Central Catholic High School to induct Mr. William “Bill” Hillgrove, ’58 into the Central Catholic Hall of Fame

Central Catholic High School is pleased to announce its 2019-20 Hall of Fame inductee, Mr. William “Bill” Hillgrove, ’58.

The Central Catholic Hall of Fame was established to honor and recognized alumni who exemplify the traditions of our school through their personal and professional lives.

“Mr. Hillgrove is a legend in the Pittsburgh sports broadcasting world, and we are so proud that Central Catholic played a part in helping Bill find his voice at such a formative time in his life,” said Brother Tony Baginski, FSC, Principal. “The city of Pittsburgh has been blessed with his giving spirit and incredible energy, and it is our honor to induct him into the Central Catholic Hall of Fame.”

Hillgrove’s storied career in broadcasting can be traced back to his days as a student at Central Catholic. After the completion of WQED’s newly constructed studio adjacent to Central Catholic in 1952, the studio was looking for part-time volunteers. Bill’s father, an electrician, thought it would be a great opportunity for his son to learn more about the business. With the encouragement of his father, and the principal at the time, Brother Frederick John, FSC, Bill embarked on an unexpectedly different career path. In addition to his development at WQED, Bill also attended the Pittsburgh Diocesan Radio & TV School, led by Sister Rosalie of the Charity order. The school was located in Cathedral Mansions, just around the corner from Central Catholic. He credits the early years at WQED and the Pittsburgh Diocesan Radio & TV School for exposing him to the industry and sparking his passion that set the foundation to his remarkable career.

Since 1994, Bill has been the “Voice of the Steelers,” serving as their play-by-play broadcaster. In 1970, Bill became the regular color commentator for Pitt football play-by-play man Ed Conway. In 1974, he assumed the play-by-play announcer duties, and is currently in his 46th year broadcasting Pitt football. Bill has an even longer history with Pitt basketball, and is entering his 51st season.

Prior to these roles, he held positions at WTAE-TV, WKJF (now KDKA-FM 93.7 The Fan) and WQED. Bill honed his broadcasting skills as a student sports broadcaster for Duquesne basketball games as an undergrad, graduating in 1962 with a degree in journalism.

“It’s extremely humbling to be a part of such a small club [Central Catholic’s Hall of Fame],” said Hillgrove. “It makes me proud of where I came from, my neighborhood of Garfield, and my parish and grade school of St. Lawrence O’Toole. It’s amazing to be honored by Central Catholic in this way.”

Outside of broadcasting, Bill enjoys golf, jazz and big band. He dedicates his free time to serving on the Board of Directors for the Theater Factory in Trafford, the Board of Trustees at Conneaut Lake Park and the Board of Directors at The Pittsburgh Opera. In addition to his involvement on multiple boards, Bill serves as the President of the National Museum of Broadcasting, which aims to open in Pittsburgh, the birthplace of the broadcasting industry. He and his wife, Rosette, a vocal teacher, live in Murrysville, and have two grown children and two grandchildren.

When asked what advice he would share with current Central Catholic students, Bill offered the following:

“As a high school student, you have no idea what the future will hold. Stay versatile and take advantage of the opportunities that are before you.”

Bill Hillgrove will be honored with the Hall of Fame Award at this year’s Viking Victory Auction at the Wyndham Grand Hotel on April 25, 2020. Stay tuned to www.centralcatholichs.com/vikingvictoryauction for sponsorship and ticket information.