Bill joined the Hastings Sertoma Club in 1986 and began contributing to the success the Eight Man All-Star Game right away. In his early years, he dedicated his time to setting up and working concessions on game day and for the next 20-plus years, he also donated his time to game-day program sales. During game week, Bill founded annual traditions including the Hastings Skylarks airplane show and the watermelon feed enjoyed by both players and coaches alike. He was a key volunteer in making each All-Star week a success and his efforts were truly appreciated. The NEMFCA thanks Bill Ries for his 30-plus years of service and is honored to welcome him into the Eight Man Football Hall of Fame Class of 2017.