How did you first get involved with the Terrapin Club?
Bill: I first joined in 1983 which was Boomer's senior year and Ross's second year. In 1982 the Terps were successful and finished the season 8-4. That's what caused me to join. It would go on to be a successful first year, as a season ticket holder and Terrapin Club member, I particularly remember a win over #3 UNC where the Tar Heels failed on a 2 point conversion. The students went on to rush the field and tore down the goal post before the game ended.
What motivates you to give so generously?
Bill: I give because I had a positive experience as an undergrad commuter student. In addition, I always was a big Terp fan. I like to give back to help the student-athletes in their sport and education.
Do you have a message you would like to share with other donors and fans?
Bill: I'd encourage everyone to join because it is a good social experience and it is a rewarding feeling to help Maryland student-athletes succeed on and off the field.
Do you have an anecdote about Maryland Athletics or the Terrapin Club that you would share?
Bill: A highlight of our membership and association with Maryland Athletics was attending the Orange Bowl in 2001 in Friedgen's first year. We attended a New Years Eve party with Coach Friedgen and even got to take pictures with him. For the game, Maryland jumped out to an early lead before eventually falling to Florida in Steve Spurrier's final game as coach. Despite the fact that Maryland lost the game, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Our flight home with other Terps fans included a stopover in Atlanta. After a delayed arrival there we learned that our flight out of Atlanta was canceled due to a rare snow and ice storm. The airline put us up for the night in a nice local hotel.
One additional basketball memory which was the Georgia Tech basketball game in 2010. That was the game where Greivis hit an apparent game winner just inside half court. The shot was waved off because Maryland had requested a timeout. On the ensuing inbound play Cliff Tucker hit a long three pointer to win the game.
Unfortunately Georgia Tech got revenge in an ACC Tournament quarterfinal. My son and I attended the tournament that year.
Who is on your Mount Rushmore of Maryland Athletics
Bill: Juan Dixon, Joe Smith, Buck Williams, Lamont Jordan
What do you hope Maryland Athletics will achieve this year?
Bill: I hope that the football team with a shortened season can finish with a winning record and make a bowl game. I'd also like to see men's basketball to be competitive, surprise some people, and earn a bid to the NCAA tournament.
If you could go back in time and witness one Terps game live (in any sport), what would it be and why?
Bill: We attended the Penn State football game in 1985. Going into that year, many people thought Maryland could be the #1 team in the country and compete for a title.The temperature the day of the game was 100 degrees and Maryland fell behind 17-0 early. The Terps made a fierce comeback only to fall just short and lose 20-18. It was a great opportunity to end a long losing streak against Penn State.
Another game I'd like to have seen in person in the 2002 men's basketball national championship.
What is the first Maryland game you ever went to?
Bill: I was about 12 years old and I attended a Men's Basketball game in the Bud Millikan era. I actually can't remember if we won or lost that day.
What do you want to see Maryland Athletics achieve moving forward?
Bill: I am looking forward to the opening of the practice facility. In addition, I hope to see us narrow the gap in football considering how difficult our division is. Hopefully we can also become more competitive in recruiting and increase donations.
What makes Maryland Athletics so special?
Bill: Maryland Athletics is special because of the atmosphere, the fans, the great players we recruit and the team results over the years. The Terps have pulled off many huge upsets over the years that keep things interesting.
