By RYAN WALKER
Norwell’s senior offensive lineman will be taking his talents to Trine University next fall.
Ayden Billiard signed his national letter of intent with the Thunder Thursday morning at the high school — among one of the largest supporting casts there’s been during a signing.
“It’s great having this many people here,” Billiard said. “Most of them football players — I love them all. It was great having my family and coaches here supporting me.”
On his visit, he met with some of the football players and coaches, and mentioned how nice the campus was — one of the best he’s seen. It’s no question that he values team comradery with several teammates posing behind him to take a photo after he put pen to paper.
“I met with a few of the guys,” Billiard said. “They all seemed pretty nice and they love football and all the coaches were great, too.”
Billiard spent his time as an offensive guard for the Knights, receiving second-team all Northeast 8 in his final campaign. He was one of four Knights to be on the all-conference award list.
The Thunder have had winning seasons in all nine years with head coach Troy Abbs. In 2023, they had a 6-4 record. Abbs, who is now 55-23 at Trine, got the attention of Long in his relatability and enthusiasm.
Billiard is also the second offensive lineman in Wells County to sign with Trine this month. Southern Wells lineman Peyton Long inked with the Thunder last week
ryan@news-banner.com
