Heidelberg Athletics Hall of Fame
No one has made their mark on Heidelberg athletics quite like John D. Hill. As an athlete, coach and administrator, Hill set standards for excellence.
During his senior year (1969-70) on the basketball court, Hill set single season school records for points per game (26.5) and field goals made (227) which still stand today. His 582 points scored were the most in a season prior to the three-point era. That same season was highlighted by a 43-point performance against Kenyon. He was named to the All-OAC Team and earned the Prugh Prize. Hill finished his athletic career with seven varsity letters...four in basketball and three in baseball.
In 26 seasons as head basketball coach, Hill amassed a record 357 victories and led the Berg to the only two NCAA Tournament appearances (1984, 1995) in school history. He was at the helm for nine of the 10 best seasons in 'Berg history including a 24-7 mark during the 1983-84 season. The 24 wins included an NCAA Tournament triumph over Hope College and shattered the school record for victories in a season. Prior to his arrival, the team had never won an OAC Tournament game but Hill changed all of that with 28 tournament victories. His career victories rank fifth all-time among OAC coaches.
Hill served as Heidelberg's Director of Athletics for 17 years and sat on numerous national committees. He restructured the athletic staff and helped organize the renovation of Seiberling Gym and many outdoor facilities. Six different varsity sports were added during his tenure. Throughout different points in his career, Hill coached golf, tennis, cross country and track & field at Heidelberg. He was also a professor in health & physical education and was chair of that department for 11 years.
A native of Tiffin, Hill is graduate of Columbian High School and a member of the school's athletic hall of fame. Hill has spent the last three years as athletic director at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia. Shenandoah has since seen major renovations to many of its athletic facilities.
(This profile appeared in the 2005 Hall of Fame Banquet program)
