Paul Packer was a graduate of Bald Eagle Area in 1973, and in 1972, he was the last 95-pound State Champion in PIAA. At BEA, his record was 42-13, but he was undefeated at 23-0 in 1972. After high school, Paul attended Lycoming University for part of a year, and had a career record of 6-0 before leaving Lycoming. Paul wrestled for Hall of Fame coach Joe Humphreys in Elementary and while in Junior High. At the Varsity level, he was coached by Hall of Famer, Dick Rhoades. He was Rhoades' first state champ. Paul was also a 2X Champion of the prestigious Manheim Lions Holiday Tournament. Paul was one of seven children whose family faced many hardships. Fortunately, they were held together by a very strong, very capable mother. Joe Humphreys supplied a great deal of leadership to the Packer brothers too, keeping them moving in the right direction in their lives. It was through the sport of wrestling that Paul and four of his older brothers excelled, giving them purpose and direction. Though all brothers achieved success in the sport, Paul was the only state champion. After his competitive wrestling career was over, Paul became a referee. He went on to become an outstanding and very highly respected wrestling official. He was a PIAA Official for 37 years, and refereed in over a dozen years in District & Regional Championships, and in 5 PIAA State Championships. He progressed to the NCAA level where he a was an EWLOA Official for 30 years. Paul worked EWL dual meets and tournaments and PSAC Championships in several years. He is a Past President and rules interpreter of the Charles Goldthorp Chapter of District 6 Wrestling Officials. Paul also was a volunteer coach for the Bald Eagle Wrestling Club for several years while his sons were involved at the elementary level. Paul was inducted into the District Six Hall of Fame in 2008. Paul is retired and still resides in Milesburg, PA. He is active in the community, as the Sons of American Legion Commander at Milesburg American Legion Post, and as a Member of Milesburg Borough Council.