Stan Hillier has been elected to the Northeastern Hall of Fame for his achievements in the sport of football.
Hillier, Class of '78, was one of the greatest defensive linemen ever to play for the Huskies. A former star at Holbrook High School and Tilton Academy, he became an impact player as a freshman and went on to win four varsity football letters from 1973-76.
After sensational seasons as a freshman and sophomore, his junior year was marred by an ankle injury on the opening day of practice that haunted him for the entire year. Despite the injury, he was voted All-New England.
In March of 1976, Hillier underwent surgery to repair the ankle and by preseason camp in August he was back at 100 percent. By then, the 215-pounder that had started as a freshman had become a 6'3, 238-pound standout with surprising agility.
During that period of time, the Northeastern football program was in the process of upgrading from Division II to a new level (eventually known as Division IAA) and was trailing a number of its opponents in resources. The situation made Hillier's senior season all the more remarkable as the Huskies' final record was 2-7. In that nine-game season he earned ECAC Player of the Week certificates eight times.
Hillier's most remarkable afternoon of his senior campaign came against AIC in a game the Huskies would win 53-31. However, at halftime the score was 41-0. In those first 30 minutes of football he was credited with nine unassisted tackles, 10 assisted, four blocked passes and one quarterback sack. For that incredible performance, Hillier won the weekly Gold Helmet Award from the New England Football Writers. It is an honor that remains a rarity for defensive players.
When the season ended, the statistical achievements proved remarkable. Over 125 total tackles, 15 quarterback sacks, 10 blocked passes, nine caused fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one blocked punt. The honors started to pour in. He was voted All-New England for the second straight year and then received ECAC All-East Division II honors. At the team banquet, Hillier was selected the Most Valuable Player. Then came the crowning honor when he was voted first team Division II All America. Hillier became only the seventh Northeastern football player to receive that distinction.
The next spring Hillier signed as a free agent with the New England Patriots, but after a month in training camp he opted to go into business.
