Billing, Fred C.

United States Naval Academy
1962

Fred C. Billing, of the United States Naval Academy class of 1925, became the first Navy player to be elected to the Lacrosse Hall of Fame.

Billing began his lacrosse career at Erasmus Hall in Brooklyn, N.Y., from 1914-18. After completing high school, Billing attended Princeton University from 1919-21 and the U.S. Naval Academy from 1921-25.

Billing was selected a First-Team All-American for the position of close attack from 1923-25. During those years, Navy's opponents knew that he was the man who had to be stopped, but they were always unable to do so. Billing was one of the greatest dodgers of all time and a fine stick-handler in the days when stick-work did not have the universal perfection it has today. In addition to playing lacrosse, Billing played football, hockey and tennis. In his graduation year at the Academy, he received a letter of Commendation and was awarded the coveted Thompson Cup for his athletic ability.

Billing participated as a lacrosse player for 21 years, starring for the Crescent Athletic Club and Montclair Athletic Club lacrosse teams after his Academy years. He coached for two years and officiated for five. Billing was active in promoting lacrosse among prep schools in New Jersey.

Billing was a Commander in the Naval Reserve from 1941-46 and received area and combat ribbons. Toward the close of World War II, he was recalled to the Naval Academy as the Officer Representative for Lacrosse.

Back to National Lacrosse Hall of Fame Member List