Hall of Fame
The manner in which he performed with brilliance in hockey and track and field, against the best athletes of his time, gained Billy Cotter election to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame.
During the 1920’s and the 1930’s, he excelled at all levels of hockey and made his mark in track and field. A standout in every sport available during his school days at St. Bon’s, Billy Cotter possessed such hockey talent that he was picked for the St. Bon’s senior team while still attending high school.
He was so good that, while still a student, he was selected to a St. John’s all-star team for a series against the Halifax Crescents. His hockey career included a large number of all-star games against teams from other areas of the province and the Maritimes.
He was a leader for St. Bon’s teams that won the St. John’s senior hockey championship and the Boyle Trophy in 1928, 1930, 1931, 1932 and 1933.
In track, Billy Cotter displayed a versatility that was outstanding. He held the pole vault record for more than 40 years and his exceptional skills also earned him provincial records for the high jump, hurdles, broad jump and triple jump.
An extremely intelligent athlete, he was always a team leader and had a reputation for helping his teammates.
It was for his tremendous career in hockey and track and field that Billy Cotter was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame October 13, 1974.
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