Hall of Fame
Adams, a 1987 graduate of Martinsburg High School, was a four-year standout running back for the Rams (1988 and 1991-93). After his freshman year Adams enlisted in the U.S. Army for two years. In the fall of 1991 Adams returned to Shepherd, where his skillful running style propelled the Rams to a championship season. Bill completed his football career as the all-time leading rusher in WVIAC and Shepherd history with 4,376 yards. Adams helped lead the Rams to WVIAC titles and NAIA Playoff appearances in 1991 and 1992. He was the first player in Conference history to gain 1,000 yards or more in three different seasons. Adams was a two-time All-America honoree and the leading rusher against Carson-Newman in Shepherd's first ever national playoff victory. Adams and his equally heralded defensive teammate, Brooks Bennett, formed one of the brightest periods in Shepherd football history according to their coach, Monte Cater. Former SID at Shepherd, Mike Straley, said "Adams' statistics are still impressive, but just as important was his off-the-field performance and how he handled himself." After 10 years, the majority of Bill Adam's records currently rank second on the all-time Shepherd list.
