toppers Q&A: Frank Zebrasky '82

What sport did you play at West Liberty?
Football.

What was your major?
Business Administration. I earned my bachelor's degree from West Liberty in 1982 and later earned a master's degree in special education from California University of Pennsylvania.

What years did you attend West Liberty?
1978-82.

What are you doing now?
I retired from teaching students with special needs at Carlynton High School in Carnegie, Pennsylvania, where I worked from 2003-20. I also served as the school's head baseball coach from 2015-20 and previously worked as defensive coordinator at Canon-McMillan High School from 2003-11. Since 2021, I have served as an assistant varsity girls basketball coach at Chartiers-Houston High School. I also enjoy spending time with my wife, Kelley, and our five grandchildren.

What is your favorite memory of West Liberty?
Sharing the 1979 WVIAC football championship, being named WVIAC Offensive Player of the Year in 1979 and earning honorable mention NAIA All-America recognition.

What advice would you give current student-athletes and students?
"Enjoy the experience of being a college athlete, develop lifelong friendships, and take advantage of a great academic experience at West Liberty. Always push to be the best at what you choose to pursue."

What does it mean to be a West Liberty alumnus?
"I am proud to be a WL alumnus. It set in motion a solid foundation to grow on in the real world."

Who were the most influential coaches, administrators and teammates during your time at West Liberty?
Dr. John McCullough, my academic adviser; Edgar Martin, West Liberty's athletic director during my time at the university; and coaches John Westenhaver, Carmine Cortazzo and Jim Pry. Teammates who made a lasting impression included Tom Messich, Mark Murphy, Lance LaFollette, Randy "Wingnut" Elliott, Paul Deluchette and Tim Cortazzo. I also remember my fellow Hilltopper and roommate Alex Paris III, a big supporter of West Liberty.
 


West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.