The 2025-26 Central Ohio High School Sports Awards have unveiled a diverse range of exceptional coaches, each with their own remarkable stories of success and impact. Among the nominees, several stand out for their outstanding achievements and contributions to their respective sports.
One of the most notable figures is Josh Blakeman, the basketball coach at Circleville. Blakeman's first season with the Tigers was nothing short of extraordinary, leading them to their first regional championship and a Division IV state semifinal against the then-undefeated Bellevue. His ability to take over a program in the wake of a previous coach's resignation and guide it to a 23-5 record and a district title is a testament to his leadership and coaching prowess. What makes Blakeman's achievement even more impressive is the fact that he achieved this feat in just one season, setting a high bar for future coaches.
In the realm of lacrosse, Tim Bosco of Olentangy Liberty deserves recognition. Bosco's seven-year tenure with the program culminated in a remarkable achievement - the team's third consecutive Division I state championship. The fact that Liberty defeated OCC-Central rival Upper Arlington in the state final, 9-8, for the second year in a row, showcases the team's resilience and Bosco's strategic brilliance. The 124-32 win-loss record and 14-game winning streak to end the season further solidify Bosco's legacy as a top coach in the sport.
Ryan Callihan, the cross-country coach at Gahanna Lincoln, has also made a significant impact. His fifth season with the Lions was their most dominant, securing league and Division I regional championships, and ultimately, the team's first state title. Gahanna's consistent presence at the state level over the past three years is a testament to Callihan's ability to foster a culture of excellence and achievement.
Jared Dombrowski, the girls soccer coach at Upper Arlington, has also left his mark on the sport. In his second year with the program, Dombrowski guided the Golden Bears to the Division I state championship, showcasing his strategic acumen and ability to develop a winning culture. Dombrowski's previous success with New Albany, where he led the team to six league titles and a state semifinal in eight seasons, further underscores his coaching prowess.
Charlie Duncan, the softball coach at Danville, has also achieved remarkable success. With a starting lineup comprising five freshmen and senior pitcher Addy Bocock, the Blue Devils secured the Division VI state championship, their second overall and first since 2008. Duncan's 126-35 record in six seasons, including at least 20 wins in four of those years and three district titles, highlights his ability to build a strong and competitive program.
Katie Hill, a graduate of Newark Catholic, has made a significant impact as a coach. In her first season as head coach, Hill guided the Green Wave to a 27-0 season and the Division VII state title. Her background as a basketball, track and field, and volleyball athlete in high school, coupled with her experience as an assistant coach for the Green Wave, has undoubtedly contributed to her success as a leader on the court.
Kevin Moody, the softball coach at Hilliard Bradley, has earned the distinction of being Central Ohio's all-time winningest softball coach. With a remarkable 726-310 record in 41 seasons, Moody led the Jaguars to their first Division I state championship. The team's top seed in the district tournament and victory over Lancaster in the state final further solidify Moody's legacy as a coaching legend in the sport.
Terri Simonetti Frost, the field hockey coach at Thomas Worthington, has also achieved remarkable success. With nine championships in 27 seasons, including a state-record four in a row, Simonetti Frost has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her 423-85-32 record at Thomas and two-time National Federation of State High School Associations National Coach of the Year recognition further underscore her exceptional leadership and coaching abilities.
In conclusion, the 2025-26 Central Ohio High School Sports Awards have showcased a diverse range of exceptional coaches, each with their own unique stories of success and impact. From basketball to lacrosse, cross-country to soccer, softball to volleyball, and field hockey, these coaches have left an indelible mark on their respective sports, inspiring future generations of athletes and coaches alike.
