Linfield University Athletics

Athlete 1965 - 1969

Joe Robillard, class of 1969, is selected to the Linfield Athletics Hall of Fame for his contributions in the sport of football.

Robillard was one of the great defensive backs in Wildcat history.

Thirty-seven years after his final game, Robillard still ranks second in Linfield career pass interceptions with 20, second in career interception return yardage with 308, second in single-season pass interceptions with nine in 1966, and fifth in single-season interception return yardage with 124 in 1966.

His nine interceptions in 1966 also was a Northwest Conference record.

"He was a pro-type of safety, very hard hitting," said Ad Rutschman, who coached Robillard in 1968. Some students nicknamed him "Joltin' Joe" for the impact of his tackles.

During his senior year, Robillard also returned punts and took two back for touchdowns of 77 and 70 yards, still second and third longest in the Linfield record book.

Northwest Conference coaches recognized Robillard all four years. He won honorable mention his freshman year and first-team all conference in 1966, 1967 and 1968.

He also was selected on the Associated Press Little All-Northwest teams in 1966, '67 and '68.

Robillard started as a freshman in the 1965 NAIA championship game and his teammates selected him as Linfield's Outstanding Rookie that season.

He also lettered four years in track and field.

Robillard was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1969 and had a short career in the NFL.

Robillard, who came to Linfield from Hood River, Ore., resides near Oklahoma City with his wife of 33 years, Susan. Daughter Nichole, 28, and son, Matt, 26, both also were outstanding college athletes.

He is president and general manager of Autoquip Corporation, a manufacturer of material-handling equipment like freight elevators.