Bill Vankirk played under legendary head coach Dave Porter at Jac-Cen-Del from 1973-1977 and was instrumental his senior year in leading the Eagles to the 1977 sectional championship before being eliminated by Union County in the Connersville regional.  Scoring 712 career points including a game-high 29, Vankirk was known for his overall play and hustle.  He was a four-year letter winner, being selected Team MVP in 1975 alongside winning the Team Rebounding Award.  In 1977, he won the Free Throw Award and was Team Captain all the way through the program's run to the regional tournament.  

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Vankirk's contributions to JCD athletics have continued even past graduation.  He has not only served as a coach for the youth basketball and baseball programs, but he has also been an avid supporter of the Eagles, being in attendance for nearly all athletic events.  Currently, Vankirk serves as Vice-President of the Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame and has spent many years promoting the overall cause of the Hall while being instrumental in recognizing the great student-athletes of our past.  

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Bill was recently recognized for 47 years of service to the Napoleon Fire Department and he continues to spend his days assisting many in our area inside the insurance business.  Bill and his wife Jane Ann reside in Napoleon and are the parents of Annette, Jason and Bridgette.  They are also the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren.