Coach Hill's HOF book

Roy Hill III— Lifetime Service to Wrestling Roy Hill’s exceptional career as a wrestling coach alone is more than enough to merit Hall of Fame recognition, but when one considers his contributions as a steward of the sport, his success in other sports, and his extraordinary accomplishments as a classroom teacher, the picture emerges of a man dedicated to the service of young people.

Coach Hill has been a loyal son of Hayfield Secondary School since 1980. As a studentathlete (Class of ’84), he excelled in three sports, as an All-District performer in football and baseball and a district champion/state qualifier in wrestling. He then became a three-sport VMI Keydet, receiving his B.S. degree in 1988.

Returning to Hayfield, he was a full-time biology teacher and head wrestling coach by 1992.

He proceeded to build one of the dominant wrestling programs in the Northern Region: his Hawks won 11 district/conference championships, 6 regional championships, and 4 top-five finishes at the state level. In 2013, he won his 300th dual-meet victory. For his sustained excellence, resulting in many of his wrestlers winning scholarships at dozens of colleges, Roy has been recognized throughout the years with honors too numerous to list completely, including the Washington Post All-Metropolitan Coach of the Year (2004) and the VHSL Order of Merit Award (2006).

His commitment to coaching extended to the “off-season” and Olympic-style wrestling also.

He has served as Director of the Gunston Wrestling Club since 1994; his teams have won numerous Greco-Roman and Freestyle state team and individual titles. He has held several coaching positions for Virginia USA Wrestling, AAU, and Junior National levels with great success.

The wrestling community quickly identified Coach Hill as a leader and entrusted him with many positions of responsibility. Just two examples of many: he represented Virginia on the National High School Wrestling Rules Committee from 1997-2000, and was elected by his peers to be President of the Northern Virginia Wrestling Coaches Association since 1998.

One particularly noteworthy episode that shows him to be the ultimate “full-service” coach was a sudden vacancy that he filled in 2009, when he stepped in mid-season to the high-profile job of head football coach. After finishing that season with four wins and a loss, Coach Hill took his 2010 squad to the regional football final and playoff appearances in the three years following before stepping down as Hayfield’s winningest football coach by percentage.

Finally, Roy Hill is a terrific teacher. He was the 1997 Teacher of the Year at Hayfield, and most impressively, a finalist for Fairfax County Public Schools Teacher of the Year in 2002.

Coach Hill, You mean so much to so many! This book is only a small sample of the lives that you have shaped, molded and influenced.

Thank you for what you sacrifice as a coach, mentor, psychologist, reverend, physician, and pseudo-father! We are blessed to have you in our lives!

Photo Credits to: Rob Currie

Date: April 16, 2015 From: Les Gutches, Associate Executive Director, USA Wrestling To: Roy Hill Re: Recognition

Dear Roy Hill, On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff at USA Wrestling, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your years of service as a USA Wrestling State Chairman and coach. During your tenure, USA Wrestling programs in the state of Virginia expanded and improved. Many young lives are better as a direct result of your tireless efforts to promote the sport and create opportunities where none existed.

We appreciate your leadership and everything you have done for wrestling in Virginia and beyond. Your induction into the Virginia Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame is well deserved

Sincerely,

Les Gutches Associate Executive Director USA Wrestling

Coach Hill embodies the ideals of high school athletics. One of Coach Hill’s greatest strengths is his ability to work with any student/athlete that walks through the wrestling room door. Regardless of ability or experience, Coach Hill is able to maximize all of his wrestler’s abilities. While the Hayfield community appreciates all of Coach Hill’s work on the mat, his work with his student/athletes off the mat has to be emphasized. Many of his current and former athletes will testify that he has changed and shaped their thinking and motivation in ways that have truly impacted them for a lifetime. We are very proud to call Coach Hill our coach, and we are very proud to call him a Hall of Famer.

Martin Grimm Principal, Hayfield Secondary School

The Hayfield Student Activities Office is so proud to see Coach Roy Hill receive this welldeserved wrestling coach honor. It takes a great coach to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Roy truly gives everything back to the kids in our community with the aspirations of making a successful and positive experience for them, and it shows in the countless number of student athletes lives that he has positively impacted. Roy not only encourages them to do be the best they can be and work hard, but also instills a sense of pride and commitment in everything they do. Coach Hill is more than a coach in the corner; he’s their biggest fan, their chauffer, their confidant, and a part of many families. Coach Hill as we say bleeds orange! As a Hayfield grad coming back to his Alma matter has proven to be a perfect fit. In his over 20 years as a teacher, youth league coach, baseball coach, football coach, and wrestling coach, the number of lives that have been impacted in a positive manner are remarkable.

-E.W. Nowland DSA, Hayfield Secondary School

To whom it may concern: It is a great honor to nominate Coach Roy Hill III for a Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame - Virginia Chapter. Coach Hill’s resume speaks for itself and greatly exceeds the criteria expected for this award.

Coach Hill has led a successful High school program for 23 years as head coach at Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria, VA, winning many team titles and innumerable individual accomplishments. His club, Gunston wrestling club, has reached thousands of athletes, affording kids opportunities at every level, nationwide, regardless of their high school affiliation.

Roy has also demonstrated great leadership in our sport at the local, national and international levels winning awards recognizing his coaching prowess and his spirit in volunteerism. Roy has been involved in the sport for 33 years as an athlete and a coach, and he has been coaching in Northern Virginia for 25 years.

Roy has volunteered to lead multiple organizations. He has led the Northern Virginia Wrestling Coaches Association since 1998, he was the State Chairman of the Virginia Wrestling Association (USA Wrestling) for 13 years (1999 – 2012) making our state highly competitive and nationally well respected. He was a member of the National High School rules committee, staying on the committee for four years (1997-2000). In 2003, he was named the Northern Virginia Wrestling Coach of the Year by Journal Newspaper, and in 2004 he was honored as the Washington Post All-Metropolitan Area Wrestling Coach of the Year. He was a 2002 recipient of Excellence in Volunteerism award by FILA, the international governing body of amateur wrestling for the Olympic Games. Off the mat, he was awarded the 2002 Fairfax County Public Schools Robert “Bud” Spillain award for Going above and Beyond in volunteerism spirit. And he was also a finalist for the 2002 Fairfax County teacher of the year.

Above all else, Roy’s passion in life is the development of student-athletes and coaches. He has mentored a myriad of coaches and athletes into becoming successful. Many coaches under his tutelage have moved on to be effective head coaches, and the amount of athletes who have wrestled for Roy and made the decision to coach at the youth, high school and college level shows his commitment to mentorship. As importantly, there are literally countless athletes who can attribute their success in life and in our sport directly to Coach Hill! As I interviewed him regarding his career, Roy’s ledger of athletes who have had success in college is astounding. Students who have received college scholarships, athletically and academically, including over 15 appointments to military academies, is staggering.

(As a side note. Roy provides opportunities for athletes to compete or view wrestling events around the country by packing up his large conversion van with athletes and parents and putting hundreds of thousands of miles on the road! Last year over 150 people donated an average of $200 (some much more) to purchase a fifteen passenger van so Coach Hill allow more opportunities for kids.)

Roy continues to tirelessly work in the sport, and Roy’s involvement has greatly enhanced the development of our sport in every facet. Without him, our sport and our community would be less.

Thank you for your time. Yours in Wrestling: Bryan Hazard Robinson Secondary School

September 19, 2014

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing this letter on behalf of one of Roy Hill for inclusion to the Virginia Wrestling Hall of Fame. I have been a teacher, coach and administrator for twenty-five years in Fairfax County Public Schools, and in that time I have written many letters of recommendations. Some requests I have declined to write, feeling that the person had not put forth the effort to warrant such a letter. Some letters have been written with mild endorsements, while others have received my full support for their accomplishments. Occasionally, I have been fortunate to know a person who makes such an impression on me that I seek out that person and request the honor of writing a letter of recommendation for them. Roy Hill is such a person. To say that Roy exceeds teaching/coaching expectations does not justify the effort he puts forth. Roy’s attitude towards academic achievement and high character is an example for all students and those who come in contact with him to follow.

Roy and I first meet in 1989 as assistant coaches for Hayfield Secondary School under John Tompkins.

Through the years Roy and I have coached together on the JV and Varsity levels as assistants and as friends and colleagues. During this long lasting friendship I have observed Roy go beyond and above in his work with students, athletes and parents. Roy takes his profession very seriously whether it is teaching Biology, coaching football, baseball or wrestling. He installs in those around him a work ethic that is beyond reproach. You would be hard pressed to work harder than Roy Hill.

During his tenure as the head wrestling coach at Hayfield, Roy has mentored countless young men and women in what it means to be a stand up individual. He does this by giving them life lessons each and every day.

Many of the young people who have entered the “Mat Room” at Hayfield have gone on to attend college, serve our country in the military as officers and enlisted personnel and become upstanding business people within their community. The evidence of Roy’s work is the continual flow of former students who come back to Hayfield and “give back” to the man who helped them and “give back” to the program that embraced them.

There is no other person who is more deserving of this very prestigious honor than Roy Hill. To have Roy Hill associated with any program is a stamp of approval and recognition. It is my extreme pleasure to recommend Roy for inclusion in this most esteemed organization.

Respectfully, Robert R. Bowman Hayfield Secondary School (703) 924-7480

Mary Allan 5704 Buckingham Palace Court Alexandria, VA 22315 Re: Roy Hill

I am writing to tell you of the many fine qualities and characteristics of wresting Coach Roy Hill. I have known Roy for over thirty years. He is a colleague, classmate, friend, mentor and was the wrestling coach for my twin sons during their four years in high school.

Roy is an exceptional man. Characteristics that can be used to describe Coach Hill are dedicated, loyal, kind, honest and generous. He has dedicated his life to teaching his students and athletes that nothing is impossible. With the hard working values that he instills, nothing is out of reach. He expects and commands excellence from everyone he teaches or coaches.

Not only in the classroom or on the mat, but in the community as well. He is an inspiration to everyone he comes in contact with. He exhibits the utmost integrity. He has directed troubled youth down the right path with the high morals and characteristics he exhibits. Through his many contacts, endless hours of campus visits and phone calls, he has made college a reality for some athletes who never thought it was possible. He is always commanding more.

Through the leadership he exhibits his former wrestlers have gone on to successful careers.

These careers includes military officers, lawyers, doctors, teachers, accountants and engineers.

I highly recommend that Coach Roy Hill be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He is a man of numerous character traits. I am proud to call him a friend. Through his loyalty and dedication to the sport, he has made a tremendous impact in the wrestling community both on and off the mat. Today’s society needs more people like Roy Hill.

Sincerely, Mary Allan

Few people are as respected, admired, or well liked as Hayfield Wrestling coach and mentor, Roy Hill.

His coaching accolades speak for themselves; multiple District and Regional team titles, All-Americans, State Champions, and a career wins record matched by few in Virginia. Coach Hill has done all of this while providing the highest level of competition he could find for his athletes. There have been few “soft spots” in his yearly schedule.

Coach Hill has worked tirelessly to improve the state of Virginia wrestling through his work on national boards for health, rules, and technique. His leadership as Director of VAWA (Virginia Wrestling Association) saw our state increase its number of All-Americans at the Junior National Championships in Fargo, ND, considered by many to be the toughest high school tournament in the world and a show case for college bound athletes. In this endeavor, Coach Hill worked not only with student-athletes from his own school, but those from around the state.

The actual coaching is the smallest part of what makes Coach Hill a strong candidate for the Virginia Hall of Fame. His boundless energy and personal code of ethics has made his room a haven for students who otherwise struggle; financially, emotionally, or academically. His track record for getting his athletes prepared for college and the love and respect accorded him is unparalleled. I can speak from experience when I say that my own son, a four year varsity wrestler and colligate athlete, owes much of his success to the moral as well as technical lessons he learned in Coach Hill’s room.

Coach Hill is a man to be admired and emulated. He is kind, demanding, stern, and gentle. The Hall of Fame is a deserving place for him.

Respectfully,

Phil Cronin

Dear Sir, It’s with great pleasure that I write to you expressing my gratitude and inspiration regarding Coach Roy Hill.

His commitment and dedication to wrestling, and even more importantly, to the young men and women he has coached over the last 25 years, is second to none. He has been a teacher, mentor, counselor, psychologist and even a father to many of these athletes and many who were not wrestlers who attended his high school. It was common for Roy to help these wrestlers attend practices and tournaments as far away as Las Vegas and Oklahoma. Many of them did not have the resources to travel but Coach Hill never let that be a reason not to wrestle. He would load them up in his van and drive two or three days straight, paying for meals and hotel rooms, in order for the boys to compete. He was the original “Beat the Streets” wrestling team for Northern Virginia, only he called it the Gunston Wrestling Club.

Some of these former wrestlers are now serving in our armed forces, Some have become doctors, lawyers, and managers of their respective companies. They are fathers with children teaching their kids the values that Coach Hill instilled in them. Coach Hill is an excellent role model as both a coach to wrestle for and coach to wrestle against. He is a trusted friend, colleague, and competitor. Over the last 25 years I have observed him in many situations and I can genuinely say that he is a man of integrity. He has always served the athletes without any strings attached. Unconditionally, he has given himself to these young men regardless of where they attended school or what type of athlete they were.

In contentious seed meetings, association discussions, or the common disputes that arise through competition, I can say without any doubts that Coach Hill did what was best for wrestling and the athletes. I appreciate him for doing this. He exemplified how to be a passionate coach without letting his emotions get in the way. People trust him because he walks the walk. It wasn’t the easiest path but it was the right one and he always did it with dignity and class. When I think of Coach Hill I think of the late legendary coach, Tom Landry. He has many of those virtues that we all respect and aspire to be like. The lessons he has taught and the structure and support he has provided has changed the lives of hundreds of people. Based off of his character alone, I cannot think of a more qualified wrestling coach deserving of this great honor. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Charles W. Hoskins

Gonzalo Tomas Ovalle 7646 Chancellor Way Springfield VA 22153

To whom it many concern: I have had the pleasure of knowing Roy Hill III for the last 20 years of my life in which I credit him with making me the man I am today. I am proud and honored to nominate Coach Roy Hill for Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of FameVirginia Chapter.

I have had several coaches throughout my wrestling career, but there is only one whom I refer to as a “major life influence,” even to this day. Not only was he my primary wrestling coach from 7th through 12th grade, but a much needed father figure. He was the rock that provided stability during a tumultuous time period in my personal life. I was always told that I was not college material, but thanks to the efforts and guidance of Coach Hill, I received a wrestling scholarship to, and graduated from Virginia Tech.

Coach Hill is the most generous and humble person I have ever met. As I’m sure you’ve gleaned from other’s letters, he is responsible for the success of many students who otherwise would have fallen through the cracks. He has dedicated countless hours, months and even years, to ensure that his student athletes become the best they can be both on and off the mat by providing them with countless opportunities. Someone once told me, “that anybody who goes through Coach Hill’s program, may start as a boy, but will walk out a man.” He is much more than just a wrestling coach, he is a great man that leads by example, modeling: discipline, desire, dedication and determination.

Life has come full circle and I now find myself coaching alongside Roy Hill. I have the opportunity to influence student athletes as he still does today. I’m still learning from him. I hope to follow in his footsteps, because to fill them would be impossible.

Please consider Roy Hill III for the “Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame-Virginia Chapter. No one deserves it more than him; he is a true maker of Men. Respectfully,

Gonzalo Tomás Ovalle gtovalle@fcps.edu

25 September 2014

Subject: Nomination of Coach Roy Hill to the Wrestling Hall of Fame – Virginia Chapter

To whom it may concern: Coach Roy Hill was not just my high school wrestling coach, but also my life coach. I wrestled for Coach Hill at Hayfield Secondary School from 1996-1999, and continued to train with him at the Gunston Wrestling Club through my college years. After graduating from college in 2004 I joined Coach Hill as an assistant wrestling coach at Hayfield and the Gunston Wrestling Club for 5 years. Throughout this time, Coach Hill not only helped me in attaining a sense of direction in life, but also taught me many valuable lessons, on and off the mat.

Coach Hill taught me that nothing in life comes easy and that one must work hard to reach their goals. He had a quote that he would always share with the team: “The reason most people fail instead of succeed is they trade what they want most for what they want at the moment.” I applied that statement throughout high school in working hard to accomplish my goals on the mat, and to this day I apply it to all aspects of my life. Coach Hill taught us that no matter how talented you are, one must work hard to accomplish their goals.

One of the most valuable lessons and characteristics that Coach Hill has exemplified was the caring and love that he demonstrates towards his athletes. No matter what your walk of life, rich or poor, black or white, win or lose; Coach Hill is always there to listen and help you through good times and bad times. He always assured that he had his athlete’s best interest at heart.

Coach Hill has dedicated his life to the sport of wrestling not just in making champions on the mat, but champions in life. Hard work, caring and loving others are just three of the many values that Coach Hill has instilled in my life, and the life of many others that have set foot in Hayfield wrestling room. One thing that I can attest is that I would not be the person I am today if I had not met Coach Hill. Coach Hill’s contributions in developing leaders, and his contributions to the wrestling community have earned him a spot in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Virginia Chapter.

Respectfully, Juan Carlos Sanchez

To whom it may concern: I am honored to have the privilege to nominate Coach Roy Hill III for a Distinguished Member / Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame - Virginia Chapter. Coach Hill has been a significant influence in my life in school, in wrestling and in civilian life, and I consider him a second father figure.

Coach Hill made sure I was keeping up with my schoolwork because he knew I had the potential to wrestle in college and I needed to do well academically. I attended Virginia Tech and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history. He alerted me to the fact that I had eligibility remaining and if I wanted to pursue a master’s degree I could continue to wrestle in college. I did pursue that option and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside with a Master’s in Business Administration degree. As part of my master’s program I had the opportunity to study in Brazil one summer. This is something I never would have experienced had I not pursued a master’s degree.

Coach Hill demanded excellence from me if I was going to wrestle for him and the lessons he taught me have stayed with me during my young life. He taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to push myself beyond what I thought I was capable of doing. As a result, during my four years at Hayfield High School, my class was the most decorated wresting team in school history. I wrestled at both Virginia Tech and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. After college I continued to wrestle and had the opportunity to wrestle in the 2010 US Open where I earned All-American status. In 2011, I wrestled in the World Beach Wrestling Championship in the Republic of Georgia, where I finished sixth. I have continued to follow Coach Hill’s example by volunteering to help coach at the Gunston Wrestling Club and at Hayfield High School.

The lessons I learned from wrestling translated to my life outside of sports. I joined the Maryland National Guard and graduated from basic training, then graduated first in my class from Officer Candidate School and first in my class from the Army’s Military Intelligence School. The discipline I learned and the desire to be the best have really paid off.

In civilian life I have an excellent job at Hewlett Packard because of my master’s degree and my military training. This would not be possible if Coach Hill had not pushed me to excel.

The interesting thing in all of this is that I am just one of the many student athletes from Hayfield High School that has gone on to wrestle in college (all the seniors in my class did), or has pursued a military career or been successful in civilian life. Coach Hill has meant a lot to me and my family and the wrestling families of Hayfield High School and the Gunston Wrestling Club.

Thank you for your time. Yours in Wrestling: 2LT Michael W. Delaney Maryland National Guard

To whom it may concern:

This letter is in support of the nomination for Roy Hill, III to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame – Virginia Chapter. I cannot speak for all the people that have had the privilege of knowing Coach Hill and what their own stories are of how he has touched their lives but, I am absolutely certain that they all share my sentiments for him. To this end, I wish to convey my story and thoughts about Coach Hill. Without a doubt he has left an indelible footprint on my life as a student athlete, coach, army medical officer, and more importantly as a person.

I was less than 4 feet tall and roughly 80 pounds when I first walked into the Hayfield Hawk’s wrestling room in 1996, looking to become the next WWE superstar. While the possibility of becoming a larger than life superstar never did quite work out for me, I managed to become a man that values working hard, dedication, commitment, and kindness to others. These values are in large part instilled in me due to Coach Hill. At that time I began the sport, I had no idea how ingrained the spirit of wrestling would become to my person and how it would carry me through good times and bad. Over the years Coach spent countless hours shaping my mental and physical faculties amounting to winning titles, placing at national, and even international events. While these are great accomplishments his work is far more remarkable then this. He provided an environment that fostered camaraderie through the time spent with my fellow wrestlers, respect in all that we do no matter if we win, lose, or draw. Finally he inspired confidence. This is none more evident than the moto “Hill trained”, which the wrestling team had adopted during my time spent coaching under Coach Hill’s tutelage. I can say without hesitation that his training has prepared me well in life, knowing this is satisfying. Experiencing firsthand the fruits of his labor, I have come to feel truly blessed to have been part of his program as an athlete and coach. Because of it, I am a better person. He tirelessly continues his efforts to prepare and provide opportunities for young man and women, equally. Many of whom have gone on to become great wrestlers, teacher, coaches, law enforcement officers, lawyers, doctors, and champions. In addition, many more will follow, so long as Coach is able.

Many regard him as more than a coach but as a father figure. He has always guided and supported those wrestlers in the most need. His passion and dedication to the sport is undeniable. His leadership is exemplary. His heart for giving to every one of the wrestling community is unconditional. As a healthcare professional, the level of compassion he has demonstrated throughout his career is worthy of emulation in my own. For if I am able to change the lives of at least one of my future patients’ the way coach has done for so many, I will know that I have succeed in continuing his legacy.

Coach Hill is more than deserving of this nomination and it is my sincerest wish that he is honored as a Distinguished Member/ Life Time Achievement Award for the Virginia Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Regardless of his selection, it is evident in my eyes that his self-less service will live in those that have known him.

With Great Pleasure,

Jochen Granja, 2LT US Army Reserve Medical Corp Hayfield Class of 2002

To whom it may concern: It is a privilege to know that Coach Roy Hill III has been nominated for a Distinguished Member/ Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame - Virginia Chapter. I cannot think of a better individual that is more deserving.

The definition of a father is, "a man who exercises paternal care over other persons; paternal protector or provider." This is the one word that I can use to define Coach Roy Hill III. During his 25 years of coaching he has had hundreds of children. When they walk in his doors they walk out as an improved individual. Most people do not understand; wrestling is not just a sport it is a lifestyle. You not only develop as an athlete on the mat but you develop as a person off the mat. This is one of the many things Roy has instilled in his children. He has always pushed them to reach their maximum potential and he has dedicated his life and resources to make all of his children better.

Over the years I've seen Roy put things in his own life on hold to help out others where needed. He has taken individuals into his home when needed, provided people opportunities to give back to society through volunteering, picked individuals up when they have been down, been a shoulder to cry on, believed in kids and adults when no one else would, and used his own money to help provide for others. Through all of this he has never once asked for anything in return. He keeps moving forward with his head held high, which is what makes him a great man. Even though Roy does not ask for anything in return some how his endeavors get repaid. These payments usually come in the form of alumni and parents constantly finding ways to give back. These individuals don't give back out of guilt, but out of respect for what Roy has done for them and their families. People give back because Roy has afforded them or their child the opportunity to graduate high school, to go to college, to travel, to believe in themselves and others, and to carry the hard work and dedication they have learned through wrestling into their way of life. Recently individuals in the wrestling community rallied together to purchase Roy a van so he could continue to provide opportunities to student athletes.

In my own personal life Coach Roy Hill has played an important part. In high school he used to tell us to, "be better tomorrow than you are today." This is something that has always stuck with me while wrestling in college and that I follow until this day. I still speak with Roy 14 years after I graduated high school and pay him the occasional visit. Like the definition of a father states, Roy has been that protector and provider for individuals for many years; whether he knows it or not. The things he does come from his heart and he never asks for anything in return. His coaching and his supportive nature show in high school graduates, college graduates, doctors, lawyers, military soldiers, police officers, government workers, teachers, athletes, and more. Roy will always continue to work hard for the sport of wrestling and the athletes that walk through his door. He does not work hard to gain personal satisfaction. He works hard because we are all his children.

Very Respectfully Jerome Villanueva

To Whom It May Concern: Anytime I have the opportunity to talk about Coach Roy Hill, I do. For 17 years Roy Hill has been my coach, my mentor, and my friend. Coach Hill’s record and many accolades on the wrestling mat speak for themselves, but it’s his life-coaching and mentoring off the mat that really set him apart from any other coach or person that has been part of my life.

The first time I saw Coach Hill is when I was a little kid watching my oldest brother’s wrestling match. This giant monster of a man immediately left an impression on me. I vividly remember the first time I heard him loudly giving guidance to his wrestlers on the mat. Everyone in that gym knew when Coach Hill was talking.

He had a command voice and presence that I’d never heard or seen. Little did I know, I would meet Coach Hill in 8th grade when I started wrestling.

I come from a big family with parents that instilled a great work ethic from the beginning. However, the mental and physical toughness that Coach Hill teaches is unmatched. I learned how to push myself beyond my limits, further than I ever thought was possible. After high school I took everything that Coach Hill taught me and used it for setting goals and working to achieve them. I had the opportunity to play football as a wide receiver for Virginia Tech. I owe much of my success there to Coach Hill. The easiest day in one of Coach Hill’s wrestling practices was more difficult than any practice I had at Virginia Tech. As a Captain in the US Army, I’ve been through some of the toughest training that the US military has to offer. I directly relate a great deal of my success in the military to Coach Hill. Without the physical and mental toughness that I learned from him, I would not be where I am today.

There is a reason that time after time, year after year, whenever a former wrestler or student is near Hayfield High School, they make an effort to go see Coach Hill. There is a reason that everyone calls him, not only on his birthday, but on Father’s Day as well. Whenever I’m home I always stop by to see Coach Hill, and when I’m away then a phone call is the next best thing. Even now, Coach Hill always ends every conversation by telling me how proud he is of me. Always the coach, always the mentor, always the friend, he never takes a break. Coach Hill is truly one of the best people I know.

V/R John Thibodeau CPT, SF 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne)

To whom it may concern: It is my pleasure to recommend Coach Roy Hill III for a Distinguished Member/ Lifetime Achievement Award for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Having being mentored, coached, and witnessing all the great deeds by this man, he has eclipsed the criteria for both honors.

Coach Hill has exemplified being a great Coach, but most importantly his greatest attribute is his immense character and moral integrity he demonstrates. I have known Coach Hill over 15 years, and over the years, I have seen wrestlers/students look to him as a father figure and role model. He has helped countless wrestlers transcend their life and exceed their own expectation.

Roy has devoted his time and energy to his student-athletes and wrestling family. He has shown his great dedication and generosity by driving wrestlers to tournaments all over the nation. He alone also drove one student athlete more than five hours away to view a college because that student had no one else.

Coach Hill not only helps kids on his wrestling team but will also lead a hand to anyone in need.

He has step forward and been a pillar of the wrestling community for so many years in Alexandria, VA. His life work can be seen everyday with all the student-athletes he molded to be high character and outstanding citizens. To this day he is in the room helping the next generation with the same enthusiasm and commitment he showed all of us 15 years ago.

Thank you for your time and consideration, Carlos Palacios

26 September 2014

To Whom It May Concern: It is with absolutely no hesitation that I vouch for the character of Coach Roy Hill. His dedication and sacrifice to ensuring the success of his students and athletes is beyond admirable, impacting the lives of many, to include my own.

As you know, wrestling is more than a sport. The discipline that it demands prepares its participants for life on and off the mat. That is what Coach Hill teaches and what he demonstrates in every aspect of his life, setting the same expectations for us all. I have fond memories of long road trips to various wrestling events, camps and team outings.

There are also the memories that I can only fully appreciate as an adult, such as the expectations to perform academically and ensuring we were where we were supposed to be when we were supposed to be there, as well as the surprise visit to my parents when I began to stray from the standards that were expected of all wrestlers.

Over the years Coach Hill has produced numerous champions, to include District, Regional, State and All Americans, some of whom went on to wrestle in college. While I wasn’t one of the top performers on the mat, I was one of the many who utilized Coached Hill’s lessons to excel off the mat. It is by applying these lessons which led me to further my education and obtain a college degree, to work my way into a senior manager position within one of the world’s top Information Technology firms, and to now own my own technology practice. I can say with full confidence that had it not been for Coach Roy Hill’s selfless dedication to his wrestlers, I may not have achieved what I have or become the individual that I am today.

Respectfully,

Demetrios Bursenos Hayfield Secondary School, Class of 2002

John F. Kennedy once said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” Of the men and women I know, Roy Hill understood this paramount. During my high school career Coach Hill became a pivotal figure of influence in my academic career as well as my personal character development.

The summer before my freshman year of High School at Hayfield Secondary, I saw the name “Roy Hill” written on my schedule adjacent to “Biology” for fifth period. I was nervous about the class, I had not found my niche in any subject in middle school and I was uneasy about my first high school level science course. The day classes began; I walked in, found my seat and sat down as the bell rang. Sitting at his desk in the front of the class was a great, sturdy man with a black goatee sprinkled with bits grey here and there. And when he spoke, his voice resonated throughout the room; however, it did this in a way that captivated you, not frightened you. He told us stories about his academic career, athletic endeavors, and introduced us to the many class pets he had which included a ball python, two lizards, and a large tortoise. I became engrossed in the biological curriculum, I loved coming to class excited to learn more about the study of life. Because of Coach Hill, I became exceptionally interested in the sciences, particularly biology and chemistry and the relationship between them. I remember vividly that whenever I had a question, he had an answer. When he answered my questions, it was as if he had rehearsed; the words came out crisp and clear. My senior year, I had an assignment for my AP biology course; it was on genetics, a topic I had not felt so comfortable with. Without having to ask him, Coach Hill offered me his help and I met him at a Federation Wrestling tournament over the weekend. We sat together at a table on the outskirts of the gym and we tackled each problem step by step. He showed me the different ways of recognizing certain genetic traits through advanced Punnett Square models.

I remembered that his teaching style was still my favorite. Through his influence, he has inspired me to pursue an education in biology.

Our relationship was not exclusively academic. I came to know him even better through wrestling. However, we do not have the typical relationship of wrestler to coach. I have never wrestled a single day in my life. After managing a season of football for Coach Hill, he asked if I would be interested in managing the wrestling team as well. I was hesitant at first. I had no knowledge of the sport prior to junior year; all I knew was that they had to wear a skintight get-up and some head safety thing. It was way out of my comfort zone, and I would be the only male manager, which I initially thought would be embarrassing. However, I had high regard for Coach Hill, so I told him I would try my best. My first tournament, I had not the slightest idea of what I was doing. My job was to do the individual and team statistics for the tourney, whatever that meant. I sat next to Coach Hill the entire time, listening to him coach from his corner while at the same time he helped me figure out what was going on during the match. After that tourney, and a few live practices, I had the scoring system down cold. A spark grew inside me. My interest for wrestling grew and I started to ask him about rules and technique, watch videos of Olympic Competition with him, and get familiar with the names of moves so I could follow a match more ardently. I soon found myself cheering and screaming almost as much a he would. Wrestling was a sport I had no former knowledge about, but within a few weeks, it became my favorite sport. After the high school season had ended, I learned quickly that although winter season had ended, wrestling season never ends.

The last week of June, I received a phone call from Coach Hill asking me to become the media representative for Team Virginia at the National Tournament in Fargo, North Dakota. I was elated to say the least. Going to nationals was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I spent the days with Coach Hill, watching matches learning more about wrestling everyday. I ask myriad questions everyday and he had an answer for every one. He helped me meet other coaches who shared the same passion for competition and the sport of wrestling. Through that experience, I had the honor of meeting wrestling greats such as Cael Sanderson and Dan Gable. None of those invaluable experiences would have happened had it not had been for Coach Hill.

To this day, he has never left my questions unanswered; and when he does not know immediately, he avers on finding the answer together. Coach Hill was my introduction to the world of biology and to the sport of wrestling. His instruction struck me so forthrightly, now four years later, I am pursuing a career in the field and I plan to attend nationals again this summer support Team Virginia. Biology and wrestling are two things that I want to be a part of my life forever, and neither of them would be a part of them at all had it not been for Roy Hill.

Sincerely,

Ben Genovese

To whom it may concern:

Coach Roy Hill’s career demonstrates the great positive influence wrestling can have on the lives of its participants. As a wrestler for Coach Hill’s Hayfield Hawks, I remember the demanding practices and the patient instruction that helped us learn to wrestle and develop a lifelong love for the sport, as well as an attitude and work ethic that continues to benefit our everyday activities.

I also remember the incredible generosity of time, energy and resources that Coach Hill gave to all of his wrestlers. Whether he was helping with school work, giving a wrestler a ride home after a late practice, or taking a team to see a college wrestling match, he always went well beyond the requirements of his job and sacrificed for his student athletes.

Coach Hill’s track record speaks for itself, not only in the number of championships his teams have won, but also in the academic, professional and personal accomplishments of his athletes. Nearly all of his student athletes have continued their education in college, many on athletic or academic scholarships. Many have served with distinction in the military. All have gotten the tools to succeed from Coach Hill.

In my opinion, Coach Hill exemplifies the qualities that make wrestling great: determination, sacrifice, and discipline, and would be a well-deserved addition to the Virginia Chapter of the Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Sincerely, Louis Pavia Hayfield class of 2003

April 6, 2015

Coach Hill, Congratulations on your induction into the Wrestling Hall Of Fame! You deserve it and much more. I just wanted to write and make sure to thank you for all of the support and coaching you have given me over the years. You pointed out the things I needed to work on without ever making me doubt your faith in my abilities, which strengthened the faith I had in myself. I don't think I truly appreciated your unique ability to design and run a great practice until I got my chance to run a workout, an experience that opened up a whole new world of respect for your patience and skills. I know that I will always hold your opinions and judgments in the highest regard. Inspiration comes in various forms and from various sources, but in my life it is a five letter word, C-O-A-C-H. Thanks for being my inspiration.

Tomas Ovalle Class of 2001

To Coach Hill, 10 years ago from this past winter, I remember meeting one of the most influential mentors in my life.

It was in my sophomore year and Yorktown high school arrived to Hayfield for a Wednesday night quad, and the only match I can remember was against Chris Hummer. I do not recall this match being a barn burner by any means, Chris did all but pin me that night. However, when the whopping ended, I clearly remember shaking your hand with a grin on your face. Fast forward to that 2004-2005 offseason at MAWA, I had lost first round in that tournament in a close pigtail match and was eliminated. I clearly remember Joe snatching me up, tears freshly pouring out my eyes, and rushing me to your corner, as you were coaching Steven, and forcing me to pledging my allegiance to Gunston wrestling club and I would be at every practice. Obviously, the rest is now history.

Too often have I seen countless kids come to our corner and inform you that they will be coming to club, and still I have always been impressed by amount that do and do not come in. In addition to the amount of people that come up to you every tournament, NO MATTER WHICH STATE, there is always someone giving thanks. You have built a peaceful army of self-motivated winners who are forever in debt for the sacrifices that you have made and are still making. I always ask you “Does it ever bug you out to see how many kids you have helped? It has to be a discussing number!?” and in the most humble way, you seem chuckle and smile inside. The past two and a half years coaching under you and Tomas have been lessons and adventures that cannot be replaced by any program in this country. The firm bond MatHawk’s hold is not made by simply wearing their orange and black warm ups, but foraged through the battles we suffer. Too many times I have seen kids like Devin (Devin being the extreme example) or Kalib earn the respect of their peers by having the courage to sell out on the mat. They love to hate mediocrity or God given talent and only accept hard working passionate workers, which is a generational trait that has been passed on by your foundation.

Due to my work schedule, it has blessed and cursed me for this program. My time seems to be exclusive to only the regular season, and like all good things, it’s never enough. I only wish to be in Virginia with you this weekend to watch and be a part of the celebration, and as you know I am truly sorry. However, the adventures seem to never end for you or I. Although I do not know what the future holds for me, I know that the MatHawks will always be there.

If you get this letter before the ceremony, please take a moment when your there to be selfish and relish in the moment. Due to the fact that you are the most selfless person I have ever met. This is a once in a life time celebration of your accomplishments not only as coach but as one of the greatest influential people in Virginia coaching history. However, you are more than that to me. You have influenced my High school career, gave me my college career, and lead me through my coach career. There is no way to measure how grateful I am to have met you. Congratulations to your great accomplishment as being one of the Greatest Coaches in Virginia history.

Enjoy Coach Hill Love ya Andrew J. Gavin

Roy Hill, To a man that gives so much to everyone and asks very little in return. He is a mentor and a friend. He has changed so many lives around him. He is the epitome of what an educator is to be.

When I met Roy Hill I didn’t expect a man with the heart of gold and a commitment to the community like he has, but that is who I met. A man that makes me smile knowing that he is helping lead the next generation for our country.

Roy, you have personally helped me in many different ways. You’ve never asked, “what’s in it for me?” You are an excellent example of why I chose the profession I have. You make the world a better place and you truly care about those around you. It is everything that I wanted to become when I entered coaching. It’s also the goal that reenergizes and recharges me after tough times in this profession.

Thank you for being the man you are and for what you’ve done, for so many over the years.

Those who know you, or have had the pleasure of working with you at some point in time understand how special you are.

Thanks for being a friend and for doing all you do!

G.Teague Moore G. Teague Moore American University Head Wrestling Coach

Coach Hill, Congrats on your induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

This is a honor that is well deserved! I have seen firsthand the impact that you had on countless student athletes lives as a role model, parent and coach. I look forward to following your teams and athletes for years to come. By the way send us Antonio Agee!

Steve Martin Head Wrestling Coach Old Dominion University Wrestling Office-Athletic Administration Building Norfolk, VA 23529 smartin@odu.edu Cell: 757-373-6177 Fax: 757-683-4996 "Building Champions on and off the mat"

Roy Hill – Congratulations on a well deserved induction into the Virginia Hall of Fame!

I’ve had the pleasure to be around you for a number of years. I was fortunate enough to be a member of your Fargo coaching staff, where I was able to learn a lot from your management style. You have a knack for placing people in the right situations to get the most out of them.

I believe as coaches, we chase titles, but more importantly, we change lives for the better. We teach them to set goals and work to accomplish them. We teach them the process of success.

Ultimately, we work hard daily to develop young people into productive citizens of our country.

You have probably never sat down to realize the number of lives you have impacted through the sport of wrestling and a genuine care for those individuals… both athletes and coaches.

Everything you have put into them… The long hours, the travel, the organization of a year around program all for the good of others.

Congratulations again Coach! You are a selfless person with an unparalleled passion and I am honored to have worked with you.

Lee Pritts Arizona State University Assistant Wrestling Coach

Where to begin to tell our story of Coach Hill... it started because Calvin's best friend's brother was a football player!

We were a baseball family. The fall of 8th grade the two best friends had tired of the game, but as parents, we wanted them still do something.

"Let's go wrestle" with a silly tone came from his friend whose older brother was wrestling to be a better football player. That's how we heard about Jr. Hawks.

Calvin turned out to be a natural despite his late introduction to the sport.

One Saturday Calvin met his future nemesis on the mat- Mike Waters. I took one look at Waters and feared for Calvin's future. It was quite a match that everyone in gym came to watch. I didn't understand but apparently Waters usually pinned. Calvin lost, but it was the beginning of his future and they continued to have more memorable matches throughout their high school careers.

Coach Hill took Calvin down to the Middle School Championships... without us?! Calvin did well, despite sleeping through a match. When Coach Hill filled us in on the tournament, he told us that part with his famous chuckle!

And then we figured out what we had casually fallen into- one of the best wrestling programs with one of the best coaches! I want to say THE best but don't want to brag!!

Calvin went on to win lots of matches and many titles. He went on to wrestle at college, his dream university of study, made possible because of wrestling.

Next our daughter Cameron spent her high school years managing Coach Hill's teams. She became extremely knowledgeable about the sport and her time there taught her much about organizational and management skills that have carried on to her college days and her professional career today.

As for us, we were thrilled to have Coach Hill in our children's lives. We volunteered for anything. It was the best way for us to thank him. Here was a man dedicating himself to our son- to quote Coach "Don't know whether to hug him or kick him?!" - and we didn't realize to what extent until Calvin's senior year and his quest for a State title to finish his career.

Coach brought in his former 189 State Champ and another adult volunteer to work exclusively with Calvin. We had no idea. I came into practice and saw that Coach Hill was talking with the team; Calvin was working out in a corner. When I asked the question of why, I nearly cried. I will never forget that moment.

But our story is a bit different. Calvin had a supportive family, two parents at home, financial stability and was an Honor/AP student on the Regional Honor Roll. He truly had an easy life in the big scheme of things.

But a lot of the boys did not have this. They had/have Coach Hill. He has been a father figure to so many of his boys. He has had them sleep on his sofa, picked them up from home to get them to class on time, driven them all over the country for matches and/or to be inspired by All American wrestlers at all levels! He has saved many of these boys from going down the wrong path.

Coach Hill IS Hayfield Hawks Wrestling. He is coach, teacher, nurse, counselor, cheerleader....

We cannot thank him properly for being a part of our lives, the lives of all those boys past, present and future and for the sport of wrestling.

We love you Coach Hill and we are so proud to have had the opportunity to be part of your wrestling career.

With gratitude and love, - The Cardillo’s Lori, Robert and Nic, Calvin and Cameron.

Coach Hill has always been more than a coach to so many wrestlers who have come up through his programs. He is a father-figure, a mentor, a confidant, and always our biggest, most supportive fan. He is a friend when you are down and, even more importantly, a critic when you need it most. He challenges you to be better on the mat and the best off of it. He always strives to make his wrestlers successful in life before being successful on the mat and has always taught that what you do off the mat will impact you most on it. He has dedicated countless hours in the room or on the road with his teams and does it with a smile, a chuckle, and sometimes a shake of his head as he looks after 20 high school kids running amuck on trips. Thousands of men and women are who they are today because one way or another Coach Hill has touched their lives - on the mat, in the classroom, or just chatting in the hall -- and because of this we are all better people because of him. His dedication, work ethic, and loyalty inspires all of us to do more, be better, and aim higher. Coach Hill epitomizes every quality you would want in a teacher, a friend, and a coach -- we could not thank him enough for all he has done and will continue to do.

-Calvin Cardillo

OVATION FOR COACH ROY HILL! The past two years have given me the chance to watch Coach Hill in action. My son, James, wrestled his freshman year and grew to absolutely cherish Coach Hill's opinion and coaching. I found Coach Hill to be different than other coaches I have encountered, either as a student myself, and as a parent. He is loving, kind, tolerant, understanding, and compassionate. Yet, he is also driven, firm, academic and anchored in his personality and teaching methods. He teaches the wrestlers the values most important to wrestlers and in life in general: How to win with humbleness; How to lose with good sportsmanship; How to remember academics come first. I have watched these boys, including my own son, grow into young men while in Coach Hill's presence. He treats them with true and complete respect and he earns theirs in return. They work hard and do well because the very nature of Coach Hill just being Coach Hill inspires you to work hard and do well.

And even though my son did not wrestle his second year, he and I both volunteered our time to Coach Hill and the wrestling team in whatever capacity he needed us. Many asked us, "Why would you when you aren't even wrestling this year?" Our response is always a resounding "Because we love and respect Coach Hill and his very Being drives us to want to help him and the team. He loves these boys and they love him back." This level of admiration and respect is earned by very few.

His indoctrination into the Hall of Fame is a well-deserved glory. He is an excellent coach with many victories to his name. His wrestlers are encouraged by his tremendous wrestling skill and are honored to learn from him. His formidable knowledge of wrestling, his ability to impart this knowledge, and his ability to earn unwavering respect and admiration of his wrestlers places him at the top in my book. I believe Coach Hill epitomizes what a teacher and coach should always strive to be. Hayfield Secondary School is lucky to have such a person in its presence.

With greatest pleasure and respect, Bobbi and James Green

Date: 4/9/15 Coach Roy Hill Hall of Famer Virginia Wrestling Dear Coach Hill: Personally, I don't know where to begin. In thinking of all the great things to say about you I am taken back.

You were literally the key person in my life from the beginning, through my growth, and my development into the person I am today. So it’s funny because, in a sense it’s like I am writing my own autobiography. Coach, do you remember me being covered in dirt and playing with toy trucks in your wrestling room when I was just a tiny person? Well I don't, but I never go a couple days in your presence without being reminded of it and how you had to clean up after me. I do, however, remember the countless amounts of trips we went on across the country. That big conversion van we drove around in with the red interior that I always managed to run the battery down in from playing too many games or watching movies when we stopped for a little or my attention sored. Come to think of it, maybe my dad, Rick Jones, got the idea of that bulky car from you, so not to worry, it was his burden from then on!

Still today I often tell people of the times that I had growing up, and of the moments I had in my life with you in my corner molding me with every word and every assurance. I know it has been such a long time since I have seen you and an even longer time since we were together for nationals or the offseason. But the funny thing about time is, we can never get it back or relive what we have already lived, but it will never tarnish my memory of the things you said to me or the comfort you have given me in my lowest times, and I feel that is what makes time important, and I’ll take that over reliving it any day. I can still feel your arm around my shoulders and your honest reassurance filtering through my mind, it is truly the stuff movies are made out of, heroes are born from, and movements made possible.

Coach, there are very few people in this world, in my life, that I can surely call the greatest people I have ever met, and you are undoubtedly one of them. Words cannot express how happy I am for you and how insane I am about the time we have shared and the camaraderie we forged. I am honored to have and to still continue to call you my coach, and now my friend Sincerely, your most admiring pupil,

Wes Jones

P.S. I still can’t figure out how you wiggle your ears… it’s really not fair.

Coach Hill, This honor is long overdue, you are a great man that has saved so many lives directly and indirectly. A lot of the life lessons I heard you talk about I now pass on to my kids.

Thanks to you I strive to give all that I have to the sport and the kids I work with like I know you have over the countless years you have been in this sport.

I will keep this short and close of with saying thank you. Thank you for opening your doors to me and making me work for all the things you allowed me to be apart of.

MarcAntoni Macias Beat The Streets Men's Head Coach 145 Thompson St New York, NY 10012 212-777-5702 -- Office 571-329-5221 -- Cell

Coach Hill, All grown up and I still call you “Coach”, I think that is a common theme amongst athletes that have had the honor of you sitting in their corner on the wrestling mat or standing on the sideline of the football field. I was blessed to have you enter my life at a young age and serve as one of my first mentors and lifelong friends. Many times I lost focus in life and strayed away from what was right and you guided me back onto the path of righteousness the way a lighthouse steers sailors away from danger. When I had problems that I felt I could not turn to anyone else for help with including my parents, you were always there for me. I have witnessed you change many young men’s lives and served as a father figure for some, you are a pillar of strength and morality for others to follow.

Though we might not speak or see each other every day, I want you to know that your voice has always been a whisper in my ear through the years whenever I have encountered tough situations. You taught me many life lessons but the one that stands out the most in my mind is mental toughness. I have never been scared to fail or attempt things that others say are “hard” or impossible because you impressed upon me the importance of being mentally tough. You see things in people that they are not ready to see in themselves and you drive them in the direction of success. They say Ranger School is the toughest leadership school in the ARMY and though I was recycled and spent six months in said “Hell” not one day there was as tough as a day of practice. I never won States in highschool and endured some losses on the mat that would follow me throughout the rest of my life, but it was those losses that taught me the most about myself. You told me that in defeat we learn the most about ourselves; will we quit or get back up and try again. I cried when I lost states in overtime my senior year and I cried each time I recycled in Ranger school but I never quit. I wrestled back to take third at states and I endured six months in Ranger School to get my Ranger Tab, all due to the fact that you told me to never quit. You were the voice in my head pushing me to get back up and try again and for that I cannot thank you enough.

You reinforced the values that my parents taught me at home when I was younger and for that my parents have you to thank. You taught me to set goals, create a plan to accomplish those goals and then vigorously set out on a path to achieve those goals. You told me to never let myself get comfortable “Comfortable is nice but it doesn’t get you anywhere” and though I may have been a late bloomer those truths have followed me throughout the course of my life, and account for most if not all of my successes.

It is hard to find the words to describe the impact that you have had on my life but I think this scripture describes it well. “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.” Hebrew 12: 11-13 Love You Coach Johnny Villanueva (El Niño)

Coach Hill, I wanted to thank you for your devotion to wrestling, teaching, being a man and a leader. Over the last several years I’ve seen you not only turn athletes into champions, but most importantly into men. Now whether that contribution was large or small you contributed in some type of way. This is evident in the fact that time and time again there are college graduates/students, workforce professionals, and fathers constantly showing up at Hayfield. I don’t believe these people come back to see you because they feel they owe you something, but because they want to.

It has been 15 years since I graduated from high school and I constantly find myself coming back to Hayfield Wrestling. I love being in that room and helping out when I can. The things I’ve learned from you inside the room and out will always play a part in who I am. I will continually use those lessons learned and pass them on to others. Coach Hill you deserve the recognition with the Wrestling Hall of Fame, but know that a lot of us have recognized your deeds for many years.

Thank you for being a coach, mentor, friend, and for everything you have done and will do!

Sincerely,

Jerome Villanueva

Dear Coach Hill,

I just wanted to thank you for the time spent several summers on the Virginia Cadet/Junior Greco and Freestyle Teams through 1996-1998. The memories of training camp, traveling, competition, and being around some great friends during those hot summers will last a life time. Like me, all of the other athletes learned so many life lessons, such as self-control, perseverance, preparation, and outstanding work ethics. Your devotion to the Virginia Cadet/Junior Greco/Freestyle Teams over the many years is incredible and I am very grateful to be a part of those teams for only a short period of time.

Your commitment is not only on the Virginia Cadet/Junior Nationals Teams, but also in Hayfield Secondary School’s Wrestling Program and classrooms. As I was appreciative for being coached by you, I have heard many other astounding stories from former Hayfield wrestlers and students. One hundred percent of those stories were nothing but positive words. Your commitment to the Greco-Roman and Freestyle Teams, Hayfield Secondary School Wrestling Program and classroom will thrive forever. Coach Hill thank you for giving me the love of the sport of wrestling, being a positive influence for me and many others and the countless hours you have put in.

Thank you, PJ Neumann, Jr.

Coach Hill, Congratulations! I wanted to thank you for all that you have done for me and everyone else from Gunston wrestling club. You not only helped me become a better wrestler, but have helped me become a better man. Your wise words of wisdom and advice have helped me in some of the toughest times in my life.

Thank you for always being there for me when I sought out your advice. I also owe much of my success in my wrestling career to you. From running us through treacherous practices to driving across the country to wrestle in tournaments, you have been instrumental part of countless wrestlers’ development. I will always remember your legendary pre-match slaps that to this day still have my head rattling or you insane dedication that lead you drive us across the country to wrestle in tournaments. Thank you, for everything that you have done for me and all other Gunston members.

Sincerely, Robert Dooley

April 15, 2015

Dear Coach Hill: In today’s world not many people are a fortune as we are to have such a great friend, coach, leader and mentor in our lives. We go back quite a few years, but I am so grateful that my own children have had such a wonderful role model in their lives. We can’t thank you enough for all of your time and dedication. You are a true inspiration.

You have played a huge part into the successes Mark and Matthew had in high school and continue to guide them into the next chapter. They look forward to your words of wisdom, advice and encouragement. You always have the correct answer no matter what the situation is. Thank you for everything you have done. You are a remarkable man.

Fondly, The Allan’s

Coach Hill, I can not think of anyone more deserving of this honor than you. You are not just a coach to many.

You are a mentor, a father figure, and a leader. You have made an impact in thousands of wrestlers lives including my own. I remember being terrified of going to practice as a freshman. It was hard work and at times, I didn’t want to do it. But you pushed me to new limits. If it weren’t for the lesson you taught during practice, I have no idea where I’d be right now. I’d probably be trying my best to be mediocre and I’d probably have no idea how to even set a higher goal for myself. Thanks to you, I am not that person. You taught me to take all of my challenges head on and not be scared of any adversity. When times get tough, I do not just give up like most do. I keep pushing through adversity and it’s all thanks to what I learned from you as a coach. You are the role model of what every coach should strive to be like in the wrestling community. I am beyond grateful to have you as a coach. Congratulations Coach. You definitely deserve it.

Mark Allan

Coach Hill,

Congratulations on receiving the Lifetime Service Award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame! A well-deserved award for a coach who has helped so many lives including my own. From all those countless road trips to tournaments, time spent with teammates, and the memories that were created through Gunston Wrestling Club, I can truly say thank you Coach Hill for spending time helping grow wrestlers over the years. You have truly sacrificed a lot for the wrestling community and for others. You are a father figure to many and a true coaching inspiration. I want to thank you for giving me a lasting impact that I can carry with me throughout my life as an athlete and a growing individual. I know I may not have been the brightest, or most obedient student-athlete, you never questioned my own decisions and always led me to the path that I should take, even though sometimes I would take the path less traveled. Throughout my youth career at Gunston you were in my corner forging me into a wrestler I knew deep down I could be, an athlete I can be proud of till this day as I continue to further my career and follow my dreams.

A heart felt thank you coach, George Billy

Roy Hill is not only a coach but he is a mentor, friend, and becomes a part of anyone’s family who has the pleasure of getting to know him. He has been someone who not only places student before athlete but also is an excellent role model helping shape his student athletes into well rounded citizens. We’ve known him for over 8 years when our son, Nathan, attended Hayfield and was on the wrestling team. He would always take students to various events throughout the United States using his own money and vehicle. He would take students to movies and various restaurants giving them the attention that only a special, kind hearted, caring person can. Many of his student athletes have looked at Coach Hill as more of a father figure than just a coach. Any time our son needed someone to talk to, to discuss things, good or bad, Coach Hill was always there for him. Roy would keep things confidential and guide students with what to do. He always thinks of others before himself. We feel very blessed and fortunate to have Coach Roy Hill to be a part our family. With Coach Hill being such a great humanitarian, leader, and role model, we are very proud to see him being inducted into the Virginia Wrestling Hall of Fame!

With our love and admiration, The Coburn Family

Coach Hill is one of those people who change your life before you can even realize. He is by far one of the most selfless people I have ever met and for that I strive to become half the man that he is. I am eternally grateful for all that he has done for me and there is no way that I can repay him. He is the reason for my success. Everything I do is to make him proud. I am who I am today because of the type of person Coach Hill is.

He is the embodiment of compassion and love. It’s not everyday that the pupil tells his mentor that he is proud of him, but I want Coach Hill to know exactly that. This accomplishment was foreseen through all the hard work and time that Coach Hill has put in to young wrestlers, but as the induction is only a few days away the feeling becomes more and more unreal. I cant think of any other man that deserves this more than Coach Hill and again words can even begin to explain how happy and proud I am to be able to call you my coach.

With love, Sahid Kargbo

Congratulations Coach Roy Hill for a great accomplishment! As an admiring coach, this tremendous feat is well deserved! You define the definition of “team player� in many ways! Whether it is tackling what is best for the sport of wrestling or traveling a wrestler from another school around the country, you have always led by example. Your Hard Work, Dedication, and Commitment are being rewarded. Again, Congratulations on your honor in to the Hall of Fame!

-Annandale Wrestling

I just wanted to say to you , no one, more than you, deserves recognition for what you do for kids . This goes for wrestling and in the classroom. I have been honored to have witnessed the body of your service to youth. Our country would be a better place if we had more Roy Hill’s. You accept all as they come , warts included, and help them grow that point forward.

Proud to call you friend, Chap Fay

Coach Hill, I want to thank you for being one of the Great’s as a coach. You deserve this lifetime achievement award. I want you to know you were part of the reason I won a Fargo National Title. Your past wrestlers and I are a direct reflection of the type of coach you are. Thank you for your service towards Southern Maryland Wrestling Club in the 90’s.

Ryan Herwig Blue Claw Wrestling Club, Owner

15 April 2015 Dear Coach Roy Hill, Congratulations on your induction into the Wrestling Hall of Fame. This recognition reflects the hard work, perseverance, patience, wrestling skill and techniques that you personally exhibited and were manifested in the achievements of your individual wrestlers and teams. As a parent, I want to thank you for the positive influence you’ve been to the high school boys you coached, mentored and supported in your years as a teacher and wrestling coach. I saw the results of what happens to young lives when you took these kids and helped them develop into young men through the sport of wrestling. You instilled attention to academics, teamwork, discipline, persistence, a strong work ethic and knowing oneself — the stuff of what much of life is about.

Since I first met you in 1997, when my son, Geoff, was a student at Hayfield High School and member of your wrestling team, I saw changes in him. With Geoff coming from a variety of small Department of Defense schools overseas and in the States, my wife, Mary Beth, and I were concerned that his entering a large, multicultural urban high school might be a difficult transition.

After four years of closely observing your work with the Hayfield wrestling team in which Geoff was a member, I became an advocate for supporting your work with wrestling teams. You were quite imposing — less about size and more about your presence and what you could extract from these then kids. You exerted outsized positive influence on your charges. I personally know students who might have made poor decisions growing up but were guided to choose better because you cared for and mentored them. You helped many students confront personal and academic challenges in their lives — never giving up on a troubled boy. You were one of the key adults in my son’s academic, athletic and leadership achievements — all traits underpinning his successful university, military service and, now, professional civilian career.

When I think of an adult who has, over many years, unselfishly done so much for growing solid young men to achieve academic, athletic and personal success beyond what they thought they could do, you are the singular leader who comes to my mind. You set the example of what we all should be to help today’s students become responsible and contributing members of our nation and its communities. Your legacy lives on in the lives you helped shape.

Again, congratulations and my sincere thanks for your work.

Warmest regards, Don Meno Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret)

Coach Hill, Thank you for pushing me to work harder than I ever had before, and then for pushing me even further. Thank you for driving all of us hooligans all over the country. Thank you for taking us fishing. Thank you for taking us to camps and tournaments. Thank you for the camaraderie, the jokes, the laughter. Thank you for creating memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you for the physical and mental toughness that you instilled in us. Thank you for teaching me leadership and what it means to be selfless. Thank you for telling me that you were proud of me. Thank you for all of these things and so much more.

Coach, the example you set in caring so wholeheartedly for each one of us made me a better man, a better Marine, a better husband, and I hope it will make me a good father beginning Summer 2015. I have never met someone who truly cared so much about so many. You have been, and continue to be, a blessing in so many lives. You are changing the World, one kid at a time, and I'm thankful to have been a part of it. Congratulations on this latest recognition of a lifetime of achievement.

Geoff Meno

Coach Hill, First off, I want to say congratulations on being inducted into the Hall of Fame. I also wanted to say thank you for everything you’ve done for me during my time at Hayfield and even after. I know I would definitely not be where I am today if I had never stepped into the wrestling room during my freshman year.

You helped to shape me into the man and officer that I am today, and that is something that I will be eternally grateful for. I also want to thank you for being such an awesome coach to me and the rest of the team. You instilled in us a sense of brotherhood that is still going strong several years after graduation. It gives me great pride to say that I am a part of the Hayfield wrestling family and we all have you to thank for that. I hope you have an awesome time at the ceremony; I’m sad that I won’t be able to go but I will be sure to stop by and visit you the next time the Marine Corps lets me go home.

Sincerely, Jan Paul

Coach Hill, Congratulations on this well deserved award. I am proud to have been coached in wrestling and in life by you. Your patience, passion for the sport of wrestling and dedication to your athletes is uncanny and transcends the sport. Thank you so much for being a part of mine and my brothers development as men and influencing our lives so greatly.

Ivan Lagares

13 April, 2014 Coach Hill: Congratulations on your induction to the Virginia Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame! All your years of hard work and attention to detail has definitely paid off for you. What an outstanding honor for an outstanding person! Well done!

I want to thank you for all that you have done for the sport of wrestling as Virginia’s State Chairman and the coach of the Gunston Wrestling Club. The tournaments, clinics, travel all over the country shows how much you care about growing the sport of wrestling in Virginia. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity in 2001 to help Virginia Wrestling Association and the wrestlers of our great Commonwealth in Greco Roman. I appreciate the chance to help the state learn and appreciate Greco Roman wrestling.

More importantly, you are the definition of what a coach should be on and off the mat. I remember sitting with you in Fargo a few years back, thanking you for helping me realize what a coach’s job is. Coaching is not completely about what we do in the practice room and during matches; anyone who knows wrestling can do both of these. It is what you do with your wrestlers off the mat that defines you as a coach. The amount of time you put in with all of your athletes to help them become outstanding students, citizens, and wrestlers separates you from just about every coach in Virginia. The life lessons you teach your athletes prepares them for a life off the mat is what really matters. Championship titles are nice to win, Coach of the Year awards make nice additions to an already crowded wall of honors, but what you do with your wrestlers to develop them into men clearly defines you as a coach amongst coaches. I like to think I use many of your life lessons with my students and athletes to help them prepare for life outside of wrestling.

Your wrestlers view you as a father figure; in some cases you are the only positive role model in their lives.

You unselfishly give your time without asking anything is response. You take boys without direction and turn them in men of substance and character. The relationship you have with your wrestlers- past and present is one of genuine care, love, and respect. It does not go unnoticed Coach Hill. I applaud you for what you do for Hayfield Secondary School. They are fortunate to have you as a teacher, coach, and mentor.

Thank you for being a mentor, a colleague, and a friend over the years. I truly appreciate the many lessons you have taught me over the years and to instill in me the qualities that make an outstanding coach. Congratulations again on your selection to the Virginia Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame! It is a welldeserved honor for a man who has positively affected the lives of so many young men over the years.

Robinson A. Prebish Head Greco Roman Coach Virginia Wrestling Association

Coach Hill, Congratulations on your induction to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Your dedication to the sport and youth has positively impacted so many lives, including my own. You have been a great mentor, preparing wrestlers for success both on and off the mat. I am truly honored to have wrestled for you.

Sincerely, Hamed Heider

Coach, You are an inspiration and an example to both young and old, and your selfless dedication to instilling integrity, dedication and accountability in your students and athletes is beyond admirable. I cannot think of anyone more deserving to be recognized for their lifelong commitment to both the betterment of society and the great sport of wrestling.

Congratulations and thank you!

Demetrios Bursenos

Coach Hill is not only my wrestling coach but also a fatherly figure in my life. I would not be where I am today wrestling in a D1 program without his guidance. I have learned how to not only love the sport of wrestling but the challenges in life as well by finding positive ways of getting through them. It's never a dull moment around coach Hill, his jokes and stories that pertain not only to wrestling but life have had me at a good laugh countless of times. Congratulations Coach Hill, this achievement is well earned and deserved as well. I love you -Konbeh Koroma

No one is more deserving of receiving the Lifetime Service Award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame than Coach Roy Hill. I have had the amazing pleasure of knowing Roy for over 20 years and have seen firsthand the amazing things he has done to impact the lives of the young men and women who were his students and his student-athletes.

There have been many times that Coach Hill took in the worse of the worse, the severe at-risk youth with the the most challenging home situations and he showed them a better way. He taught them at a young age to learn from their mistakes, to be responsible for their actions and to take constructive/positive criticism to become not only a better wrestler but a better human being. That is why you will always see his student-athletes achieve goals no one thought they could achieve both on and off the mat. Many of them take these lessons and apply them to life after wrestling by graduating from college or by serving in the armed forces. Many come back to become teachers and to coach, giving back to this great sport that we love.

He has mentored not only Hayfield wrestlers but also any other wrestler that has come into his room. The Gunston Wrestling Club is the mecca of Northern Virginia wrestling and all are welcome. On any giving day you can see high school, middle school, elementary school and college wrestlers from all over the state and other states training. They come from all over to learn from Coach Hill and to train with the area's best. He has packed many of these wrestlers in his van and traveled the across the country to compete against the best at the biggest and toughest tournaments of the spring and summer. Some of my best spring/summer wrestling memories involved traveling to tournaments in Roy's old maroon van listening to Daft Punk.

So with that, thank you Coach Hill for not only helping me, but for helping countless youth grow up to become amazing, hardworking people that they are today.

I am very, very, very happy to see you recognized for your years of hard work and sacrifice.

Thank you Omar McNeil #HillTrained

What an honor, to have Roy Hill coach and mentor my sons, Steven and Ronnie Ours.

The years he put into building a foundation in which they have built their life upon has proven to be prosperous.

Steven became a VA Wrestling State Champion and Ronnie earned numerous awards.

Roy instilled within each a spirit of integrity. Teaching them that through honest hard work they can achieve any goal they set. This has molded them into successful citizens.

Both Steven and Ronnie graduated from The Apprentice School while earning a living and each purchased their own home, under the age of 23.

I owe all this success to Roy's mentorship..."Mentoring, particularly in its traditional sense, enables an individual to follow in the path of an older and wiser colleague who can pass on knowledge, experience and open doors to otherwise out-of-reach opportunities" Thank you Roy for making my life more at peace. I appreciate the leadership and life skills you taught my boys.

May God richly bless you all the days of your life.

Alma

Leader A leader is a person that takes a group of young men and turns them into “Real” men. He is always the first to jump in the captain’s seat and drive head on right into adversity.

When I first met Coach Roy Hill, to be honest, I was slightly intimidated. With his towering stature and grimacing stare, he firmly shook my hand and grinned with the biggest smile, that smile that we all know so well. From that day forward I was no longer intimidated, but rather relieved to have met the best leader in the business.

I have yet to meet a person more deserving of this recognition than Coach Hill. Nothing has stopped him from getting the best for his athletes. I can remember the team jumping in vans/cars/busses to go to meet and often times beat the best competition. I never understood it at the time, but now words cannot explain how grateful I am. He helped me to become the “Man” I am today. He taught me to face adversity and never give up, always be prepared for the best and always look up. I still use his lessons to live my life.

Coach Hill wasn’t always business, business, business. He would teach life skills too. I can’t count the many times that we would jump in the boat and hit the water to get some lines wet. He was always the first one to catch a monster Catfish. What I didn’t realize on those fishing trips was that Coach Hill was teaching us to build friendships and relationships. Team comradery was one of the most important characteristics he wanted us to learn. I see how this works at my job everyday.

Coach Hill being inducted into the Hall of Fame is no surprise to anyone that knew him. He has always been extremely caring and considerate of everyone. The funniest thing is that he has never met a stranger. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and put blood, sweat and tears into any task or event. I guess you can say he was always there, always the first one in and the last to leave. He was at every event and every fundraiser. There was never any excuse great enough to keep him from always wanting the best for his boys.

He treated everyone with the utmost respect even if they made the wrong call that would decide the winner of the match. He once told, “Never put yourself in the position to fail, always look for success.”

Coach Hill is the greatest Leader that I know. He has always been the first one to jump in the Captain’s Chair and face adversity head on. He took me in as a young man and turned me in the “Real” Man that I am today. And I’m not alone!

Best wishes, Steven Ours

Coach Hill Congratulations on being elected into the Virginia Wrestling Hall of Fame, it is well deserved.

You are great coach and mentor and not only have you produced countless great wrestlers, but countless great men as well. It was a privilege to be able to be coached by you. You are one of the people that have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am truthfully thankful and honored to have been coached by you.

Thanks and Congrats, Stephen Sudik

Roy Hill might be the most deserving man of this award. Throughout the years he has not only coached the wrestling community but he has also formed strong bonds with each one of the wrestlers he has ever met.

For as great as a coach that he is, he is an even better man often going above and beyond to make sure someone who wanted the opportunity to succeed and live well did. He is a man that will never be in hard times because he will forever have each one of the kids that he has coached behind him. The measure of a great coach may be accomplishments but the measure of a great man is how he has touched the lives of everyone has met and for Coach Hill this couldn’t be truer.

No one is more deserving of this award, Coach Hill is more than a coach or mentor, he is family, and that truly makes him great.

I can’t thank him enough for everything he has ever done for me and I will always great grateful for one of those big bear hugs. Coach Hill is truly a man that if he ever needed anything I would do it in a heartbeat.

Thank you Coach Hill for being a great coach, a great mentor, and a great friend and member of my family.

Chris McIntosh – Hayfield Secondary Class of 2006

Coach Hill, Congratulations on being inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame-Virginia Chapter and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for your many contributions to this great sport.

I would personally like to thank you for your unprecedented dedication and commitment to the sport of wrestling.

You have made a tremendous positive impact to Virginia wrestling as well as the entire wrestling community through your tireless efforts. You have personally molded boys into young men and have provided many opportunities for them, both in sport and in life. Your title is “coach� but it is known that you are also an adult role model and mentor to many athletes, including those that do not attend Hayfield High School. The positive impact that you have made to so many student athletes over the years is powerful and a tribute to your dedication, professionalism and abilities.

Your role has required many sacrifices on your part and I certainly appreciate everything you have done. Your positive attitude is contagious and the sport of wrestling is better because of your efforts. The Lifetime Achievement Award and enshrinement are a most deserving honor that recognizes your dedication and commitment to wrestling.

Sincerely,

Ed Rawlins

April 8, 2015 Congratulations Coach Hill, You mean a lot to me and I'm so happy for you. I doubt that without you in my life I would be the man I am today. I’d probably be that freshman I was running around getting in trouble. Thank you because without you I don't believe I would've found my passion for science and learning. I will always remember you and will miss you greatly in Colorado Springs. I will work hard to make you proud and become the officer you taught me I can be. You're like a father to me one that I can tell anything. I trust you immensely and I know you know how special that makes you. You are the greatest mentor to ever influence me and probably always will be. Thanks for everything you've done for me, the many before me, and the many that will follow me.

One of your sons, Devin Saunders

Upon hearing about your upcoming honor this is what I thought...

As you know I spent most if not all of my entire high school career as a total Jack*** both academically and athletically. But you never gave up on me, and you never let me quit. As a young man making bad choices you disciplined me when I was wrong and always gave me a chance to make it right, you did not give up on me. As a kid who never had a father you have no idea how much that meant to me and how bad I needed it. I doubt you remember this but shortly after I had wrestled my last match as a senior and I was no longer your problem you took a bunch of us to a tournament way up somewhere in Maryland. I was still a kid but because of my just turning 18 I had to wrestle with the grown men. I won a couple of matches and had to wrestle a GROWN man who had been killin everyone. Ill never forget what you said to me before I went out. "You're not a kid anymore! You're a man now and you have to compete like one". I didnt beat him because he would have always been too much for me. But I went out there and gave him hell and when I came off the mat you grabbed me and said " You competed like a man today". Ill never forget that moment and I will never forget you coach. Congratulations and thank you Coach. You deserve it..

-Rashad Furr