Year Inducted – 1986

This strapping 6’3″, 200-pounder made himself known as one of the best catchers on the Akron sandlots in the 1940’s. “Big Bill” played in the East Akron youth leagues and continued his career as a receiver for the outstanding Post #209 and East High teams in 1939-40. During a three-year stintin the service, Bill played service ball and was recruited by the Boston Braves. However, the Braves’ offer was not enough to keep Bill on a pro course so he returned home to the A League and had outstanding seasons with Mains Post VFW 1070, Army-Navy Club, Lakemore Nite Club and Tiny’s Orphans. Leg injuries curtailed his career in 1950 but he returned to Hot Stove League action as a coach for seven more years, including two championship seasons.