Local Legend: Brandon Hill
Some people build community by introducing friends to climbing. Others build it by showing up year after year, lending a hand wherever it’s needed, and helping every event feel a little more welcoming.
If you’ve attended an SCC competition or community event over the past few years, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Brandon Hill. Whether he’s volunteering behind the scenes at Members Only Boulder Brawl, helping make The Sickness Competition a success, or pitching in at Siege the Citadel, Brandon has become an integral part of the SCC community.
Based in Huntsville, Alabama, Brandon has found lasting friendships and unforgettable experiences while volunteering alongside the SCC, all in an effort to give back to the climbing community.
Like many climbers, Brandon’s story started with a little encouragement from a friend. What began as the occasional trip to a climbing gym quickly turned into weekends spent outdoors, with his first day climbing at Horse Pens 40, opening the door to a lifelong passion.
Now, climbing is much more than a hobby.
“It’s a huge part of my socialization and physical fitness,” Brandon says. “I get to see and chat with my friends at the gym and outdoors while getting in some quality exercise. Plus, the community is great, being very welcoming and supportive to each other!”
That sense of community is what keeps him coming back—not just to the crag, but to SCC events throughout the year.
When it comes to favorite places to climb, Brandon has a hard time choosing just one.
Stone Fort tops his list thanks to its endless variety of classic problems, but thanks to the Sickness competition and many days spent out with friends, the SCC’s very own Hospital Boulders also holds a special place in his heart.
That appreciation extends beyond the climbing itself.
“The SCC has truly done a lot for my relationship with climbing,” Brandon says. “Hosting events like competitions, MOBB, BYOB, and more are fantastic ways to meet new people, get stoked for sending different climbs, and build a stronger community. I also appreciate how the SCC works to protect or acquire access to different climbing areas to make it available for everyone.”
It’s a reminder that the SCC does more than protect climbing access. It creates opportunities for climbers to meet, volunteer, compete, and become part of something bigger than themselves.
Brandon has experienced that firsthand—not just as a participant, but as one of the volunteers helping make these events possible.
We are so thankful for all the help Brandon has offered over the years- people like him are why we are able to keep operating and putting on community events. So, if you see Brandon around one of his favorite boulder fields or crushing it at the gym, be sure to say Hi & thank him for his dedication to the southeastern climbing community.
Join Brandon at Members Only Boulder Brawl
Looking for a fun way to get involved with the climbing community?
Members Only Boulder Brawl (MOBB) returns to Horse Pens 40 on September 12, bringing together SCC members for a day of climbing, friendly competition, and community.
Interested in volunteering? Email maddi@seclimbers.org to sign up.
Already an SCC member? Register for Members Only Boulder Brawl
Not a member yet? There’s never been a better time to join. Your membership helps protect climbing access, support events like MOBB, and strengthen the climbing community across the Southeast.
We hope to see you there!