The 39-year-old Billman, a three-time NCAA All-American at Penn State and at Lock Haven University, did not have his contract renewed after two years at the helm of his high school alma mater. His assistant coaches -- Jeremy Hartrum, Brandon Mihalko, and Phil Racciato -- were also let go.
Billman confirmed his departure via text message Wednesday afternoon to local media.
As head coach, Billman compiled an overall record of 24-13 overall, 13-5 in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference. Easton crowned District 11 Class 3A champions this year in Jonathan Miers (132 pounds) and Jonathan Pineda (285), but went without a state medalist for the second straight season for the first time since 1967.
Billman is one of the Red Rovers' most decorated wrestlers. The 1997 Easton graduate was a two-time PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) state champ (1996, 1997), a three-time District 11 champion and two-time Northeast Regional titlist. Billman compiled a career record of 141-17 wrestling for legendary coach Steve Powell.
Billman continued his academic and athletic career in Pennsylvania-based universities. For two years he attended Penn State, where he earned NCAA All-American honors by placing fifth at 142 pounds at the 1998 NCAAs. Billman then transferred to Lock Haven, where was a two-time All-American at 149 pounds, placing fifth in both 2001 and 2002. His combined collegiate career mark at both schools was 117-13.
Immediately after college, Billman served as an assistant coach at Cornell University before coaching at the high school level at Wilson and Easton before becoming head coach at his prep alma mater upon the retirement of coach Powell.
UPDATE 3/16/18: The Allentown (Pa.) Morning Call reported that a number of Easton Area High students placed their school jerseys at the entrance of school athletic director Jim Pokrivsak's office door Friday afternoon... and that wrestlers and parents are planning to stage a protest at the Easton Board of Education meeting Monday evening.
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