Division I regional track finals
Fenwick graduation 2012
Ponitz graduation 2012
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June 2010
Marshall basketball coach moving to Edison CC
John Ralph, who spent eight years coaching the Marshall High School boys basketball team, has accepted the men’s basketball head coaching position at Edison Community College in Piqua.
Ralph said the timing for a move felt right when a senior class with which he had grown close, including forward Greg Gainey and guard Shawn Robinson, graduated in the spring. In talking with a coaching friend about the class moving on, Ralph learned Edison was searching for a coach, and he met with Edison Athletic Director Chip Hare.
Ralph’s resignation will be effective July 15, said Jonas Smith, the Dayton Public Schools athletic director.
“It was completing a big cycle,” Ralph said about the senior class, which as juniors (including guard Juwan Staten) advanced to the Division II state championship game. Last season, after Staten departed for Oak Hill Academy, the Cougars lost to eventual state champion Dunbar in a D-II regional final.
“I’m not bashful in telling anybody that those guys — Greg Gainey, Shawn Robinson, Juwan Staten before he left, then others, people who didn’t have marquee names — beyond being good basketball players they are such great people. They’re good students and citizens and come from solid families.”
Ralph is a former assistant coach at Alter High School and spent time as a volunteer assistant coach at Sinclair Community College early in the 2000s. He said his time with Sinclair helped him feel familiar with Edison, the junior college level and the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference, of which Edison is a member.
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TweetXenia Christian boys hoop position open
Xenia Christian High School is accepting applications for the boys varsity basketball position.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to contact Athletic Director Nate Baker by e-mail at nbaker@daytonchristian.com or phone (937) 352-1652).
The interview process will begin immediately.
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Tweet9 area grads to receive OHSAA scholar-athlete awards
Nine area students are among 54 from throughout the state who will receive Ohio High School Athletic Association scholarships on Friday, June 18.
A total of $66,000 will be handed out in the 18th annual OHSAA scholar-athlete banquet at the Crowne Plaza Columbus North in Columbus.
“This is always a tremendous way for the OHSAA to wrap up the school year,” said OHSAA Commissioner Dr. Dan Ross in a statement.
“To see these young people honored for what they have accomplished academically is very rewarding, and they all are shining examples of what it means to be a student-athlete.”
The scholarships are funded by the Farmers Insurance Group, Taco Bell, Nike and the OHSAA Foundation.
Southwest District OHSAA scholar athletes:
Christopher Ball, Russia, 4.0 GPA, track & field, cross country;
Devan Bruner, Greenville, 3.63 GPA, golf, softball;
Allison Chin, Tippecanoe, 4.0 GPA, track & field, cross country;
Ryan Christmann, Tecumseh, 4.0 GPA, football, basketball, baseball;
Peter Hix, Oakwood, 3.47 GPA, track & field, cross country;
Wesley Hunsucker, Anna, 3.98 GPA, basketball, football, baseball;
Mary Turvy, Fenwick, 4.0 GPA, soccer;
Tyler Wasserman, Mechanicsburg, 4.18 GPA, wrestling, football, track & field;
Elisabeth Wheeler, Brookville, 4.0 GPA, volleyball, track & field, basketball;
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TweetMcSurley misses deadline to be rehired as Clinton-Massie’s football, wrestling coach
Longtime Clinton-Massie head football and wrestling coach Dan McSurley is out as coach of both those sports.
For now.
Like many school districts, C-M coaching contracts are renewed each year. However, according to the Wilmington News Journal and JJ Huddle, McSurley missed the mid-May deadline to reapply for either position.
New superintendent Dr. Mike Sander reportedly informed McSurley that both his coaching contracts would not be renewed and that the positions would be posted. A football coach is expected to be announced at the July 19 school board meeting.
McSurley has since expressed interest in reclaiming both positions.
The Falcons are members of the South Central Ohio League and located at Clarksville, near Wilmington. McSurley has been C-M’s head football coach since 1996. The last eight seasons Clinton-Massie is 81-15 with eight straight playoff appearances. Massie (12-1) suffered its only loss last year to Alter in the D-IV regional final, 32-7.
As the head wrestling coach, McSurley has produced three state champions.
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TweetDunbar’s Geron Johnson signs with Chipola (Fla.) junior college
Recent Dunbar High School grad and basketball standout Geron Johnson has signed to play basketball at Chipola (Fla.) College.
The 6-3 standout guard chose the junior college over Miami-Dade. Johnson is planning to spend the next two seasons at Chipola, located at Marianna, Fla., near the Alabama border. That would leave him with two years of eligibility at an NCAA Division I program.
Chipola is recognized as a national JC power and has sent scores of players to D-I powers. Current Kansas guard Mario Little is a Chipola alum, as was former Ohio State player JeKel Foster.
Johnson averaged a team-high 16.8 points in leading the Wolverines (25-3) to their third D-II state title in the last five years this past season. He saved his best for last, pouring 24 points and seven assists on previously unbeaten Port Clinton in the 64-50 title game victory.
Johnson was named the DDN D-II player of the year and the D-II state tourney MVP.
He’s the third member of the team to sign. Guard Ryan Bass is headed to Oakland (Mich.) and guard Deon Stewart signed with another JC power, Harcum (Pa.) College.
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TweetCenterville football camp for grades 1-8
The Centerville High School football camp for grades 1-8 will be held July 19-23 at the stadium. Each session runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
To pre-register see the web site centerville.k12.oh.us/Athletics and download the camp brochure. There is also first-day signup from 8:30-9:15 a.m. at the locker room entrance. Shorts, T-shirt, helmet, and water bottle should be brought each day.
Besides the basics, the non-contact camp also will consist of specialized training for more advanced campers. If you are unable to acquire a helmet from your team, one will be made available,
Cost is $55 ($60 after July 1) and includes an official camp T-shirt.
For additional information about the camp or registration forms, contact head coach Ron Ullery at 885-2402 or 439-3517 or contact the athletic office at 439-3516.
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TweetWith a little help from his father, Mike Schneider receives Lifetime Achievement Award
CLAYTON — Mike Schneider attributed to being awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award during Friday’s MVFCA Pigskin Classic to home-field advantage.
That probably didn’t hurt. But more likely, 35 years of coaching area high school football was the deciding factor.
“I think I had the home-field advantage,” Schneider said following the South’s 31-12 defeat of the North at Northmont High School’s Good Samaritan Stadium/Matt Dudon Field on Friday, June 11.
“Plenty of other coaches could have got the same award. … I’ve been lucky. I got to work with a lot of great coaches and a lot of great kids.”
Schneider, a Miamisburg grad and standout QB, resurrected the Vikings football program from 1976-80. Then it was on to Wayne, where he turned the Warriors into an area big-school heavyweight. Ironically, his first seasons at both programs came off 0-10 years.
Since 1999 he’s been at Northmont as the offensive coordinator for his son, head coach Lance Schneider. Together, they have helped mold the Thunderbolts into annual D-I playoff contenders, won seven league titles and advance to the playoffs seven times.
“(Coaching with Lance) is great,” he said. “I’m having as much fun now as I’ve ever had.
“I had a great situation at Wayne and we’ve got another great situation here.”
Lance is a third-generation head coach. Mike’s father, Hank, also was a long-time influence throughout the area, serving as head coach at Miamisburg, Chaminade, Waynesville and Stebbins. Hank, deceased, was inducted into the Ohio Coaches Hall of Fame in 1992.
“Dad helped me love the game,” Mike said.
“I started going to games when I was 3 years old. That’s all I’ve ever known on Friday night. He’s probably checking this out and I’m sure he’s very happy.”
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TweetOHSAA holds final board meeting for 2009-10 school year
The following was released by Tim Stried, Director of Information Services for the OHSAA on Thursday, June 10:
COLUMBUS - The Ohio High School Athletic Association Board of Directors held its June Board meeting Thursday morning at the OHSAA office in Columbus. The following are highlights of action taken by the Board. The complete set of meeting minutes will be posted at a later date at OHSAA.org.
The meeting Thursday was the last regularly-scheduled Board meeting for the 2009-10 school year. The 2010-11 OHSAA Board of Directors will hold its first meeting on August 5.
• The Board did not receive a recommendation from the football championships site selection committee regarding the current proposal process that is underway. The site selection committee will continue to meet and discuss the proposals during the summer before summoning the Board of Directors for a vote that is expected to take place next month.
• Board president Steve Stirn reviewed the list of goals that the Board of Directors established prior to the 2009-10 school year. The list including implementation of a technology plan, careful evaluation of the OHSAA’s financial status and long-term strength so that no further cuts would be needed, review of 7th and 8th grade programs, establishment of a records retention and retrieval process, implementation of a strategic plan, creating enhanced communications from the OHSAA office, enhanced promotion of sportsmanship, ethics and integrity and assisting in meeting the needs of the OHSAA Foundation.
• The OHSAA imposed penalties against four member schools during the last month that violated OHSAA bylaws or sports regulations. The list of infractions is always included in the complete meeting minutes that will be posted to OHSAA.org, but media members may request the list prior to it being posted by contacting Tim Stried, OHSAA Director of Information Services.
• By an 8-1 vote, the Board approved a proposal from the Wrestling Coaches Association to implement a dual meet state tournament, to begin during the 2012-13 school year, which will be conducted in addition to the current individual state tournament. Further details will be forthcoming from the Coaches Association and the OHSAA.
• The Board acted on two proposals from the Basketball Coaches Association. The Board denied (by a 5-4 vote) a proposal to allow schools to play 22 regular-season games beginning during the 2011-12 school year. The Board tabled a proposal to allow individual instruction during open gym settings.
• The Board voted on two proposals from the Ice Hockey Coaches Association. The Board approved a proposal to extend the length of periods from 15 minutes to 17 minutes on an optional basis during regular season contests. The Board denied (by a 7-2 vote) a proposal to expand the state tournament weekend which would change the number of qualifying teams from four to eight.
• Associate Commissioner Dr. Deborah Moore noted that 71 percent of member school principals voted in the recent referendum process and that a series of bulletins will be emailed to all member schools to provide more information about key changes to the bylaws and constitution.
• Four Regional Update Meetings have been scheduled for August in which OHSAA senior staff will meet with member school administrators to discuss current topics. Commissioner Ross will review current issues that will include an update on the competitive balance committee (public vs. non-public), Dr. Moore will address transfer and eligibility issues and Steve Craig, the OHSAA’s legal counsel, will discuss current legal issues. The meetings are Aug. 10 at Gahanna Lincoln High School; Aug. 12 at the University of Findlay; Aug. 17 at Wright State University, and Aug. 19 at Hudson High School.
• The Board approved the 2010-11 Handbook for Officials.
• The Board approved tournament regulations in the fall sports of football, girls tennis, golf, field hockey, cross country, soccer and volleyball. The tournament regulations will soon be posted to OHSAA.org.
• Dave Gray, superintendent of Franklin Monroe Local Schools in Pitsburg, was elected president of the Board of Directors for the 2011-12 school year, while Steve Keller, principal of Coldwater High School, was elected vice-president.
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TweetMichael Dalton takes over Centerville girls golf program
Michael Dalton has been promoted from the Centerville girls assistant golf coach to its head coach. He replaces Jon Wanders.
Dalton has been an assistant golf coach the last five seasons. He also has been a girls freshman basketball coach the last four seasons.
Dalton teaches social studies at the high school. He is a Monroe H.S. and Miami University grad.
Centerville is the defending GWOC Central Division and Division I sectional champion.
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TweetSports City U Basketball Academy at Troy H.S.
Who: Sports City U Basketball Academy founder Jim Clayton.
What: One-day hoops clinic for boys and girls grades 6-12.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, June 18.
Where: Troy H.S.
Cost: $75; $60 if coaches bring five or more players. Registration at 8:30 a.m. day of event.
Notable: Jim Clayton is nationally known as the top shooting instructor and skill development coach on shooting and offensive skill development. This is an intense no nonsense seven-hour training session. Campers should bring a basketball.
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TweetGem City kicking camps at Wayne H.S.
What: Gem City kicking camps.
Where: Wayne H.S.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday, June 21, kickers; 3-4:30 p.m. holders.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 22, punters; 3-4:30 p.m. snappers.
Cost: $60 for one kicking/punting session; $100 for both. $15 for one holding/snapping session.
Contact: Mike Pignatiello at drmike@gemcitykicking.com or call 760-0727.
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TweetKathy Mobley fulfilled her dream by winning Miami Valley’s first state title
The Miami Valley School’s 400-meter relay victory in the Division III state track and field meet at Columbus last Saturday, June 5 was NOT the first state T&F title won by the Rams in program history, as previously reported in HS Huddle and the DDN.
Longtime DDN writer Dave Long and former University of Dayton women’s coach Lefty Martin both confirmed that the honor goes to sprinter Kathy Mobley, who won the Class A 100 state title in 1980. Her clocking of 12.20 was a small-school record for many years.
But that isn’t the best part of Mobley’s story.
The DDN preps beat writer back then, Long found his clips that detailed how Mobley first ran track as a junior and won district and regional titles wearing her coach’s old soccer shoes. Spikes finally on her feet, she won the state 100 that spring.
The next year her blocks slipped at the start of the district 100 and longtime official Jim Ehler DQ’ed her. Ehler just this past winter retired from coaching basketball at Northmont and worked the regional T&F meet at Welcome Stadium just two weeks ago.
Long reports that during an interview after the DQ, “she said she was having trouble concentrating on track because she needed a subject for the state speech contest. Being black, I asked her if she had ever heard Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. She hadn’t, heard the tape, did her own version of the speech and won the state speech contest the day after she won the state 200 meters.”
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TweetTrotwood-Madison sets 1,600 relay record third straight year, but loses team title to Warren Harding
COLUMBUS — Trotwood-Madison did it again.
For the third straight year, the Rams finished the Division I state track and field meet by setting an all-time, all-division record in the 1,600-meter relay.
The foursome of Julius Ruby, Jordon Paschal, Renon Lorenz and William Henry turned in a 3:13.05. That was slightly better than the 3:13.32 that Paschal, Henry, Ruby and Michael Jordan ran in 2009.
T-M also set the record in 2008.
Even better, Trotwood defeated relay runner-up Cleveland Glenville in the race. The only problem was the Rams couldn’t beat Warren Harding.
Boosted by just as much quality speed, Harding clinched the meet by placing 1-4 in the 200 meters. That gave Harding a 47-34 lead over T-M with only the meet-ending 1,600 relay left.
Harding is out of runners, but the Rams can move no closer than 10 more points with the relay win. Glenville, also in the 1,600 relay, is stuck in third with 24 points.
Trotwood-Madison’s William Henry won the 400 (47.50) after placing second in the 100 (10.80). The only problem with that is 100 winner DeAver Williamson is from Harding.
Henry also added a second in the 200 (21.47), but once again was nosed out by Harding’s Williamson (21.46).
• Lebanon delivered on what it had been doing all season, winning the Division I 400-meter relay at the 103rd state track and field meet on Saturday, June 5, at OSU’s Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
The foursome of Steven Gabbard, Trey bonny, Luke Norris and Chase Cochran overcame a couple of flawed handoffs to run down runner-up Columbus Northland and mighty Cleveland Glenville in 42.13. And that wasn’t close to their prelim effort of 41.77.
• Wayne senior Demoye Bogle opened the delayed final meet of the day by winning the 110 high hurdles (14.15). Placing second was GWOC Central rival Alex Gaskins of Springfield (14.24).
Bogle added a second in the 300 hurdles when leader Luke Norris of Lebanon stumbled over the last hurdle and placed third.
• Centerville’s Michael Bennett was third in the shot put (59-10.75), but fouled three times and slipped to sixth in the discus (172-8).
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TweetOakwood’s Peter Hix and Antonio Blanks win their specialties and Dunbar ties Akron buchtel for third
COLUMBUS — All Peter Hix wanted to do was finish one place better than last year’s runner-up in the Division II state meet at 1,600 meters.
Done deal.
The Oakwood senior broke from the pack after two laps, finally settled into the lead with 300 meters left and held off a strong challenge from Versailles super freshman Sam Prakel to win the state title on Saturday, June 5 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
That completed an undefeated season in the event for the Brown University signee, who finished in 4:17.48. Prakel was second in 4:18.01.
• Dunbar placed second in the 1,600 relay and tied Akron Buchtel for third overall in the boys team race with 30 points.
Pemberville Eastwood amassed its winning 38 points when Cody Seifert placed third in the 200. Peninsula Woodridge picked up four points in the 3,200 to collect 32 overall for second. Dunbar needed to win the 1,600 relay to tie Woodridge for second overall.
Dunbar’s quest for the boys team title didn’t get off the preferred start when junior Antonio Blanks was left in the blocks and placed seventh in the 100 (11.24).
The Wolverines fared one place better in the 800 relay with a sixth (1:29.30), but then slipped back to seventh in the 400 relay.
Blanks won the 300 hurdles (37.86) and unloaded an anchor leg of 48-flat in the 1,600 relay, but couldn’t overtake Poland Seminary (3:19.42). Dunbar needed to place much higher in those earlier events to have any shot at an elusive team title.
Still, it was a great rare showing from a Dayton City League school at this meet. And the best thing is all eight Wolverines who ran this weekend are underclassmen.
• Marshall’s Donte McDaniel led for most of the 110 high hurdles but was overtaken by Doran Grant of Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary by an eyelash, 14.31 to 14.33.
McDaniel also was sixth (39.07) in the 300 hurdles.
• Lizzie Gleason of Chaminade Julienne broke from a pack in the final lap of the 1,600 and led for much of the final straight but was outleaned by Christina blair of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy to also place second (5:00.36).
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TweetVersailles wins D-III girls state team title; Miami Valley takes final girls race
COLUMBUS — Tammy Berger won the 3,200 meters and Versailles wrapped up its first girls Division III state track and field team title on Saturday, June 5 at Ohio State University’s Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
The Tigers led defending champ Gates Mills Gilmour Academy by 3.5 points going into the 3,200, but had no runners in that event. With the sophomore’s 10 points, Versailles clinched the title with a 13.5-point lead with only the 1,600 relay remaining.
Gilmour and Versailles were 2-3 in that final race, but Miami Valley won (3:59.45), the first time the Rams have ever won an event at this meet.
Versailles piled up a winning 47.5 points to Gilmour’s 36. Berger’s effort in the 3,200 was the Tigers’ only win. but they also bunched a pair of seconds and two thirds for the bulk of its points.
Last season Gilmour beat Versailles for the team title, 73-62. The Tigers’ point total in 2009 was enough to win every small-school state meet from 1985-2007.
Versailles’ girls started their run for a state D-III team title by placing second in the 800 relay. The Tigers were run down by Steubenville Catholic Central anchor Teddi Jo Maslowski, who earlier set a state meet record in the 100 hurdles (14.44).
Members of MV’s winning foursome were Caitlin Pohl, Shelby Carpenter, Lauren Shaver and Elaina Cromer. That allowed the Rams to vault to seventh place (20 points).
bull&; Juli Accurso of Miami East posted the Miami Valley’s first win.
The senior won the D-III 1,600 meters (4:57.50). Placing third was Versailles’ Berger (5:02.75), the second straight year she’s been third in the event.
Accurso also added a fourth in the 800.
bull&; Gretchen Walter of Lehman Catholic joined Accurso as the area’s second winner when she took the 400 (57.26). The junior also added a couple of seconds in the 100 (12.28) and 200 (25.37).
That accounted for all of the Cavs’ 26 points, good for fourth as a team.
bull&; In all, D-III area athletes claimed six titles. also winning were Minster’s Sam Philpot in the 200 (22.04) and Isiah Bragg of Springfield Emmanuel Christian Academy in the 3,200 (9:22.13).
bull&; Anna’s Kameron Knight opened the D-III boys meet by placing seventh in the 100 meters, then was part of the Rockets’ runner-up 800 relay. He also was part of Anna’s second-place 400 relay and was eighth in the 200 to complete a busy and productive day.
bull&; Sprinter Mario Cosey was fifth in the 100 for Yellow Springs’ boys. He then was part of the Bulldogs’ eighth-place 800 relay.
bull&; Katie Bunker of Cedarville held the lead for most of the 800 but was overtaken by Rebekka Simko of Gates Mills Gilmour Academy in the final turn to place second (2:13.75).
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TweetCarly Hamilton rallies Springboro to 5th in girls 3,200 relay
COLUMBUS — Springboro’s Carly Hamilton saved her best for last.
Running anchor on the Panthers’ 3,200-meter relay, the junior middle distance standout zoomed from 11th to fifth (9:23.50) in the Division I state track and field meet on Friday, June 4 at Ohio State’s Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
It’s the first time Boro has placed in the event in three straight years, all races that Hamilton has run.
“I just put it all out there,” she said.
“That was our goal, to get on the podium. I knew I had to get some places.”
Joining her were Katie Kessler, Alex Mahle and Rachael Mahle.
Hamilton will be among the favorites in the D-I 1,600 today. She’ll also run the 800.
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TweetAlter places second to St. V in favorite relay
COLUMBUS — Each of Alter’s four runners sat in wilted and stunned silence, unsuccessfully trying to console each other. They had come to the state track and field meet to win their favorite event, the 3,200-meter relay.
“I think we’ll appreciate it more afterward,” said junior Rebecca Esselstein after the Knights finished second to Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary in the only running event final Friday, June 4 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium at Ohio State University.
“Yes, we’re disappointed because we wanted a second straight title, but we all ran our hardest. It was a heck of a race.”
Leadoff runner Ashley Rodgers was boxed in for most of her second lap. By the time Austin Borton handed off to Esselstein the Knights were mired in sixth.
Esselstine took the lead in the final straight but tied up in the final meters. That allowed St. V to bolt ahead and anchor Olivia Albers couldn’t make up the difference.
Still, Alter (9:18.21) improved by seven seconds from last week’s district.
The event is a signature race for the Knights. They’ve placed first or second at state in all but one year since 2004, winning in ’04, ’07 and ’09.
“We always have such high expectations and we expect the best out of ourselves,” Albers said.
“We have to be proud of what we did. We ran our best and we can’t be disappointed in that. We just didn’t win.”
Tippecanoe’s relay drive to podium crumbles at finish
Tyler Feitshans suffered the cruelest of fates.
The Tippecanoe 3,200 relay anchor had eighth place — and a coveted spot on the podium — locked up. Then his legs likewise locked up.
“Toward the end, I felt myself starting to get tired, but I knew I had to keep pushing,” the senior explained.
“I just went a little too hard and didn’t make it to the finish line.”
Feitshans crumbled to the track with about five meters remaining. A meet official started toward him, then backed off as he gathered himself and scooped up the baton.
Staggering forward, he finally finished. His teammates rushed to help him off the track.
Tipp didn’t make the podium, placing 11th, but Feitshans won over an appreciative crowd, which roared in approval as he wobbled forward.
“My legs just felt like weights,” he said. “I tried to mentally push through it, but my legs gave out from under me.
“You realize that your chances that you’re working for are done at that point.”
Feitshans was a member of Tipp relays that placed 10th in the event at state the previous two years. That’s why he was so determined to cracked the top eight as a senior.
“You gotta feel for him,” said teammate Kevin Fink.
“You knew he was going all out. He was trying to make sure we got that spot. You can definitely emphasize with him a lot.”
Marshall hurdler Donte McDaniel posts bests qualifying time in highs
Marshall hurdler Donte McDaniel is driven to succeed at state.
“I got heart,” the senior said.
“This is serious to me. I don’t play around, not even in practice. This is my legacy.”
McDaniel is the only Cougar boy to advance, but he provides plenty of quality. He posted the best finals qualifying time in the 110 high hurdles (14.32) and was second to Dunbar rival Antonio Blanks in the 300 hurdles (38.70).
They are the latest in a long and outstanding run of City League hurdles to fare well at state.
“I told myself, when I come out here, I’m winning those races,” McDaniel said.
“I don’t have anything to lose. I’m a senior, I’m going to run my hardest in everything. I’m going to win the 110’s and go with Antonio in the 300’s.”
Blanks hasn’t beaten McDaniel in the highs this season. But McDaniel hasn’t beaten Blanks in the longer race. Blanks was a DQ in the regional highs.
This won’t be the last time these two teams hook up. All four Knights are underclassmen and St. V loses just one senior.
Dunbar hopes to overcome injury to key relays member Roger Williamson
Dunbar’s Roger Williamson was reduced to tears, and he didn’t even race.
That’s because a day earlier the talented junior pulled a hamstring while practicing handoffs at Owens Stadium. A major force in all three of Dunbar’s state qualifying relays, he instead didn’t watch from the stands as the Wolverines tweaked and jumbled their lineup in far to many events.
“It’s disappointing,” he said. “I couldn’t even watch the races, even though we made it to the finals, I couldn’t watch.
“It made me want to cry, bad. I just huddled with my mom and she told me how the races were going.”
Dunbar had high hopes of contending for the D-II boys title. This won’t make it any easier.
The Wolverines barely advanced in two of the races. Its 400 relay qualified eighth (last) and the 800 relay seventh. Coach Sidney Booker, ever the optimist, pulled Antonio Blanks from the 200 and had him replace Williamson in that 800 relay.
In the 1,600 relay, Blanks blew open a great anchor leg as Dunbar posted the best prelin effort (3:19.87).
Blanks also posted the best 300 hurdles time (37.86) but was the last qualifier in the 100. Long jumper Jaecob Snow picked up five points by placing fourth (21-8.75).
The Wolverines must click on all cylinders in its bid for a title today.
“We’ll be all right,” Blanks said. “I told (Williamson) not to worry about (Friday). Just worry about (today) when it comes. You’ve got to get there, first.
“We still have a grip on this thing. It’s not over until it’s over.”
Williamson will know before the 1 p.m. meet start time if he’s ready. If not, Blanks, Nicholas Lane and Michael Ohiembor will sub once again.
“This is crazy,” Williamson said.
“I’ll do as much as I can to get better. I don’t want to let my team down.”
• Laron Brown of Chaminade Julienne had nothing left for the 200 after getting out in the 100 and 400.
Brown had the best 400 qualifier (48.30) and was second in the 100 (11.18). The Eagles were a scratch in the 800 relay.
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TweetVersailles second to Gilmour Aca. in meet-opening 3,200 relay
COLUMBUS — The race is on between Versailles and defending Division III girls state champ Gates Milles Gilmour Academy.
Gilmour opened the 103rd state track and field meet at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium on Friday, June 4 by winning the 3,200-meter relay (9:31.30). Versailles was second (9:35.80) and Minster fifth.
Last year Gilmour beat Versailles 73-62 to win the team title in one of the highest scoring two-team races in meet history. The Tigers’ 62 points would have won every small-school girls state title from from 1988-2007.
Gilmour has just one other relay here, the meet-ending 1,600 relay. It also has just two 1,600 runners and another in the 800.
Versailles is loaded with all four relays and five individuals. And the Tigers are in great shape, posting the the best 1,600 relay qualifying time, and second best in the 800 and 400 relays and advancing Margaret Prakel in the 400 and Ashley DeMange in the 200.
Of all those events, Gilmour advanced only its 1,600 relay (third).
Today’s only running final is the 3,200 relay in all three divisions. All the other running events are prelims. The top eight in each race advance to Saturday’s finals. Half of the D-II and D-III field events are today.
The Miami Valley running wounded
Miami Valley’s girls should get some kind of medal for playing hurt.
Three members of the Rams 400 relay are coming off injuries. Super senior Elaina Cromer is nursing a sore hamstring and shin splints. Shelby Carpenter has an aggravated hip and Laura Cooney is mostly recovered from a hamstring pull.
Only Keta Burke-Williams is fully healthy, and she anchored MV to the third-best finals qualifying time (49.79).
“There was a lot to overcome just to get here,” Burke-Williams said.
“It’s the end of the season and everything is finally coming together.”
Carpenter did a facial on the track after diving over the finish on her anchor leg of the 1,600 relay. The Rams were second (4:03.66) in qualifying to Versailles (4:02.99).
Two years ago Cromer gamely ran in four events, including three individual races. She has since shifted mostly to relays. But she wilted in her only open prelim, the 400.
She found new life in the 1,600 relay, making a big move on the backstretch to put the Rams in contention.
“I just had to get out of the box and something turned on,” she said.
“It was tough dealing with the heat and a lot of long races back to back.”
Plenty of stretching keeps her sore hamstring in check. Orthotics did the trick with the shin splints.
“The day after I got them, it started going away,” she said. “So it’s been a miracle.”
Redskins’ Olberding playing hurt
Fort Loramie sensation Janel Olberding is probably more prepared for a swim meet than a track meet.
The junior blew a tendon in her left leg in the Redskins’ D-IV state semifinal basketball loss to Harvest Prep in mid-March. She spent the entire spring rehabbing in a pool and just three weeks ago had a boot cast removed.
Her first race of the season was at the district.
Last season at the state track and field meet she was second in the 400 meters and 1,600 relay, third in the 3,200 relay and eighth in the 200.
“It was disappointing and I’d love to be here in more events,” she said. “But really, I’m just happy to be back on the track.”
She helped the Redskins post the fifth-best qualifying time in the 800 relay (1:45.70) for Saturday’s finals. It’s the only event she’ll run.
“I got done with this and I was like, OK, let’s go do some more,” she said.
“I tried doing the 400 and 200, but it was too much for my foot. I’m just going to give my body a good rest this summer so I can have a good senior year.”
• Xenia Christian junior Loria Williams advanced to the D-III finals in both hurdles races. Freshman teammate Michaela Nelson joined her in the 200. Besides basketball and track, Olberding also is state caliber in cross country.
• If Gretchen Walter of Lehman Catholic doesn’t win the 200, there’s always the 400.
The junior speedster posted the best 400 qualifying time (58.37) and was second in 200 qualifying (25.77).
• Kameron Knight delivered for Anna. The senior helped the Rockets post the fastest 400 relay (43.04), second-best 800 relay (1:29.79) and also qualified seventh in the 100 and 200.
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TweetWayne’s Miller chooses Ohio State
HUBER HEIGHTS — What had been assumed for days became official at Wayne High School on Thursday, June 3 — Warriors quarterback Braxton Miller said he will play football for Ohio State beginning in 2011.
Miller, one of the state’s most coveted recruits who also is one of the country’s best according to some recruiting services, will play his fourth season as Wayne’s starting quarterback in the fall before joining the Buckeyes.
Miller made his announcement in the Wayne auditorium.
“It just reminded me of my hometown and Wayne,” Miller, a former Springfield resident, said about Ohio State.
Hats representing Ohio State, Florida, Notre Dame, Georgia and Alabama were placed on a table before Miller made his announcement.
He and those around him all but revealed the decision in interviews on Tuesday, when he called a news conference for Thursday to announce his decision. Although he held offers for many of the country’s most powerful programs, Miller said he narrowed his choices to Ohio State and Florida before deciding to head to Columbus.
One of the most highly recruited area players in recent memory, Miller becomes the Buckeyes’ 12th commitment in the Class of 2011. But, he could be one of the most important, as many believe Ohio State will groom him to succeed quarterback Terrelle Pryor.
Miller joins Centerville’s Michael Bennett, a two-way lineman, as a Miami Valley commitment to Ohio State.
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TweetBradford in need of head football coach
Bradford High School is accepting applications for the position of head football coach for the upcoming season.
Openings in the district include AD/Dean of Students and Intervention Specialist.
E-mail or mail all application materials to Superintendent Jeff Patrick at jeff_patrick@darke.k12.oh.us or 750 Railroad Ave., Bradford, OH 45308.
Deadline is Friday, June 12.
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TweetThe buzz on Braxton Miller
Braxton Miller, the Wayne High School junior quarterback desired by most of the country’s football powers, will announce his college decision at a news conference on Thursday, June 3.
Dayton Daily News reporter Doug Harris spent much of the day tracking down information on Miller and talking with those close to him and who have tracked him to paint a picture of the senior-to-be ranked among the best - if not the very best - recruits in the country by most services.
Miller told Harris that making up his mind is a “big relief. It’s been a lot of calls. People just want to talk. They want an update.”
With his choices narrowed to Ohio State and Florida (and most believing he’ll choose Ohio State), many believe the Buckeyes get a boost because Florida has received a commitment from Jeff Driskel.
Would Florida having signed the No. 1 Rivals.com QB in his class discourage him from going there?
“Not at all,” he said.
What others had to say about Miller:
“He’s not arrogant. He’s modest. He really didn’t want to do the press conference, he’s not a big limelight guy. He just wants to get better. That’s what I like about him the most.” — Wayne football coach Jay Minton.
“He’s so competitive. His competitive nature is intriguing. To watch him grow the last three years … I’m glad kids can’t leave high school early. To watch him grow and mature has been fascinating.” — Minton
Minton almost gave it away: “Wherever your kids go, you want to make sure they’re playing for great coach. Tress just does it right. We’re excited about … I’d better be careful. I’m not very smart, am I?”
“I’m just real impressed with him over the way he’s handled all this. A lot of kids would be arrogant. A lot of kids would think they’re better than anybody else. And it would distract them. He does such a great job with it.” — Minton
“He fits the Ohio State offense to a ‘T.’ This is what (OSU coach) Jim Tressel wants. He inherited the pocket passers he’s had. He wanted a Troy Smith. He wanted a Terrelle Pryor. He wants a Braxton Miller. He wants a kid who can make plays with his feet. And this kid can bust open a game at any time just taking off. He’s a dangerous, dangerous football player.” — Duane Long, who’s covered OSU recruiting for years and has started his own website (DuaneLongReport.com).
“The thing I like about him as a quarterback is his incredibly quick release. That’s something that gets overlooked when you start looking at the best quarterbacks around, that ability to get rid of the ball before defenses can react to what’s going on in front of them. The other thing is just how polished he is. This is ready to play quarterback from the moment he steps on the football field. There’s going to be very little that’s going to have to be taught. He’s so well-schooled.” — Long
“I think it has been (decided) really for some time. His lack of interest in other schools — that’s something to keep track of. He wasn’t really going anywhere. He wasn’t really running around to other schools.” - Long, who thinks Miller is an OSU lock because the only other schools he visited are Michigan, West Virginia and Cincinnati, and he’s said his final two choices are OSU and Florida.
“He’s a classic guy who can turn nothing into something. If you don’t get a good bead on him, there’s a real good chance he’s going to escape from you in the pocket. And his pure speed at the quarterback position is very unusual.” — Allen Wallace, national recruiting director for Scout.com and publisher of SuperPrep Magazine
“One of the things I like about him is he looks tough, at least from how he plays from a physical standpoint. He’s a very tricky runner. He runs like he has running back instincts. Ultimately the question with him will be, ‘How good can you throw?’ Throwing against high school kids is a lot different. I’d say his running game is a superior part of his game right now. If he can continue to improve as a thrower, as Terrelle Pryor has managed to do in college, he should, assuming he goes to Ohio State - which I think most people think he’ll do - he’ll be a great player in the ‘Shoe.” — Wallace
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TweetWayne’s Braxton Miller reportedly will verbally commit on Thursday
Wayne High School quarterback Braxton Miller will verbally commit on Thursday, June 3 at the school auditorium.
Athletic director and head football coach Jay Minton confirmed that the news conference will be held at noon.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder is among the nation’s most sought-after recruits. Among the BCS powers that have reportedly made offers to him are Ohio State, USC, Alabama, Cincinnati, Illinois, Michigan, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennesse, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Florida.
In 24 career games with the Warriors, Miller has completed 225 of 408 passes for 2,628 yards, 22 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. He also has 246 career rushes for 938 yards and 28 TD’s, including 17 last season.
Besides playing QB, Miller also is being touted as a possible defensive secondary player in college.
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TweetArea state track & field qualifiers
BOYS DIVISION I
Bellefontaine: Aaron Dunn 300H.
Centerville: Michael Bennett DT, SP; Jeremy Harrison 400R, LJ; Benny Mcgowan DT; Michael Melchor 400R; Matt Morgann 400R; Ifeadi Odenigbo 400R.
Carroll: Matt Bova 3200R; Steve Foreman 3200R; Josh Fortener 3200R; Chadd Kiggins 3200R, 1600; Michael Nwankwo HJ.
Fairborn: Brian Jennings SP.
Fairmont: Brandon O’Malley 800.
Lebanon: Aaron Abbott 1600R; Trey Bonny 400R; Chase Cochran 100, 400R, 200, 1600R; Steven Gabbard 400R; Luke Goshorn PV; Luke Norris 400R, 300H, 1600R; Richard Patterson 1600R.
Meadowdale: Darrlyn Bennett 400.
Miamisburg: Devon Bolden 1600R; Kyle Brewer 800R, 1600R; Anthony Covington 1600R; Cody Hamblin 800R; Stephen Parker 800R, 1600R; Jacob Willey 800R, 400.
Northmont: Jared Walker 100.
Piqua: Kurt Grove 800.
Springfield: Josh Bass LJ; Alex Gaskins 110H, 300H.
Trotwood-Madison: Cameron Burrows 800R; Dorian Davis LJ; Nicholas Grisby 400R; William Henry 100, 400, 200, 1600R; Renon Lorenz 800R, 400R, 1600R; Jordon Paschal 800R, 400R, 1600R; Julius Ruby 800R, 400R, 200, 1600R.
Vandalia Butler: Doug Norris 3200.
Wayne: Demoye Bogle 110H, 100, 300H, 200; Tyler Dukes SP; Jared Harrison DT; Michael Shiverdecker PV.
Wilmington: Tommy Swank 800.
BOYS DIVISION II
Brookville: Jacob Bench 3200R; Sam Bench 3200R; Ethan Leonard 3200R, 800; Matt Sewell 3200R.
CJ: Chris Boddie 800R; Laron Brown 100, 800R, 400, 200; Bryan Cain 110H, 800R, 300H; Darian Reynolds 800R, LJ.
Dunbar: Ralpheal Berry 800R, 400R; Eric Blair 800R, 400R, 1600R; Antonio Blanks 100, 300H, 200; Jason Holloway 800R, 400R, 1600R; Nicholas Lane 300H; Michael Ohiembor 800, 1600R; Jaecob Snow LJ; Roger Williamson 800R, 400R, 1600R.
Eaton: Cory McKinney SP; Alex Roach 110H.
Graham: Logan White DT, SP.
Marshall: Donte McDaniel 110H, 300H.
Mid. Madison: Cody Martini PV; Billy McGuire LJ.
Oakwood: Peter Hix 1600, 1600R; Keith Mueller 1600R; Chris Mullins 1600R; Zach Rodabaugh 1600R.
Spg. Northeastern: Ryan Adkins HJ; Caleb Raines 400.
Tippecanoe: Cody Conley 3200R; Tyler Feitshans 3200R; Kevin Fink 3200R, 3200; Sam Wharton 3200; Luke Zerkle 3200R.
Urbana: Josh Calhoun 400R; Nathan Cox 400R; Tanner Lawrence 400R; Darnyl Smith 400R.
Valley View: Jake Kasperski 1600, 3200.
Versailles: Tom Gorman 3200R, 1600R; Mitch Pitsenbarger 3200R, 1600R; Sam Prakel 3200R, 1600, 3200; Keith Schlater 3200R, 1600R; Tim Weaver PV; Damian Winner 400, 1600R.
Waynesville: Kevin Cornett DT.
BOYS DIVISION III
Anna: Dexter Bensman 800R, 400R; Jason Christman 800R, 400R; Cole Furgason 800R; Kameron Knight 100, 800R, 400R, 200; Maverick Long DT; Dan Stewart 400R.
Bethel: Sam Butler DT; Kyle Hamlin 1600; Scott Masin SP.
Cedarville: David Gayer 3200R; Troy Parrett 3200R, 800; Eli Pyles 3200R; Billy Vine 3200R; Zeke Young 400.
Coldwater: Trevor Kunk PV.
Covington: Ben Christian SP.
Dixie: Andrew Barnett 400R; Billy Hauser 400R; Ryan Jordan 400R; Tony Prater 400R.
Jefferson: Jerry Hahn 800R; Shawndale Lewis 800R; Alante Oliver 800R, 200; Bobby Potter 800R.
Houston: Tyler Roeth 3200.
Marion Local: Austin Berning 400R; Jake Heitkamp 400R; Niles Keller 400R; Greg Schwieterman HJ; Taylor Stucke 400R.
Miami East: Kyle Roeth PV; Brock Smith LJ.
Minster: Oliver Barga 3200R, 1600R; Jacob Dircksen 3200R; Sam Phlipot 100, 200, 1600R; Eric Piening 3200R, 1600R; Francis Slonkosky 3200R; Tyler Whitford 200, 1600R.
New Bremen: Justin Eilerman 3200R, 3200; Zach Speckman 110H, 1600R; Michael Travis 3200R, 1600R; Dillon Webster 3200R, 800, 1600R; Elliott Westerbeck 3200R, 1600R.
Russia: Chris Ball 3200R; Tyler Barlage 3200R; Tyler Francis 110H, 300H; Mason Hoying HJ; Luke Pohlman 3200R, 1600; Andy Toller 3200R.
Southeastern: Austin Mercer 300H.
Twin Valley South: George Holman 1600; Jordan Krickenbarger PV; Skylar Reckers HJ.
West Liberty-Salem: Eric Zirkle 110H, 300H.
Xenia Christian: Daniel Isaacs 400.
Yellow Springs: Mario Cosey 100, 800R; Chris Johnson 800R; Josh Meadows 800R; Logan Norris-Sayres 800R.
GIRLS DIVISION I
Lebanon: Jade Kinney 400, 1600R; Lyndsay Norris 1600R; Maria Rotello 100H, 300H, 1600R, LJ; Hannah Turpin 1600R.
Miamisburg: Megan Wright 1600.
Sidney: Jasmine Glover HJ.
Springboro: Carly Hamilton 3200R, 1600, 800; Katie Kessler 3200R, 800; Alex Mahle 3200R; Rachael Mahle 3200R, 3200.
Springfield: Rickisha Cochran 400R; Camille Hall 400R; Ashante Howard 400R; Alea Taylor 400R.
Troy: Maria Harrison DT.
Vandalia Butler: Marah Charbel 3200R; Kaitlyn Good 3200R, 800; Katie Merker 3200R; Emily Rike 3200R; Lucy Sherman DT.
Wayne: Jessica Berry PV.
Xenia: Rachelle Bowen 800R; Alexis Cokes 800R; Mari King 800R; Brittiney Latimer 800R, 200.
GIRLS DIVISION II
Alter: Olivia Albers 3200R, 1600, 1600R; Austin Borton 3200R; Ciara Dickerson 1600R; Rebecca Esselstein 3200R, 800; Natalia Martin 1600R; Ashley Rodgers 3200R, 1600R.
Brookville: Elisabeth Wheeler SP.
Carlisle: Taylor Scheffter 100H.
Coldwater: Veronica Bruns 800.
CJ: Cierra Brown 100H, 300H; Lizzie Gleason 1600; Devanae Mitchell 100.
Dunbar: Meghan Cherry 200.
Eaton: Andrea Brower SP.
Graham: Emily Cook DT; Alex Taylor 300H.
Greeneview: Shaytell Furman LJ.
Marshall: Sarah-Ann Blount 400R; Sakia Prude 400R; Asia Ray 400R; Ja’Naye Scott 400R.
Milton-Union: Nicole Klimkowski 3200.
Oakwood: Hanna French 3200R, 800, 1600R; Olivia Ireland 3200R, 1600R; M.E. Labrie 1600R; Maddie Maney 3200R; Kelsey McDonald 3200R, 400, 1600R.
Stivers: Kaila Brown 800R; Jasmine Lee 800R; Darrea Ragland 800R; Rolisha Slade 800R.
Valley View: Tessa Parks LJ.
Urbana: Emly Adair DT.
Waynesville: Jessica Dahnke DT.
GIRLS DIVISION III
Anna: Sarah Bruce 200.
Ansonia: Ariel Edwards HJ.
Botkins: Brittany Bailey 1600; Morgan Fullenkamp DT.
Cedarville: Samantha Boeck 3200R; Katie Bunker 3200R, 800; Emily Sheridan 3200R; Karyn Zaage 3200R.
Fort Loramie: Brittany Bollheimer 800R; Meghan Luthman 800R; Janel Olberding 800R; Katie Plas 800R, 300H.
Fort Recovery: Holly Brunswick HJ.
Houston: Allison Roeth 3200.
Lehman Catholic: Gretchen Walter 100, 400, 200.
Marion Local: Allison Bruns 800R; Brianna Hess 800R; Rachel Hess 800R, 400; Alyssa Homan 800R.
Miami East: Juli Accurso 1600, 800; Leah Dunivan SP; Corrine Melvin 100.
Miami Valley: Keta Burke-Williams 400R, LJ; Shelby Carpenter 400R, 1600R; Laurel Cooney 400R, LJ; Elaina Cromer 3200R, 400R, 400, 1600R; Lauren Mckenzie 3200R; Caitlin Pohl 100H, 1600R; Erika Shaver 3200R; Lauren Shaver 3200R, 1600R.
Minster: Jessica Albers 3200R; Hannah Butler 3200R; Maria Dahlinghaus 3200R, 1600R; Samantha Hoelscher 3200R, 1600R; Sarah Huelsman PV; Alyssa Kemper 1600R; Sophia Richard 1600R; Kayla Wuebker PV.
Preble Shawnee: Valerie Johnson SP.
Russia: Katie Borchers 800; Bethany York HJ.
Tri-County North: Myranda Schoen DT.
Troy Christian: Sarah Gaskell PV.
Versailles: Valerie Barga 800R, 400R, 1600R; Tammy Berger 3200R, 1600, 3200; Ashley DeMange 800R, 400R, 200, PV; Susan Grilliot 400R; Natalie Grillot 3200R; Margaret Prakel 800R, 400, 1600R; Lauren Rindler 3200R, 1600R; Kelsey Schlater 800R, 400R; Laura Schlater 3200R, 1600R.
Xenia Christian: Michaela Nelson 100, 200; Bethany Norman 3200; Loria Williams 100H, 300H.
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