V 1 N. 15 Bill Schnier, Former U. of Cincinnati Coach Seriously Injured

 

 
Bill Schnier with All American X Country Man Eric Finan  2010

It is with a very heavy heart that I have to report that my friend, Bill Schnier,  longtime University of Cincinnati Bearcat Head Track and Cross Country coach was seriously injured on Tuesday, July 14.  

Bill and all of his family take an annual vacation together, and this year it was at an island off Charleston, South Carolina.   That day Bill, his son Keller and 6 grandchildren went to a local park to play basketball.  Bill has played in leagues for many years and recently turned 80.  Apparently he went for a rebound and coming down his knee buckled, he took a tumble and hit his head on the support pole under the basket.  The result was two displaced vertebrae, C-3 and C-4 in his neck.  The result is that Bill is now quadraplegic.  He has no use of his arms and legs.  Along with this injury and a bloody head wound, his young grandchildren had to witness the event.  I cannot even imagine how traumatized this has left the children.   Bill's wife Kathy called me yesterday to report this terrible situation.  Bill's two daughters, Ellen and Lorain and their husbands were also in the area.  What they really need now are your prayers and good thoughts.  I have been able to contact a number of Bill's friends and colleagues, but in case I've missed some, I'm putting this out on the blog.  All concerned are wishing the best for this family under such trying circumstances.

George Brose

George,
Thanks for posting about Bill’s injury on the blog. I think that’s the best way to get the information out there to the most people. 
Doug and I always talk about walking around the OSU track between divisions in the state hs meet (with Bill). Count on it taking a good hour, because coaches, former athletes, administrators, officials, vendors all know Bill and want to have a word with him. As you know, probably the most authentic, consistent, positive person alive. And I am sure he will continue to be, regardless of his dehabilitating circumstances.
Bruce Kritzler

Comments

  1. Ohio runnerJuly 20, 2025 at 4:23 PM

    I was shocked to learn of this tragic accident only today. I met Bill at your son’s home from your visit in the area last year. Although it was just a brief introduction to ourselves, we had a chance to get acquainted as we both shared a passion for running. He struck me as someone I whom I could easily befriend. My heart goes out to his family and friends that will affect them as they must make a major life adjustment for themselves and for Bill.

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