Bill Nelson was a standout soccer player at Syracuse University for the 1951-1953 seasons, and was an All American in Soccer in 1953. Nelson played a couple seasons of basketball at Syracuse. He also lettered in baseball in 1953. Though small, Nelson was extremely quick, and proved a capable guard on the court. He was an occasional starter, primarily because of his defensive prowess.

He would be tasked with guarding #17 ranked Holy Cross' Earle Markey. Nelson ball-hawked Markey all game, disrupting the All-American's play, and helping the Orangemen pull off the big upset.

After graduation he taught physical education and coached soccer at various schools for fifteen years. From 1969 to 1991 he was the first Director of Physical Education at Harrisburg Community College. Nelson was very active in youth soccer, establishing the Hampden Township Youth Soccer program. In 1972 he established the Pennsylvania Hardcourt Tennis Championship.

He was a referee for soccer for 28 years, and has refereed 66 NCAA Championship games. He was named a Syracuse Letterwinner of Distinction in 2003.

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