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1980 State Championship Baseball Team

Induction

2025

Sports

Baseball

Graduation

The 1980 Oak Hills Highlander Baseball Team captured the first state championship in school history, finishing 25–7 overall and 11–3 in league play. Coached by Pat Quinn and Dick Ballard, the Highlanders won every level of competition — league, city, sectional, district, regional, and state — before dedicating their title to retiring principal Willard Sweeder.

The roster was filled with standout performers, including All-City honorees Steve Oliverio, Mark Gerdsen, Bud Cox, and Dan Sehlhorst. Sehlhorst was named Cincinnati Post Player of the Year, while Oliverio and Hellman led a dominant pitching staff. Coach Quinn earned Greater Cincinnati Coach of the Year honors.

This championship squad set the standard for Oak Hills athletics, achieving what no Highlander team had done before: bringing home a state title.

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Amanda Keehan Birdwell

Induction

2023

Sports

Volleyball, Basketball

Graduation

2008

Amanda is a 2008 graduate of Oak Hills and was a standout two-sport athlete in volleyball and basketball.  Amanda was a three-year varsity volleyball letter winner.  In 2007, she was 1st-Team All-GMC and 3rd-Team District 16, leading the GMC in Blocks, while being named the team’s MVP.   She helped lead her team to the 2007 GMC League Championship.

On the court, she was a 4-year varsity basketball letter winner and 3-Time District Champion (06, 07, 08).  In 2007, she also helped lead her team to a GMC championship.  She was the recipient of the Sandy Pharrell Award and an All-Academic GMC performer.  During her senior year, she was 1st-Team All-GMC, District 16 2nd-team, All-City 1st-Team, an Ohio vs. Kentucky All-Star, OGBR Top 25, and a McDonald’s All-American nominee.

Upon graduation, she attended West Virginia on a basketball scholarship where she earned a degree BA in Psychology.  Amanda is currently a Sergeant for the Cincinnati Police Department & resides in Cleves, OH with her Husband Tyler (Green Township Officer), and 3 boys Lane 4, Eli 2, & Beau 4 months old.

Amanda Keehan Birdwell

MEET

2008

Meet

Andy Lonneman

Induction

2007

Sports

Men's Soccer

Graduation

1986

Andy Lonneman is a 1986 graduate and a three year letter winner on the Oak Hills soccer team. Andy was awarded first team all-league honors three consecutive years. In 1985 he was named conference Player of the Year and the Ohio South Player of the Year. As a part of the Highlander soccer program, Andy led the team to three conference championships. He was named first team all-city and became the first Oak Hills male soccer player to be twice named All State. In 1985 Andy was awarded the National Soccer Coaches Association of America 1st team All Mid-West and became Oak Hills first soccer Parade Magazine All American. Andy went on to play soccer at the University of Akron. He was a member of the 1986 NCAA Division I National Runner up Akron Zips. 

Andy Lonneman

MEET

1986

Meet

Ashley Ruberg King

Induction

2019

Sports

Women's Swim & Dive, Cross Country, Track & Field

Graduation

2002

Ashley Ruberg is a 2002 graduate of Oak Hills and was standout three sport athlete.  She was a 4-year varsity letter winner in Swimming, Cross Country, and Track and Field, as well as a soccer player for two years.  As a Cross Country athlete, she was the first Oak Hills female to break the 19 minute in a 3.1 mile race and currently sits 3rd on the all-time record board.  Ashley also placed 5th at the All-American Junior Olympics Cross Country Championships. Following High School, Ashley ran  4 years of Cross Country and Track for University of Louisville where she was team Captain for three of those years. She has a top 10 time on Louisville’s leaderboard in the 5k, 10k, and Steeplechase and was a member of National Honor Society of Collegiate Athletes.  Ashley still runs competitively and has posted a 2:54 Marathon time, qualified for the Boston Marathon, and runs Ultra-Marathons. She won her first 50 miler with a time of 6:56:29. Ashley was also an assistant Cross Country coach for seven years at Oak Hills.  

Ashley Ruberg King

MEET

2002

Meet

Barb Northcutt

Induction

2006

Sports

Graduation

Barb Northcutt

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Meet

Bill Fisher

Induction

2013

Sports

Graduation

The Oak Hills Meritorious Service Award is a special recognition given to an outstanding supporter and volunteer within the Oak Hills Athletic program. The 2013 recipient is Bill Fisher. Bill's love for Oak Hills and involvement with the athletic department started in 1976 when Donn Coates ask him to film the football games for the coaches to review on Saturday mornings. Since 1976, he has been involved as a volunteer, parent and grandparent within Oak Hills Athletics. Bill has been the boys' basketball official scorekeeper for Oak Hills coaches Steve Moore, Hep Cronin and Mike Price. Bill has had the honor to serve as Booster President in 1978-1979. He chaired the Football Turf Committee that raised one million dollars in 2007 and was a member of the committee to build the new fitness center in 2009. 

Bill Fisher

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Bill Wegman

Induction

2004

Sports

Men's Basketball, Baseball

Graduation

1981

Bill Wegman was part of the Oak Hills graduating class of 1981, and participated for the Varsity Basketball and Baseball teams during his tenure at Oak Hills High School. Wegman was a 2 year starter on the Varsity Basketball team and 3 year starter on the Varsity Baseball team. He played a pivotal part in both the 1980 State Championship Baseball team and the 1981 State Runner-Up Baseball team. Wegman played 14 years in the MLB, and spent 11 of those years on the major league roster of the Milwaukee Brewers. Then, in 1991, the MLB awarded him the Fred Hutchinson Award, which is also known as the Comeback Player of the Year award. That year he rebounded from injury, posting a 15-7 record and an ERA of 2.84.

Bill Wegman

MEET

1981

Meet

Bob Kaiser

Induction

2008

Sports

Men's Baseball, Basketball

Graduation

Bob Kaiser attended Oak Hills from 1964 - 1967. He was a member of the baseball and basketball team. While at Oak Hills Bob was an all-conference, all-city and all district performers in both sports. He played at Oak Hills for Hall of Fame Coach Steve Moore. In 1968 Bob was a third round draft pick of the Cleveland Indians. Bob played professionally for the Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers and Pittsburgh Pirate organizations. The highlight of his career was in 1972 when he beat the Cincinnati Reds while pitching for the Indians. After his professional baseball career, Bob went on to coach in college, high school and many youth teams. 

Bob Kaiser

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Bob Leytze

Induction

2009

Sports

Men's Tennis, Soccer, Basketball

Graduation

1982

Bob is a 1982 graduate. Bob was a true "all around" athlete who enjoyed playing many sports. His first year at Oak Hills High School he was selected as "athlete of the year" by the school paper and faculty after playing varsity soccer, JV basketball, and following in his older brother Joe's footsteps played #1 singles in tennis. The following year Bob was a member of the only OHHS soccer team to date to play in a State Championship, played basketball in the winter and held the #1 singles position in tennis in the spring. By his senior year Bob was recognized as one of the best soccer players in the state. He was two time All Conference, two time All City, one time All State and Oak Hills first soccer player ever selected All Midwest. He was twice named to the Ohio Olympic Development team where he played for his former coach and mentor Paul Rockwood. Heavily recruited - Bob's goal was to play Division I college soccer. Attending Indiana University, he was part of a soccer powerhouse that won back-to-back NCAA Division I National Championships in '82 and '83. After college he played semi-professional soccer in Florida for the Saint Petersburg Kickers and later moved to Seattle to play for the Seattle Storm of the Pacific Coast Soccer League now part of the USISL. Bob has since gone on to become a nationally licensed soccer coach and trainer working with several Premiere youth soccer clubs in the Seattle area including the Seattle Sounders youth development program. He has been instrumental in helping scores of players get into college programs all around the country. 

Bob Leytze

MEET

1982

Meet

Bob Sears

Induction

2005

Sports

Graduation

MEET

Meet

Bob Siekmann

Induction

2006

Sports

Men's Basketball, Baseball

Graduation

1969

Bob Siekmann

MEET

1969

Meet

Brett Wettrich

Induction

2006

Sports

Men's Golf

Graduation

1992

Brett Wettrich is a 1992 graduate and a four year letter winner on the Oak Hills golf team. As a freshman he led Oak Hills to a regional appearance with his team leading 38.7 average. His sophomore year Brett finished eighth in the state tournament and was named second team all-state. As a senior he was a state qualifier and named the 1991 Cincinnati Enquirer Golfer of the Year. Brett was a four time first team all-conference winner and three time first team all-city award winner. After graduating from Oak Hills Brett went on to play on the Nationwide Tour for two years; while on the Nationwide Tour he won two events and finished 10th on the money list. For the past 5 years Brett has competed on the PGA tour. His best finish to date was in 2005 when he finished 6th at the Honda Classic. He is ranked as the 3rd longest driver on the tour at 311.7 yards per drive. 

Brett Wettrich

MEET

1992

Meet

Brooklyne Ridder

Induction

2016

Sports

Women's Cross Country, Track & Field, Golf

Graduation

2009

Brooklyne Ridder was a graduate of Oak Hills in the class of 2009. She was a 3 sport Varsity Athlete, competing in Cross Country and Track all 4 years, while also participating on the Varsity Women's Golf team for 2 years. She had won multiple awards during his racing career, including winning Runner of the Year from both the Cincinnati Enquirer and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Women's Sport Association. She was a 2 time District Champion in Cross Country, and placed at the State level all 4 years, winning 2 State Titles. She was a 3 time GMC Champion and Runner of the Year, and 4 time All-State in Cross Country. As a Track and Field competitor, she was an 8 time GMC Champion in Track Events, an 4 time All-State for Track as well. She currently still olds Oak Hills High School records for the 1600m and 3200m run. After high school, Ridder went on to compete for the Penn State Cross Country and Track teams. 

Brooklyne Ridder

MEET

2009

Meet

Buddy LaRosa

Induction

2004

Sports

Graduation

Since starting his first LaRosa's pizzeria in 1954 in Westwood, Buddy LaRosa has been an icon of the Greater Cincinnati community. His philanthropic support of schools and high school sports is legendary and with his creation of the LaRosa's High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1975, and the LaRosa's MVP award in 2005, he has showcased and celebrated the rich athletic heritage of our area for all to enjoy.  For his meritorious contributions to Oak Hills and all of Greater Cincinnati, Buddy has been included in our inaugural class of the OH Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004.

Buddy LaRosa

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Carolynn McHugh Heyl

Induction

2025

Sports

Women's Swim & Dive

Graduation

2001

Carolynn McHugh Heyl, a 2001 graduate of Oak Hills High School, is one of the most accomplished swimmers in school history. A four-year varsity letter winner and team captain her senior year, Carolynn earned two Ohio State Championships in 2001 — individually in the 50-yard freestyle and as part of the 200-yard medley relay team. Over her high school career, she became a 16-time state placer, including seven top-three finishes at the Ohio State Championship meet in Canton.

As of 2025, she continues to hold Oak Hills’ records in the 50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle, and 200-yard freestyle relay. Beyond high school, Carolynn also competed with the Gamble Nippert YMCA Gators, achieving multiple first-place finishes and helping the women’s team capture the 2001 YMCA Long Course National Championship.

At the University of South Carolina, where she earned a swimming scholarship, Carolynn built on her success. She became a school record holder in the 200-yard freestyle relay, 400-yard freestyle relay, and 200-yard medley relay, while also ranking among the program’s all-time best in the 100-yard freestyle. In 2004, she anchored the 200-yard freestyle relay team that placed 3rd at the SEC Championships and 5th at the NCAA Championships, setting school records that stood for more than 15 years. That same year, she was a three-time All-American. Carolynn was also named an Academic All-American in her sophomore, junior, and senior years.

After graduating with a degree in business, Carolynn pursued a career in healthcare and is now a registered nurse with The Urology Group. She resides in Green Township with her husband, Mark, and their three daughters — Adeline, Alayna, and Audrey — all students at J.F. Dulles. A proud Highlander, she is remembered not only as a record-setting swimmer, but also as a multi-sport athlete who represented Oak Hills in both swimming and soccer.

Carolynn McHugh Heyl

MEET

2001

Meet

Chuck Ausman

Induction

2010

Sports

Graduation

Chuck Ausman was the varsity soccer coach at Oak Hills for thirty years, twenty-eight as head coach. His career record is 237-195-70. He was a six time conference coach of the year, a Cincinnati Enquirer Coach of the Year, Southwest District Coach of the year and is one of four Oak Hills High School coaches to be a state coach of the year. Coach Ausman has been awarded the state sportsmanship award and in 2000 he was inducted into the Ohio High School Coaches Hall of Fame. Among those former student athletes are one hundred-fifty five all conference players, sixty-one all city players, nine all state players, three national players, three professional players and eighty-five collegiate players. 

Chuck Ausman

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Chuck Laumann

Induction

2009

Sports

Men's Soccer, Baseball

Graduation

1981

Chuck is a 1981 graduate of Oak Hills. Chuck was a three year varsity starter in both soccer and baseball. He was the epitome of what it means to be a "student athlete" as he was named to the All Ohio Academic All State teams in both sports his senior year. On the playing field, his soccer career includes such accomplishments an all-conference, all city and allstate player. In 1980, as a senior, he was captain on the State Runner Up team. He was also named by The Cincinnati Enquirer 1980 Player of the Year in the City of Cincinnati. His baseball career also includes such accomplishments as being named all-conference and all state. He was part of three League Championship teams, two City Championship Teams, two Regional Championship Teams, one State Championship Team and one State Runner-Up Team. As well as being named captain his senior year. Chuck graduated from Ball State University, where he was also been awarded a baseball scholarship. While at Ball State was named to the All MidAmerican Conference Team and again was a two time all MAC All Academic and a two time All American All Academic award winner. In 1991, Chuck jumped at the opportunity to come back to his high school alma mater as a math teacher and continue coaching. His coaching career at Oak Hills High School, includes eight-teen years as head varsity girls' soccer coach, fifteen years head varsity baseball coach, teen years head freshman boys' basketball coach, four years head JV girls' basketball coach, one year head boys' freshman soccer coach, and one year assistant baseball coach (1990). He's accomplished many awards throughout his coaching career including, Conference Championship Teams in Girls Soccer and Conference, District and City Championship Teams in Baseball. He has been named City Coach of the year in both baseball and Girls Soccer. He has also been named State Coach of the Year for baseball. He guided the Oak Hills baseball team to #1 ranking in the State of Ohio. Many of his former soccer and baseball players have gone on to play their respected sport in college.

Chuck Laumann

MEET

1981

Meet

Chuck Walroth

Induction

2015

Sports

Men's Baseball, Basketball, Football

Graduation

1968

Chuck was a member of the class of 1968, and was a varsity athlete in Baseball, Basketball, and Football. From 1967-1968, he was All-League and All-City in all three sports, which included leading Oak Hills to league titles in Baseball and Basketball. He was the leading scorer for the Oak Hills Football team, as well as led the city in his senior year in scoring. Chuck also led the Oak Hills Baseball team with a .330 batting average, and was 7-0 in starts during his senior year. He accepted a full athletic scholarship to Eastern Kentucky University, where he was awarded Newcomer of the Year before suffering a career ending knee injury in his final game against University of Kentucky. 

Chuck Walroth

MEET

1968

Meet

Cynthia Janssen Lewis

Induction

2011

Sports

Women's Swim & Dive

Graduation

1993

Cynthia Janssen Lewis graduate in 1993 and was a four time varsity letter winner for the Oak Hills Swim Team. To date, she is one of the most decorated student athletes in Oak Hills history. Over her four year career at Oak Hills her accomplishments include a six sectional champion relays and two individual sectional championships, six district champion relays, and one individual district championship and 2nd district runner up championships. Also, she was a four state championship, including two state records and one national ranking, two state runner up finishes, and three state placing finishes. Cynthia was named a High School All American each of her four years of high school. These accomplishments earned Cynthia a full scholarship to Arizona State University. Cynthia was a part of the NCAA Division I championship in 1994 and 1995. After her college career ended she has gone on to continue her swimming by being a United States Master Swimming National Champion twenty-six times and a Masters Swimming National Record Holder. In the past four years Cynthia has been ranked in the Masters Swimming World Rankings nine times. In 2003 she won both the Los Angles Triathlon and the Great Clermont Triathlon. 

Cynthia Janssen Lewis

MEET

1993

Meet

Danielle Dietrich Dabbs

Induction

2012

Sports

Women's Basketball, Soccer

Graduation

2002

Danielle Dietrich Dabbs is a 2002 Oak Hills graduate. As a senior Danielle was named first team all-state in two sports, basketball and soccer. In basketball, Danielle led the team to the first Oak Hills GMC title in 2000. She was named first team all-conference three straight years, first team all-city for two years and was a part of the first Oak Hills girls' basketball city title team in 2002. As a part of the soccer team, Danielle still holds the single season scoring record. She was a four year letter winner. Danielle was named all-conference, all city and all state for her efforts. After Oak Hills, Danielle was awarded a soccer scholarship to the Ohio State University. While at OSU, she was a member of the Big Ten Tournament Champion team and named to the All-Big Ten All Freshman Team. She was a three year winner of the All-Big Ten Academic Award and a Big 10 Medal of Honor Finalist 

Danielle Dietrich Dabbs

MEET

2002

Meet

Dave Burke

Induction

2012

Sports

Men's Football

Graduation

1990

Dave Burke is a 1990 Oak Hills graduate. Dave has been called one of the best football players in the history of Oak Hills. He was a two year varsity letter winner and team captain. Dave was an important part of the 1988 Metro County Conference League Champion team. In his senior season Dave was named first team all-conference, first team all-southwest district and first team all-state. After his career at Oak Hills ended Dave continued his playing days at Thomas More College. To date Dave still holds the school record for most tackles in a single game at 28 vs. Earlham College. 

Dave Burke

MEET

1990

Meet

David Soult

Induction

2016

Sports

Men's Football, Basketball, Baseball

Graduation

1989

David Soult, class of 1989, was a 3 sport Varsity Athlete, competing for the Varsity Football, Basketball and Baseball teams. As a football player, he earned 3 Varsity Letters, and earned multiple awards, including 2nd Team All-League his Junior year and 1st Team All-League and 2nd Team All-City his Senior year. He still holds multiple football records at Oak Hills, including Touchdowns for a career (35) and tied for 1st in Touchdowns in a single season (23). As a member of the Varsity Baseball Team, Soult earned 3 Varsity Letters and earned many awards during his playing career at Oak Hills. He earned 1st Team All-League all 3 years he was a member of the Varsity team, and 1st Team All-City his Junior and Senior Seasons. After high school, he accepted a Baseball Scholarship to the University of Kansas. 

David Soult

MEET

1989

Meet

Dick Roche

Induction

2007

Sports

Graduation

Dick Roche was the wrestling coach at Oak Hills High School from 1974 - 2000. During those years he led the Highlanders to twenty-three team conference championships and one-hundred-seventy individual conference champions. Oak Hills Wrestling won the city championship in 1976, 1977 and 1982 under Coach Roche. Oak Hills had twenty-six All State Placers during Coach Roche's tenure. He was named League Coach of Year twenty-three times, SW Ohio Wrestling Coach of the Year three times, Cincinnati Enquirer and Cincinnati Post Coach of the Year and in 1984 he was named The State of Ohio Division I Coach of the Year. Coach Roche has also been inducted into the SW Ohio Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Ohio High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He has served as a wrestling official for thirty-five years while teaching Fitness Education at Oak Hills High School. 

Coach Roche is posthumously inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as an Ohio Chapter Honoree Class of 2024 on October 13th! Coach Roche's family will receive the Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award for him which honors and recognizes people for their years of commitment as positive role models to student-athletes. It is an acknowledgement of the years of dedication the honorees have given to wrestling as a coach, official, or contributor. The honorees will be permanently recognized at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater, OK. 

Dick Roche

MEET

Meet

Donn Coates

Induction

2011

Sports

Graduation

Donn Coates was a part of the beginning of Oak Hills Athletics. After graduating from Wilmington College and serving as the Dean of Men, teacher and head baseball coach at Wilmington College Donn came to a brand new Oak Hills High School in 1959. He served as a teacher and a coach for eight years including Head Baseball Coach from 1966 - 1972, Head Basketball Coach from 1959-1961, Assistant Track Coach from 1959-1961 and Assistant Football Coach from 1961-1965. In 1966, Donn became the athletic director at Oak Hills High School. He served the student athletes and coaches as athletic director of the District until his retirement in 1985. Donn was selected as Athletic Director of the Year for the Southwest District in 1980. During his twenty year stint as Oak Hills Athletic Director, Oak Hills was awarded the prestigious "Enky Award" nineteen times. This award is given annually to the school in each conference which wins the most championships. 

Donn Coates

MEET

Meet

Don Ruehl

Induction

2012

Sports

Men's Basketball, Soccer

Graduation

1984

Don Ruehl from the Class of 1984, and is one of the best basketball players in Oak Hills High School history. Don has been described as the ultimate teammate and leader by former coaches and players. He was a two sport athlete at Oak Hills - playing both soccer and basketball. As a member of the soccer team, Don was awarded all leagues as a senior in 1984. Don led the basketball program to a city title in 1984. The team finished the year ranked number four in the state as league, sectional and district champions. Individually, Don was named all-conference, all city and all state for his efforts. After high school, Don was awarded a basketball scholarship to the University of Cincinnati where he played for four years. 

Don Ruehl

MEET

1984

Meet

Doug Corn

Induction

1978

Sports

Men's Tennis

Graduation

2021

Doug Corn is a 1978 graduate of Oak Hills High School.  During his high school years, Doug was one of the top high school tennis players not only in Cincinnati but in the state of Ohio.  He finished fifth place at state during his sophomore year and third place his junior year.  During his senior season, his record was an outstanding 24-2, where he captured the Sectional and District tournament titles and was the State runner-up, where he lost the title in heartbreaking fashion on the last point of the match (7-6,3-6, 6-7, 5-4 in the 9-point tiebreaker).  Doug is the only men’s tennis player in the history of OHHS to play in the State Singles Finals.   He was ranked the #1 high school singles player in Greater Cincinnati in 1977 and 1978.  

After high school,  Doug attended the University of Tennessee where he was 4-Year letterman & captain his junior and senior years.  He was an SEC champion in singles and doubles.  In 1981, Doug was the USTA National Amateur Doubles Champion, winning a coveted Gold Ball.

After college, Doug played on the Professional Tennis Tour before coaching his college teammate, Mike DePalmer Jr., who ranked 30th in the world.

Doug has been named one of Cincinnati’s all-time Top 100 Players and was enshrined into the Greater Cincinnati Hall of Fame in 2016.

Doug Corn

MEET

2021

Meet

Dr. David Brent Argo, MD

Induction

2025

Sports

Graduation

Dr. David Brent Argo, MD

Dr. David Brent Argo is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist whose career has been defined by excellence in patient care and a deep commitment to athletics in the Cincinnati community. A graduate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine in 1998, Dr. Argo has spent more than 27 years providing advanced orthopaedic and sports medicine care to athletes of all ages and levels of competition.

Affiliated with leading regional hospitals including Dearborn County Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital, Dr. Argo is licensed in Sports Medicine in Ohio and has built his reputation as a physician who blends medical expertise with a passion for athletics. His training encompasses every aspect of sports medicine—from injury prevention, field evaluation, and rehabilitation, to biomechanics, conditioning, nutrition, and performance optimization.

For Oak Hills Athletics, Dr. Argo has been a trusted partner in keeping Highlander student-athletes healthy, safe, and able to compete at their highest level. Whether on the sidelines, in the training room, or in the operating room, his guidance and care have ensured that countless Oak Hills athletes have been able to recover from injuries, return to play, and excel both on and off the field.

Dr. Argo’s lifelong dedication to sports medicine, his leadership in the medical field, and his unwavering support of the Oak Hills athletic community make him a most deserving recipient of Meritorious Hall of Fame honors.

Dr. David Brent Argo

MEET

Meet

Elizabeth Brunsman Murphy

Induction

2010

Sports

Women's Tennis

Graduation

2000

Elizabeth Brunsman Murphy is in the graduating class of 2000, graduated as a tennis standout at Oak Hills, Elizabeth holds the all-time career singles record with sixty-two wins and twelve losses. She was the first female tennis player at Oak Hills to play all four years as the number one singles player, being named team MVP each of those four years. During her junior and senior year, Elizabeth was the conference champion, sectional champion and was a two time state qualifier. She maintained a top ten city ranking during her entire four year athletic career as well as a USTA Midwest and Ohio Valley Ranking. After graduating from Oak Hills, Elizabeth continued her tennis career at Northern Kentucky University on an athletic scholarship. She was a four time Great Lakes Valley All Conference First Team performer, two time team captain, and four time NKU All-Academic Team honoree. In 2002 and 2003, Elizabeth advanced to the NCAA Division II Women's Tennis Championship. Not surprising, in 2003 she was voted by the GLVC Coaches as the "Player they were happiest to see graduate"! As the final award to her college career Elizabeth earned NKU's prestigious Career Achievement Award based on academic excellence, athletic ability and achievement, character and leadership. 

Elizabeth Brunsman Murphy

MEET

2000

Meet

Frank Shaut

Induction

2009

Sports

Graduation

Coach Shaut was the wrestling coach at Oak Hills High School from 1965 - 1974. Prior to coaching at Oak Hills, Frank was a high school state wrestling champion in his home state of New York. He was awarded a football scholarship to attend the University of Cincinnati. Not only did Coach Shaut play football at UC, he was also a member of the wrestling team - posting a 58-3 record. He is a member of the University of Cincinnati Athletic Hall of Fame. After college, Coach Shaut came to Oak Hills as a teacher and coach. During his nine year coaching career he won six league championships, four district championships and four city championships. His career was highlighted in 1974 when the team placed 3rd in the state and Oak Hills crowned an individual state champion. Frank has been named State of Ohio Coach of the Year and is a member of the both the State of Ohio Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Southwest District Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame 

Frank Shaut

MEET

Meet

Fred Meier

Induction

2023

Sports

Graduation

Fred Meier was the head baseball coach at Oak Hills High School from 1982 to 1993. Coach Meier is a 1965 graduate of Western Hills High School in Cincinnati. He graduated from Ohio University in 1969 and received his Master’s Degree from Xavier University in 1972. As a player At Western Hills he played for OHSBCA Hall of Fame member Dick Hauck, and participated in the 1965 State All-Star game, which is now the Mizuno All-Ohio Series. At OU, he played for the legendary coach, Bob Wren, who greatly influenced Meier toward a career in coaching. His first coaching job was at Colerain High School as an assistant in baseball, wrestling, and football. In 1972 he became the first head baseball coach at the new Northwest High School. After eight seasons at Northwest, Meier moved to Oak Hills where he coached for fourteen seasons.

In his twenty-two years as head coach, his teams won fourteen Hamilton County League Championships and he accumulated a won-lost record of 357-150. Coach Meier's most rewarding experience was seeing over fifty of his players go on to play college baseball, with two making it to the major leagues. Many of his former players have gone on to coach at the high school level with several becoming head coaches.

Coach Meier has accumulated many Coach of the Year awards, He has conducted many camps and has spoken at numerous clinics. He has served as the Southwest District Representative to the OHSBA for twelve years. He is a Past President of the Cincinnati Baseball Coaches Association. In 2000, he was inducted into the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.  

During his time at Oak Hills he also served as Assistant Football Coach.  

Fred's wife, Carol, and sons, Brian and Mark, have contributed much to his coaching career. Carol served as scorekeeper and both sons played for their dad at Oak Hills.

Fred Meier

MEET

Meet

Fred Rayhle

Induction

2004

Sports

Men's Football, Basketball, Track

Graduation

1972

Fred Rayhle was an Oak Hills graduate of the class of 1972, and played Varsity Football, Basketball, and Track during his time at Oak Hills. Rayhle was a 3 year Varsity Football and Basketball letterman, and a 2 year Varsity letterman Track athlete. Rayhle was a key component of the 1971 City Championship Basketball Team, and participated in the East-West All-Star Game for Basketball. Rayhle attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga after his time at Oak Hills on a Football Scholarship, where he was selected to the All-Time University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Football Team over the first 50 years of the sport, and after college he went on to play in the National Football League with the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks.

Fred Rayhle

MEET

1972

Meet

Grant Griesser

Induction

2010

Sports

Men's Baseball, Football, Basketball

Graduation

1985

Grant Griesser is 1985 graduate; Grant was a three sport standout for the Highlanders. As a member of the football team he earned all-league honors during his junior and senior seasons. On the basketball court he was a member of the 1984 squad that posted a perfect 20-0 record on their way to a conference and city championship. His senior basketball season, Grant lead to the team to a conference and district championship. While his success in football and basketball are impressive, his love and passion was baseball. During his two seasons as the starting catcher for Oak Hills, he led the team to two conference championships and a record of 49-3. During his senior season, Grant was named first team all-conference in three sports. His combined record in games started for Oak Hills is an amazing 92-24, including 116 starts. Grant was awarded a baseball scholarship to Miami University where he went on be a four year starting catcher and earn All Mid-American Conference honors for two years. Following his college career, Grant signed to play with the Kansas City Royals organization. He played minor league baseball for six years. After his playing days were complete, he went on to earn his undergraduate and master's degree. 

Grant Griesser

MEET

1985

Meet

Greg Strochinsky

Induction

2023

Sports

Men's Football

Graduation

1989

Greg Strochinsky was a 1989 graduate of Oak Hills High School. 

Greg’s sophomore year at Oak Hills started with playing JV Football for the Highlanders but it was wrestling that he excelled in starting several varsity matches throughout his sophomore year and earning his first varsity O under Coach Rob Von Allmen, Coach Dick Hauck and Legendary Varsity Coach Dick Roche. 

During Greg’s junior year, he saw more action earning a varsity O in Football but it was once again wrestling where he enjoyed the most success starting varsity the entire season and earning another varsity O. Greg’s junior season came to and end when his kneecap dislocated during the league finals after losing only one regular season match.

As a senior, Greg earned a varsity O in Football starting every game for the Highlanders and being named first team all league. Greg wrestled 160 his senior season as Team Captain and earned Championships at both the Coaches Holiday Classic and  St. X Invitational. He went on to become League Champ, District Champ and Sectional Champ before losing his first match all season during the State Semi-Finals before finishing 4th at state. Greg earned his final varsity O along with first team all league and all city honors. Finishing his Senior year with a 32-2 record earning him Team MVP and an Oak Hills record for most consecutive wins and Championships.   

Greg earned a full ride scholarship to Wright State University where he would start as a Freshman only to see his college career end due to a knee injury. He would transfer and graduate from UC with a degree in Economics. 

Greg married his high school sweetheart, Bridget Brogan and they have raised 3 beautiful kids who have all been Highlanders. To stay active Greg coached at the Jr High and youth levels both football and wrestling. He also began doing triathlons completing a full Ironman in Arizona and the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon in San Francisco. He is now enjoying retirement and golfing with friends and family.

Greg Strochinsky

MEET

1989

Meet

Hannah Hedrick

Induction

2021

Sports

Women's Basketball, Volleyball

Graduation

2008

Hannah Hedrick is a 2008 graduate of Oak Hills High School. During her time at Oak Hills she was a three year varsity member of both the basketball and volleyball teams. In 2006-2007 Hannah helped her basketball team to a GMC championship. In volleyball, she was named first-team GMC in both her junior and senior years. She was named the GMC Girl’s volleyball player of the year during her senior year. She was named 1st-Team All Southwest as well as Honorable Mention All-State during her 2007 volleyball season. 

Hannah went on to play volleyball after high school at Niagara University where she was twice named her university’s athlete of the year. She was 1st-team all MAAC in 2009, 2010, and 2011. She was the MAAC defensive player of the year in both her 2009 and 2011 seasons. She was also named the MAAC tournament Most Outstanding player in 2009 and 2010 helping lead her team to three straight NCAA tournament appearances.

Hannah Hedrick

MEET

2008

Meet

Hep Cronin

Induction

2008

Sports

Graduation

Hep Cronin was the head basketball coach at Oak Hills High School from 1981 - 1986. He led the Highlanders to an amazing 102-24 record in those six seasons. He coached 3 league championship teams, was a district champion. In 1983 Hep lead the Highlanders to an undefeated regular season. Eight of Coach Cronin's former players went on to play Division I corner and enjoys post season success. 

Hep C

MEET

Meet

Herbie Huesman

Induction

2025

Sports

Golf, Swim & Dive

Graduation

1996

Throughout his diving career at Oak Hills High School, Herbie Huesman didn’t just compete—he dominated. A two-sport standout in golf and swimming & diving, Huesman left his mark as one of the most decorated athletes in program history.

On the boards, he set school records in both the 6-dive and 11-dive events, achievements that cemented his place among the program’s elite. He was a model of consistency, finishing in the Top 4 at the Big East Championships for four consecutive years against the region’s strongest competition. At the state level, he shined even brighter—earning Top 5 finishes at the State Championships all four years, a rare and remarkable accomplishment. His dominance was further proven with four Sectional Championships, four District Championships, and two Southwest Diving Classic titles. He was twice the State Runner-Up, and as a junior, was named the 1994 Swimming & Diving Team MVP. Beyond the pool, Huesman excelled on the links as well, earning the 1993 Golf Player of the Year Award.

Following his Oak Hills career, Huesman continued his excellence at the University of Notre Dame, where he rewrote the record books. By the time he graduated in 2001, he held three of the four school diving records—a testament to his dominance at the collegiate level. His 6-dive, 1-meter record stood unmatched for years after his departure. He was recognized as a First Team All-Big East selection and the recipient of the prestigious Beller Hipp Award, honoring his athletic achievement and leadership.

Herbie Huesman’s legacy is more than numbers, titles, and records. His career reflects dedication, consistency, and the ability to rise to the moment. He not only set the standard during his time as a Highlander but also inspired future generations of athletes to aim higher. Today, he remains one of the most accomplished divers to emerge from Oak Hills, with success that carried beyond high school onto the national collegiate stage.

Huesman now resides in Lutz, Florida with his wife, Sophia, also a proud Oak Hills Class of 1996 alumna.

Herbie Huesman

MEET

1996

Meet

Jackie Cornelius Bedel

Induction

2012

Sports

Women's Basketball, Volleyball

Graduation

2001

Jackie Cornelius Bedel was a three sport varsity letter winner at Oak Hills, graduating in the Class of 2001. She was a three year varsity letter in winner in both basketball and volleyball. Jackie was a captain of the 2000-2001 GMC Champion and District Champion basketball team and was named first team all-league and first team all-city in her senior season. As a member of the Oak Hills softball team, Jackie was a four year varsity letter winner. In her season she was named all-conference, all city, all southwest district and honorable mention allstate. She continued her softball career on scholarship at Cleveland State University where she graduated from in 2005. During her collegiate career Jackie was named to the Horizon League 1st team in 2005 and well as to the Horizon All-Tournament Team. She was a three time Academic All-Conference Selection. Jackie continued her playing career after college by competing in the Vienna Wanders European Pro League and with the Michigan Ice in the US Women's Fast Pitch League. 

Jackie Cornelius Bedel

MEET

2001

Meet

Jack Ruthemeyer

Induction

2009

Sports

Graduation

"Grandpa Jack" as he was known was a longtime supporter of Oak Hills athletics. Jack is being awarded with the Oak Hills Meritorious Service Award for being a dedicated volunteer and always willing to take on whatever task was asked of him. Grandpa Jack's work can be seen throughout the school as he was an avid painter and loved the Highlanders. He and his wife Rosemary have served as ticket sellers, gate workers and tremendous supports of the athletic program. 

MEET

Meet

Jamie Birkofer

Induction

2023

Sports

Men's Baseball, Football

Graduation

1989

Jamie is a 1989 graduate and multi-sport student-athlete who competed in baseball and football.   In baseball, Jamie started as a pitcher and center fielder.  He was All-City Honorable Mention as an outfielder in 1987, 1988, and as a pitcher in 1989.  He was 1st-Team Metro Country Conference in 1988 and the Metro County Conference Player of the Year in 1989.  During his senior year, he was 1st-Team MCC as a pitcher posting a 7-1 record with a 1.85 ERA while batting 500 and earning 1st-Team All-City as an outfielder.  Jamie played in the East-West All-Star game in 1989 and won the American Legion World Series Championship in 1988.  After graduating, Jamie went on to play for Middle Tennessee State University.  He was Honorable Mention as a pitcher in the Ohio Valley Conference in 1992 and 2nd-Team All-Conference in 1993.  His teams at Middle Tennessee State University were regular season and tournament champions in 1990, 1991, 1992, and 1993.  

Jamie resides in Hebron, KY with his wife Kathy & daughters Kyra, & Leah.

Jamie Birkofer

MEET

1989

Meet

Janice McCafferty Wilking

Induction

2015

Sports

Women's Basketball, Softball

Graduation

1989

Jan was a major contributor to the Oak Hills Athletic Program, both as an Athlete and as an Administrator. She was a 1st team All-MCC Basketball player from 1987-1989, including being awarded league player of the year in 1989. She was also an Honorable Mention recipient from the State of Ohio in 1989 as well. She also was 1st team All-MCC in Softball, from 1987-1989, and received league player of the year in 1989 as well. She was the first freshman athlete that earned a varsity letter, and later became the first female athlete at Oak Hills to receive a full athletic scholarship. As an administrator and coach, Jan made major contributions to the Oak Hills Community. She was the Women’s basketball coach for 6 years, and compiled a record of 78-34, and received GMC Coach of the Year honors in 2001 and 2002. She also became the Athletic Director for Oak Hills, and held that position for 9 years. 

Janice McCafferty Wilking

MEET

1989

Meet

Jason Martin

Induction

2016

Sports

Men's Football, Basketball, Baseball

Graduation

1998

Jason Martin was a member of the Oak Hills Graduating Class of 1998, in which he played varsity Football, Basketball, and Baseball. He earned the Senior Athlete Award and the Archie Griffin Award for Leadership in 1998. Martin had sustained success for the Highlander Baseball team, being a starter on 2 league championship teams. He currently holds the 2nd place records for single season batting average (.519) and Career average (.456). His senior season, he was named to the Mizuno All-Ohio All Star Team, All-City 1st Team, and Conference Co-Player of the Year. That season, he led the team in Hits, RBI's, Triples, and HR's. 

Jason Martin

MEET

1998

Meet

Jeff Flynn

Induction

2014

Sports

Men's Basketball

Graduation

1985

Jeff Flynn, also known as “Fly”, played basketball at Oak Hills under coach Hep Cronin, from 1982-1985.  His senior year he led the Highlanders to a perfect 20-0 record and was selected 1st Team All City and 3rd Team All State.  Jeff went on to play for Tony Yates at the University of Cincinnati from 1985-1989.   Jeff currently works for the Armor Group as a project manager.  He and his wife Patricia have two children, Kevin and Kierstin.

Jeff Flynn

MEET

1985

Meet

Jeff Schroeder

Induction

2019

Sports

Men's Football, rack & Field

Graduation

2002

Jeff Schroeder was a 2002 graduate of Oak Hills who starred as a football player and track and field athlete.  During his high school career, Jeff left his mark on the Oak Hills record books. He was a part of the school record 4x100m team and still holds the school record for the 300m Hurdles and 110m High Hurdles.  In 2001, he was the GMC champion in the 300m Hurdles and the 110m High Hurdles, with a winning time that is still a GMC record. In addition, he still holds the GMC Hurdle record with a time of 14.0 seconds. In 2002, he defended his crown by winning both races again and was named the GMC Track and Field athlete of the year.  Jeff was district champion in the 110 High Hurdles, 300m Hurdles, and anchored the District winning 4x400m relay. Jeff finished 5th place at state in the High Hurdles in 2002, was named 1st team All-State and still holds the 20th fastest High Hurdle time in Cincinnati History. As a football player, Jeff was a 2 way starter on the only playoff team in school history.  He was a team Captain his Senior year as well as 2nd-Team All-GMC. In 2002, Jeff had 14 receptions in a game against Colerain.  Following High School, Jeff went on to play football for Miami University where he played 152 straight quarters spanning three seasons.  Jeff was nicknamed “the bulldog” by teammate Ben Roethlisberger for his tenacious play as a receiver. Jeff was an integral member of Miami’s success in the early 2000's, including their 2003 MAC championship and was awarded their “Tip of the Spear Leader” award.  

Jeff Schroeder

MEET

2002

Meet

Jeff Weddle

Induction

2007

Sports

Men's Basketball, Baseball

Graduation

1971

Jeff Weddle is a 1971 graduate who lettered in basketball and baseball. Jeff earned six varsity letters as a student athlete at Oak Hills High School. In basketball, he led Oak Hills to a 56-5 record over his three varsity seasons. During that time Oak Hills was three time league champion, and in 1971 they were City Champions. Jeff was named all-league and all city in basketball for two seasons. His senior season, while serving as one of the co-captains, Jeff led the Highlanders to an 18-0 regular season record. Jeff was the ultimate team player leading the team in assists. In 1971, Jeff represented Oak Hills in the first ever East -West All Star All City game. On the 1971 baseball team, Jeff had an earned run average of 0.26, and a batting average over three-hundred. His senior year, Jeff was awarded the Outstanding Senior Athlete Award. After his career at Oak Hills, Jeff went on to play basketball at Valparaiso University. 

Jeff Weddle

MEET

1971

Meet

Jennifer Irwin Hume

Induction

2011

Sports

Women's Golf

Graduation

2001

Jennifer Irwin Hume is a 2001 graduate. Jennifer ranks as one of the best golfers, male or female, to ever attend Oak Hills High School. She is a three year varsity letter winner- competing against boys for two seasons. As a junior, she was Captain of the girls' Varsity team and also earned 1st Team All GMC League and 1st Team All-City. She was crowned Sectional champion and District Runner-up on her way to finishing 26th overall at the State Championships. Her senior season, Jennifer was again Captain of the girls Varsity team, 1st Team All GMC League, and 1st Team All-City. She finished 10th overall at the State Championships. In her career at Oak Hills, Jennifer was medalist twenty-nine times. With these accomplishments she was awarded a golf scholarship to Northern Kentucky University. While at NKU, as a freshman, Jennifer won the NCAA Division II Longest Drive competition. In addition that same year, the team finished 3rd nationally. 

Jennifer Irwin Hume

MEET

2001

Meet

Jessica Pachko

Induction

2015

Sports

Women's Basketball

Graduation

2008

Jessica was a 4 year varsity basketball letterwinner while at Oak Hills, where she was All-GMC and All-City all 4 years. She received district player of the year in the 2006-2007 season, as well as Honorable Mention All-State in the 2005-2006 season. At the conclusion of her 4 year varsity stint, she concluded with back to back All-State nominations from 2006-2008, and ended as the Oak Hills career leader in points. She went on to accept an athletic scholarship to continue her playing career at the Marquette University, where she earned Big East All-Freshman Team Honors. She then transferred to Xavier University where she finished her playing career, where she earned Atlantic 10 All-Academic Team, and became a part of the Xavier 1000 point club. 

Jessica Pachko

MEET

2008

Meet

Jim Schnur

Induction

2005

Sports

Men's Football, Track

Graduation

1973

Jim Schnur is a 1973 graduate who excelled in varsity football and varsity track at Oak Hills. Jim Schnur became Oak Hills first individual state champion when he won the 440 yard dash his senior year. Schnur was a school record holder in ten different events while at Oak Hills. He received several All City and All State honors during his career in track and field. He received All City honors in football his senior year. In 1973, Jim was awarded the Cincinnati Enquirer "Male Athlete of the Year". Jim continued his Football and track career at the University of Cincinnati, where he was recently inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame. Upon graduation from UC, Schnur competed on the USA national team. His highest world ranking was 4th in the Decathlon. Jim ended his career at the 1984 Olympic trials. 

Jim Schnur

MEET

1973

Meet

Joe Dooley

Induction

2011

Sports

Men's Football, Track, Basketball

Graduation

1980

Joe Dooley is 1980 graduate and was a standout football, track and basketball student athlete at Oak Hills earning All-League honors in all three sports. As a member of the Oak Hills track team he was crowned League Champion in the shot put and discus in 1979 and in discus in 1980, qualifying for regionals both seasons. Joe is most widely known at Oak Hills as a dominant football player. As a senior Joe earned All-State honors and earned a full football scholarship to the Ohio State University. While a member of the Buckeyes football program, Joe was a three year letter winner. His senior season as the starting center, Joe lead the Buckeyes to a 9-3 record and a Fiesta Bowl Championship under head coach Earl Bruce. In 1984 Joe was the second Oak Hills Highlander to be drafted by the National Football League when he was taken by the Los Angeles Rams in the 10th round. 

Joe Dooley

MEET

1980

Meet

Joe Leytze

Induction

2013

Sports

Men's Tennis

Graduation

1979

Joe Leytze is 1979 graduate of Oak Hills High School. Joe is one of the best tennis players to ever compete at Oak Hills and the greater Cincinnati area. During his senior season his record was an amazing 30-1, including twelve straight post season victories. He was advanced to the state semifinals. For his efforts, Joe was named Oak Hills MVP and Cincinnati Enquirer Player of the Year in 1979. Joe attended the University of Kentucky where he went on to have an outstanding collegiate career. He was ranked as high as number twenty two in the nation and was twice named All SEC. During his senior season in 1983, he qualified for the Men's NCAA Division I tournament. In 1990 Joe was inducted into the University of Kentucky Tennis Hall of Fame. Following his college career, Joe played on the professional tennis tour for three years. In 1985 he played in a qualifying round for a spot at Wimbledon. He has also won the Cincinnati MET title twice. Recently, Joe was inducted into the Greater Cincinnati Tennis Hall of Fame. 

Joe Leytze

MEET

1979

Meet

Joe Rothwell

Induction

2010

Sports

Men's Baseball, Football, Basketball

Graduation

1975

Joe Rothwell is 1975 graduate, and was a three sport standout for the Highlanders. He was a three year varsity letter winner in football, helping the team to the 1974 league championship. He also lettered in basketball. His passion was baseball where he earned three varsity letters. During his baseball career at Oak Hills, Joe was named all-conference and all city three times. In 1974, he led the Highlanders to a baseball conference championship. While Joe was offered several football scholarships, he decided to accept a baseball scholarship to Southern Illinois University, a Perennial National contender in the mid to late 1970's. After his freshman season at SIU, Joe was selected in the 12th round of the Major League draft by the Kansas City Royals. In 1975 Joe was selected to the All-Rookie team while playing for the Sarasota Royals. After two seasons in the Royals organization he was traded to the Detroit Tigers where he played for an additional three seasons. While with the Detroit Tigers he was selected to the Appalachian League All Star Team in 1978. After his playing career was complete, Joe completed his college education at the University of Cincinnati under the Professional Baseball Scholarship Plan. 

Joe Rothwell

MEET

1975

Meet

John Maher

Induction

2019

Sports

Men's Wrestling, Track & Field, Football

Graduation

1972

John Maher played three varsity sports, graduating in 1972. He was one of the first in school history to qualify for the state tournament in wrestling. John earned a varsity letter three years in track. In football, he was voted MVP his senior year by his teammates. John credits his great coaches at Oak Hills for guiding him to set goals and continue his education. After attending Middle Tennessee State University on a football scholarship, John settled in the Nashville, Tennessee area and taught and coached for ten years before beginning his second career as a homebuilder/developer. John Maher Builders has built thousands of homes and has land holdings suitable for thousands more. John and his company have won numerous awards throughout the years. The Nashville Business Journal honored John as one of the twenty five people that most influences business in Williamson County. In 2017, John received the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce Community Partner Award which illustrates his commitment to and impact on the city in which he builds. In May of 2018, John received the Distinguished Alumni Award for Oak Hills High School. Since athletics and education played such a large role in John's life, he has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to support charities, school projects, and provide scholarships to worthy recipients. As a thank you to Oak Hills and in recognition of his most influential coaches (Wil Rutenschroer and Frank Shaut), John donated $100,000 for the original artificial turf for the Rutenschroer/Maher Field and $100,000 for a future wrestling room to honor Coach Shaut. John has been married to his college sweetheart, Margie, for 42 years and is proud of his four children, Beth, Jennifer, Kathleen, and Jack.

John Maher

MEET

1972

Meet

John Steele

Induction

2023

Sports

Men's Wrestling

Graduation

1974

John was a 1974 graduate of Oak Hills High School where he was a standout wrestler.  John had a fantastic feat of participating in the state wrestling tournament all four years of his high school career.  He was the Ohio High School District and State Champion in the 126lb weight class in 1974.  In that same year, he was a Scholastic Wrestling High School All-American, the Oak Hills MVP, and Moxy State Champion, as well as the Cincinnati Enquirer Wrestler of the Year To cap off the awards season, he was named Sports Illustrated Award of Merit winner.   In 1973, he was the UC Invitational Most Valuable Wrestler and awarded most pins.  He was also a Jr. Olympics National Champion in the 132lb weight class.  

 
 
 
 

MEET

1974

Meet

Jonathan Sweet

Induction

2009

Sports

Men's Baseball, Football

Graduation

1990

Jonathan Sweet was part of the 1990 graduating class of Oak HIlls. He was a 2 year varsity letterman in baseball and football. Sweet was named All-Conference and All-City for 2 season and was a part of a string of 8 consecutive league baseball championships. In his junior season, he was the catcher on the Oak Hills District Championship team, which finished the season as regional runner-up. That team was also the #1 ranked team in the state of Ohio and the only Oak Hills baseball team to be ranked in the USA top #25. Sweet was named team MVP during 1989.  

Jonathan Sweet

MEET

1990

Meet

Justin Ray

Induction

2019

Sports

Men's Football, Basketball

Graduation

2004

Justin Ray is a 2004 graduate and multi-sport student-athlete who competed in football and basketball.  In football, Justin broke 13 career, single season, and single game school records as a quarterback including attempts, completions, yardage and completion percentage.  From 2002-2003, he was a two-time All GMC quarterback and All GMC. He was also recognized as an All City punter and a two-time Team MVP. In the winter, Ray dominated the basketball court, earning all GMC honors twice, and first team All District and City. As a senior, Ray finished fourth in the conference in scoring and helped his team finish 7th in the City. Justin earned a scholarship to Christian Brothers University where he contributed to their first ever Season Championship, Conference Tourney Championship, and National Tourney birth. He went on to coach and find great success at Christian Brothers, Wright State, Mount St. Joseph and is the current head coach of Thomas More University. 

Justin Ray

MEET

2004

Meet

Justin Wilcox

Induction

2016

Sports

Men's Wrestling

Graduation

1998

Justin Wilcox is a 1998 graduate of Oak Hills High School who starred as a wrestler.  Beginning in 1995, Justin went to state four straight years, placing 5th in 1995, 5th in 1996, 2nd in 1997, and 3rd in 1998.  He is the only Oak Hills wrestler to place at state 4 straight years. He was a 4-time conference champion, 3-time District Champion, and recorded 134 career wins.  During his time at Oak Hills, he broke 15 school records, 10 of which still stand.  Following high school, he wrestled for Division 1 Edinboro University. During his freshman year, he was the 133-lb. conference champion and an NCAA qualifier.  Justin most recently competed in Mixed Martial Arts, posting 14 career victories.

Justin Wilcox

MEET

1998

Meet

Kathy Mahon Appiarius

Induction

2019

Sports

Women's Soccer, Basketball

Graduation

1987

Kathy is a 1987 graduate and was a multi-sport athlete competing in soccer and basketball. As a soccer player, Kathy earned First Team All Conference, All City and Honorable Mention All State in the 1986-’87 season. She played a pivotal role in taking down No. 1 Finneytown in the second round of the Division III girls high school sectional, recording 10 saves to record her sixth shutout of the season. As a basketball player, Kathy led the Highlanders to a historic State Runner-Up season in 1986.   During that season, Kathy received All Conference Honors and became a Metro County Conference All-Star. After Oak Hills, Kathy went on to play soccer for four years at Xavier University as a two-time team captain and helped lead the Musketeers to being ranked #20 in the NCAA. Today, she gives back to the Highlander Community as a teacher at Rapid Run Middle School. 

Kathy Mahon Appiarius

MEET

1987

Meet

Kathy Rembold Garry

Induction

2008

Sports

Womens Tennis, Basketball

Graduation

1985

Kathy Rembold Garry is a 1985 graduate of Oak Hills. During her career at Oak Hills she was a three year varsity letter winner in tennis and a three year varsity letter winner in basketball. On the basketball court, Kathy was named all-league and all-city. She was a two year team captain and led her team to two conference championships. As a tennis player, Kathy was a three time conference champion. She won the sectional and district titles both as a singles player and as a doubles player. As a junior, she was named first team all conference, all district and selected first team all-city by both the Cincinnati Enquirer and the Cincinnati Post. In her senior season, she again was named first team all-conference, all districts and all cities. Kathy is the only female tennis player in Oak Hills history to qualify for the state finals. After high school, Kathy graduated from Miami University. The Rembold family has a long history with Oak Hills. Kathy's grandfather, Gilmore Year out, helped name Oak Hills High School. Gilmore Year out is included in the prestigious Oak Hills Local School District Wall of Honor. 

Kathy Rembold Garry

MEET

1985

Meet

Ken Hauck

Induction

2012

Sports

Graduation

Ken Hauck

MEET

Meet

Kim Fritsch Morstadt

Induction

2013

Sports

Women's Swim & Dive

Graduation

1990

Kim Fritsch Morstadt is a 1990 Oak Hills graduate who was a standout swimmer for the Highlanders. She is a three time state qualifier finishing 2nd in the butterfly and the free relay and was crowned a state champion in the medley relay. Kim was a captain of the 1990 team that finished as Ohio State Runner Up. After her career at Oak Hills, Kim was awarded a swimming scholarship to Purdue University. While at Purdue she was a three time All American, two time Big Ten Champion and finished in 3rd place at the 1994 NCAA finals - the highest finish for any female swimmer in Purdue history. When she graduated from Purdue, Kim held eight school records. She has continued to stay involved in the sport of swimming, recently coaching the youngest Cincinnati Marlin swimmers for the past three years. She is also the Chair for the Ohio Swimming Outreach Program. The program provides competitive swimming opportunities to the underrepresented and economically disadvantaged youth in the state. 

Kim Fritsch Morstadt

MEET

1990

Meet

Kim Holmes Fawcett

Induction

2007

Sports

Women's Volleyball, Basketball, Softball

Graduation

1980

Kim Holmes Fawcett is a 1980 graduate who earned eight varsity letters in volleyball, basketball and softball. As a volleyball player, Kim was a two time all league and two time all city performers. During her tenure as a varsity volleyball player, Oak Hills was three time league champion and two time district champion. As a basketball standout Kim was voted first team all-league and first team all-city three times, Second Team All-State. Again in basketball, the Oak Hills team she was a part of won the league three times and the district championship. Kim continued her athletic career playing volleyball at Wright State where she was twice named team MVP and in 1983 was named All Region. She holds the Wright State Career record for career kills, kills in one season and career service aces. In 1994 Kim was inducted into the Wright State University "Hall of Fame". 

Kim Holmes Fawcett

MEET

1980

Meet

Kim Rhodenbaugh

Induction

2004

Sports

Women's Swim & Dive

Graduation

1984

Kim Rhodenbaugh-Macklin was a class of 1984 graduate of Oak Hills High School, and a 3-year Varsity Swimmer. While at Oak Hills, she became one of the most decorated athletes in Oak Hill’s history. From 1982-1984, she was an Individual League Champion, received All-City Honors, and was District, Regional, and State Champion in the 100m Breaststroke and 200m Individual Medley. She also earned All-American Honors during the 1982-1984 seasons as well. Kim was a member of the 1984 Olympic Team and was recognized as the Wheaties Box Champion. She concluded her Highlander career as the State and National Record Holder for the 100m Breaststroke and 200m Individual Medley.

Kim Rhodenbaugh

MEET

1984

Meet

Larry Land

Induction

2010

Sports

Men's Basketball

Graduation

1990

Larry Land is 1990 graduate, and was also a standout basketball player for the Highlanders. He was a three time all conference performers and was named Conference Player of the Year in 1990. During his three year high school career, the Highlanders captured a District Championship and advanced to the elite eight in the State of Ohio. Because of his standout career at Oak Hills, Larry was awarded a full scholarship to the University of St. Francis. After four years at USF he finished as the career leader in 3-point field goals made and games played in school history. He was also in the top five for career 3-point percent, career scoring average, career FT's attempted and made and career scoring. In 2007, Larry was inducted into the University of St. Francis Athletic Hall of Fame, making him the first Oak Hills basketball player to be inducted into their collegiate Athletic Hall of Fame. 

Larry Land

MEET

1990

Meet

Lauren Stoffel

Induction

2023

Sports

Woen's Bowling

Graduation

2007

Lauren is a 2007 graduate of Oak Hills where she was a standout bowler. From 2004-2007, she was a 4-Time GMC 1st-team All-Conference performer and a 2-Time GMC Bowler of the Year (06, 07).  In 2007, she was named the Cincinnati Enquirer’s Player of the Year, as well as the Enquirer’s All-Star Team (06, 07).  At the District tournament in 2007, she had the highest 3-game series out of all qualifiers with a 722, which placed her with the highest series heading into the state championship.  She was a key member of the team, which helped the Highlanders to finish 6th at State in 2005 and State Runner-Up in 2006.  In 2007, she was the inaugural nominee for the High School Bowling Sportswoman of the Year by the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Women’s Sports Associations. 

Following graduation, she continued to bowl at a high level.  She was the Greater Cincinnati Women’s City All Events Champion (09,10), as well as the Singles champion in those years.  She is the current record holder for 3 events and has a highest-scratch 3-game series of 751.   She was the Ohio State Women’s All Events Champion in 2011, as well as the Ohio State Women’s Double Champion, with fellow Highlander Hall of Famer, Michelle (Ostrowski) Abner.  She was the Greater Cincinnati Women’s Singles and Doubles Champion in 2021 as well as the team scratch champion in 2022.  She is a member of the University of Pikeville Athletic Hall of Fame and a 2008 National Champion.

Lauren Stoffel

MEET

2007

Meet

Lori Loew Halldow

Induction

2006

Sports

Women's Soccer, Basketball, Softball

Graduation

1986

Lori Loew Halldow is a 1986 graduate who earned eight varsity letters in soccer, basketball and softball. As a basketball player, Lori was a two time all league performer. As a senior captain she was conference co-player of the year, second team all-city and played on the 1986 Oak Hills state final basketball team. In softball, Lori was a two time all league player. As a soccer standout Lori was the first two time female all state soccer player at Oak Hills. In soccer, Lori was also first team all-conference twice, conference player of the year as a senior and was all city and all district. She currently is third on the Oak Hills all-time career goals record book and second in goals for a single season. She still holds the Oak Hills record for most assists in one season. Lori continued her athletic career playing soccer at the University of Cincinnati where she set the current single season scoring record. While at UC, Lori was awarded the Adidas Scholar Athlete All American Award, NCAA All Region Award, the ISAA Women's Soccer Recognition Award (which names the top thirty senior players in the nation). As a senior student athlete, Lori was awarded the Helen Norman Smith Award for Most Outstanding All around Female Athlete at the University of Cincinnati. 

Lori Loew Halldow

MEET

1986

Meet

Marcia Popp

Induction

2004

Sports

Women's Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track

Graduation

1982

Marcia Popp was a 1982 graduate who was a standout performer for the Oak Hills Volleyball, Basketball, Softball and Track Teams. She accepted an athletic scholarship to Indiana University, where she played on the Hoosier Women’s Volleyball team from 1982-1986. During that time frame, she earned the Big Ten Player of the Week Honors, as well as the Indiana Scholastic Achievement Award during the 1984-1985 and 1985-1986 seasons. She also was selected to the Big Ten All-Academic Team for the 1985-1986 season as well. 

Marcia Popp

MEET

1982

Meet

Mark Bonfield

Induction

2021

Sports

Men's Football, Basketball

Graduation

1989

Mark Bonfield is a 1989 graduate of Oak Hills High School.  Mark was a two-year varsity starter for football, earning first team all-league and all-district honors, as well as honorable mention for All-Southwest Ohio.  Mark was also a three-year starter for basketball and second-team all conference.  

At the time of his graduation, Mark held 12 receiving records, many of which still stand.  Mark still holds records for most receiving yards in a season (1,167), most receiving yards in a game (333), most career receiving touchdowns (21), most receiving touchdowns in a season (18), and most receiving touchdowns in a single game (5).   His 10 catches, 333 yard performance is still the 5th best game in Ohio history!

Mark has two children, Tyler and Megan and resides in Cleves, Ohio with his wife Kristin.  He is a financial advisor at PNC. 

Mark Bonfield

MEET

1989

Meet

Mark Rhodenbaugh

Induction

2005

Sports

Men's Swim & Dive

Graduation

1982

Mark Rhodenbaugh is a former world class swimmer 1982 graduate, was a three time all league and two time all state performer. He was a two time state champion for the Oak Hills swim team. In 1982 he was name Cincinnati Enquirer Swimmer of the Year while setting state and national records in 100 backstroke and individual melody. Mark earned a full scholarship to Southern Methodist University. While at SMU, he was an NCAA national champion in 100 backstroke. He swam in the 1983 and 1985 World University Games, the 1986 US National team and finished his career with a gold medal at the 1987 World Games in Madrid. 

Mark Rhodenbaugh

MEET

1982

Meet

Mark Townsley

Induction

2021

Sports

Men's Wrestling

Graduation

1981

Mark Townsley is a 1981 graduate of Oak Hills High School.  Mark was a two year Varsity starter during his junior and senior year in wrestling.  During those two years, he was a two-time league champion, two-time sectional champion, two-time district champion and two-time state qualifier.  He finished 5th in the state his senior year.  Mark was selected first team All-City and was also awarded the Most Valuable Wrestler of the team both his junior and senior year.  His high school career wrestling record was 66-6.  

Upon graduation, Mark wrestled for the University of Cincinnati (1981-82) and then accepted a wrestling scholarship to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio (1982-85).  While at Miami, he was a three-time Mid-American Conference placer and a Division I National Qualifier.  Mark accumulated 104 career collegiate wins and was named captain of the team his senior season.   

Mark began his teaching/coaching career in Independence Kentucky at Simon Kenton High School in 1986-87.  He taught physical education and was head coach of the Varsity wrestling team.  His team won the state championship that year, which was the first team state title in school history.  The following school year Mark accepted a teaching position in Ohio at Carlisle High School where he coached wrestling and numerous other sports for over 16 years.  While coaching wrestling, he sent at least one wrestler to the state tournament in all 16 seasons as a coach.  He was named Greater Miami Valley Wrestling Coach of the year in 2001 and 2003.  In addition, he was inducted into the Miami Valley Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014.  In 2006, Mark took over as the Carlisle High School Athletic Director.  He served as AD from 2006-2017.   He was inducted into the Southwest Ohio Athletic Association Hall of fame in 2020.  

Mark currently resides in Miamisburg, Ohio with his wife, Dana.  They have one daughter (Jordan) who is currently in a doctorate program for physical therapy in Georgia.

Mark Townsley

MEET

1981

Meet

Melissa Beck Yeazell

Induction

2009

Sports

Women's Golf, Swim & Dive

Graduation

1997

Melissa Beck Yeazell is a 1997 graduate of Oak Hills. During her career at Oak Hills she was a three year varsity letter winner in golf and a four year varsity letter winner in swimming. In 1996 Oak Hills did not have a girl's golf team so Melissa played with the boys during the season and then competed with the girls in the state tournament. She was a three time All City golfer. Her high school career was highlighted in 1996 when she won regionals and went on to finish third at state. Later that year she was included in Sports Illustrated "Faces in the Crowd". To date, she is Oak Hills only female state participant. After high school, Melissa went on to play golf at Xavier University, earning team captain status her junior and senior year. During that time she was crowned four time Cincinnati Women's Public Links Champion and 2 time Greater Cincinnati Women's Amateur Invitational Champion. After her collegiate career, Melissa was awarded a PGA Apprentice Scholarship. Finally, in 2005 Melissa was named the Southern Ohio PGA Female Player of the Year. 

Melissa Beck Yeazell

MEET

1997

Meet

Michelle Ostrowski Abner

Induction

2021

Sports

Women's Bowling

Graduation

2007

Michelle Ostrowski Abner is a 2007 graduate of Oak Hills High School.  Michelle was a three-year varsity member of the girl’s bowling team as well as co-captain during her junior and senior years.  During her bowling career, she helped lead the Highlanders to three straight undefeated GMC regular seasons.  In fact, from 2005-2007, the Lady Highlanders only lost one regular season match.  Michelle was 2nd Team All-GMC as a sophomore and 1st Team All-GMC her junior and senior years.  In 2006 she finished 4th at the state bowling tournament, leading the Highlanders to the state runner-up trophy.  

 

She was an advocate for the Ohio High School Athletic Association to recognize bowling as a varsity level sport, which they later officially adopted during the 2007 season.  Her senior year, she was recognized as one of the top 50 girls’ bowling prospects by Bowlers Journal.  

She was selected as one of five girls in the nation to be a member of the Dexter/USBC High School All-American Team and one of fifteen girls in the nation to compete in the Denny’s High School All-American Championships.  

 

Michelle competed collegiately at the University of Pikeville, where they won the USBC Team Intercollegiate National title in 2007-2008 season.  At Pikeville, she was recognized by the USBC as an Academic All-American.  Michelle finished her academic career at the University of Cincinnati.  She will be the first bowler inducted into the Oak Hills High School Hall of Fame.

Michelle Ostrowski Abner

MEET

2007

Meet

Mike Kessler

Induction

2023

Sports

Men' Football, Baseball

Graduation

1989

Mike is a 1989 graduate & was a multi-sport athlete competing in football & baseball. He was a four-letter varsity letterman in both football & baseball. Mike capped off his senior year by earning 2nd-Team All Conference in both football & baseball. That Summer Mike was selected as the American Legion National Player of the year.  He hit .390 that Summer with a pitching record of 10-1.  Mike finished with an overall pitching record of 25-4 that year between high school & Summer ball.  As a member of the 1988 Budde Post American Legion Team, his squad 

went on to win the National Championship that year.  They were the first team to win the American Legion National Championship where all the players on the team came from the same high school, Oak Hills. 

After graduation Mike attended the University of Cincinnati.

Mike currently owns and operates Kessler's Pro Turf for 23 years serving The West Side of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Takes great pride in getting the fields and schools looking their best. Mike also helped coach youth football at St. Dominic for 6 years.

Mike resides in Harrison, OH with his wife Susie & two children Danny 11, and Lucy 7.

Mike Kessler

MEET

1989

Meet

Mike Weadick

Induction

2012

Sports

Men's Football, Wrestling, Track

Graduation

Mike Weadick lettered in football, wrestling, and track while a student athlete at Oak Hills. As a captain of the football team, Mike was a middle linebacker. He was a member of the 1976 conference championship team earning all-league status his senior year. In wrestling, Mike was a league, city and district champion in 1977. He qualified for the state finals his senior season finishing third overall. Mike went on to DePauw University on a football scholarship. 

Mike Weadick

MEET

Meet

Mike Wheeler

Induction

2021

Sports

Men's Baseball

Graduation

1996

Mike Wheeler graduated from Oak Hills High School in 1996 where he played Varsity Baseball for three years under Coach Chuck Laumann.  Playing excellent defense as a shortstop, Mike put up outstanding numbers at the plate in his three seasons on varsity.  After hitting five combined home runs in his sophomore and junior seasons, he exploded for ten home runs in his senior year, a record that still stands for a single season, while his 15 career home runs stands 4th most for a Highlander.  In addition to his ten home runs in his senior year, he hit .467 (11th all time), scored 40 runs (3rd all time), knocked in 46 runs (1st all time) and stole 21 bases (6th all time).  At the conclusion of his senior season, he was named Conference Player of the Year, Enquirer Division 1 Player of the Year, 1st Team All City and 1st Team All State.  

 

As a true five tool player, this production propelled Mike to become the highest drafted position player in school history when the Houston Astros drafted him in the 6th round of the 1996 Amateur Entry Draft.  He was set to attend to Eastern Kentucky University on a full scholarship until the Astros called.  He played three years of minor league baseball in the Astros organization until an arm injury prematurely ended his career.  As of 2021, Mike is just one of 15 Highlanders to be drafted and one of 16 to play professional baseball.  

 

Since his retirement in 1998, Mike has worked for Prestige A/V and Creative Services and currently serves as Director of A/V Services.  He and his wife, Angie, have been married for 12 years and are the parents to two boys, Charlie and Logan. 

Mike Wheeler

MEET

1996

Meet

Missy Johnson-Kontsis

Induction

2005

Sports

Women's Volleyball, Basketball, Softball

Graduation

1986

Missy Johnson-Kontsis is a 1986 graduate who participated in varsity volleyball, varsity basketball and varsity softball. As an Oak Hills athlete, Missy earned nine varsity letters, three each in basketball, volleyball and softball. As a basketball player, she was a two time all league performer. As a senior she was conference co-player of the year and played on the State Final team. In softball she was a three time all league performer and was a first team all-city selection as a senior. In volleyball, she was a three time all league player, conference player of the year as a senior and first team all-city and all state in her senior season. Missy continued her athletic career playing volleyball at Temple University where she earned academic All American status and was Atlantic 10 All Conference. 

Missy Johnson-Kontsis

MEET

1986

Meet

Pat Quinn

Induction

2014

Sports

Graduation

Pat Quinn

MEET

Meet

Richard Haucke

Induction

2011

Sports

Graduation

Dick Haucke is a long time Oak Hills teacher and athletic director. His athletic career began at a different neighborhood high school where he earned All-League, All City and All State basketball awards before attending the University of Cincinnati on full basketball scholarship. After graduation from the University of Cincinnati, Dick became part of the Oak Hills family when he accepted a teaching job. He was named Oak Hills Athletic Director in 1995 and served in that role until 2004. During that time he was an integral part of the construction of new gym, a new baseball field and a new soccer complex, including the entire Rapid Run Park area. Most impressively, after several years of changing conferences, Dick led the way for Oak Hills to become a member of the Greater Miami Conference in 1999. Mr.Haucke is also a member of the LaRosa High School Hall of Fame, the LaSalle High School Hall of Fame and the Greater Cincinnati Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Dick Hauke

MEET

Meet

Richard Loewenstine

Induction

2013

Sports

Men's Wrestling

Graduation

1969

Richard Loewenstine is a 1969 graduate of Oak Hills High School. During his career at Oak Hills he was a standout wrestler, including becoming Oak Hills first wrestling state qualifier in 1968. His overall high school record was an impressive 50-3 and included two league championships and a district championship. After his career at Oak Hills he was awarded a wrestling scholarship to Eastern Kentucky University where we was a four year team captain, NCAA Division I qualifier and earned the EKU Athlete of the Year Award. Richard went on to teach and coach at Deer Park High School for two years before returning to Oak Hills to teach and coach. He has been a wrestling official for more than thirty years, including earning a spot as the state championship match official. Richard has served the Ohio High School Athletic Association's wrestling community is many aspects and leadership positions.

Richard Loewenstine

MEET

1969

Meet

Ricky Cornelius

Induction

2023

Sports

Basketball, Football

Graduation

2004

Ricky is a 2004 graduate and was a multi-sport athlete competing in basketball and football.  He was a three-year varsity letterman in basketball, as well as captain in 2003, and recipient of the Mike Ensmigner and Dick Haucke Awards.  In football, Ricky was a 4-year varsity letterman and two-way starter from 2001-2003.  He is 2nd all-time in interceptions (9) on defense while posting a career average of 5.74 yards per carry.  He was 2nd-Team All-GMC in 2001 and 1st-Team All-GMC in 2002 and 2003. In 2002, he earned 2nd-Team All-District Honors, the Captain’s Award, and was named the team’s Offensive Back of the Year.  He capped off his senior season by earning 1st-Team All-District and 1st-Team All-City, as well as being named a finalist for the “That’s My Boy” award.  He was nominated to play in the East-West All-Star game and received the Barb Delconte Award.

After graduation, Ricky attended Morehead State University on a football scholarship.  He was a 4-year starter and earned the Freshman of the Year award during his 1st season.  He was named 1st-Team Pioneer League fullback and a 4-Time Academic Excellence Pioneer Football League award.

Rick has been at GE Aviation for 12 years as a Quality Engineer and is currently coaching youth football and basketball for Oak Hills youth programs.  Ricky resides in Bridgetown with his wife of 13 years & alumni Amanda & their two sons Elijah 10, and Maxson 8.

Ricky Cornelius

MEET

2004

Meet

Robert Yung

Induction

2013

Sports

Graduation

Robert Yung was the leader and face of Oak Hills running for more than thirty years. He has spent an amazing sixty seasons coaching varsity cross country and track. During his time at Oak Hills he led the Highlanders to twenty eight league championships, ten district championships and seventeen team state appearances. He was awarded "Coach of the Year" seven times. Robert was truly a pioneer of girls cross country in Hamilton County. Three years prior to the Ohio High School Athletic Association adopting girls' cross country Robert had girls on his squad competing across the State. Robert has been a track and cross country official for the Ohio High School Athletic Association for forty four years. 

Robert Yung

MEET

Meet

Ron Murphy

Induction

2015

Sports

Men's Baseball, Football

Graduation

1989

Ron was a 7 time varsity letter recipient, and 2 time JV letter recipient during his time at Oak Hills, playing both Baseball and Football. As a football player, he was earned 3 varsity letters, while leading the team in return yards and being a two-way starter at Running Back and Defensive Back, which allowed him to be named All-League for Football in 1988 and 1989. In Baseball, he earned 3 league titles (1987-1989), and was named All-League during that time frame as well. He set school records for Triples and Runs, and won both Sectionals and District during the 1989 season. Because of his successes, he was named Student Athlete of the Year in 1989, and accepted a Division 1 scholarship to Ball State University to continue his baseball career. 

Ron Murphy

MEET

1989

Meet

Scott Klingenbeck

Induction

2025

Sports

Baseball

Graduation

1989

Scott Klingenbeck, a 1989 graduate of Oak Hills High School, distinguished himself as one of the most accomplished pitchers in Ohio high school baseball history.

Early Athletic Success

As a sophomore at Elder High School, Klingenbeck earned varsity letters in basketball, soccer, and baseball—an early testament to his athletic versatility. On the diamond, he quickly emerged as a standout, earning All-City and All-State honors while finishing the season with a 10–1 record as a starting pitcher.

Oak Hills High School & National Recognition

Klingenbeck transferred to Oak Hills High School before his junior year, where he went on to dominate the mound. Across his junior and senior seasons, he compiled a perfect 22–0 record. In 1988, he led his American Legion team to a National Championship, earning “Player of the Game” honors in the title contest.

Before his senior year, Klingenbeck secured a full-ride scholarship to The Ohio State University—an uncommon achievement in baseball at that time. His senior season proved historic: he went 12–0, was named Gatorade National High School Baseball Player of the Year (1989), and was selected in the 40th round of the MLB Draft by the Detroit Tigers. He chose instead to honor his commitment to Ohio State. By graduation, he was a three-time All-State honoree.

Ohio State University Career

At Ohio State, Klingenbeck quickly cemented his legacy as one of the program’s greats. As a freshman, he finished with a 10–1 record, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year, First Team All-American, and All-Big Ten honors. He followed that with an 11–2 sophomore campaign, again garnering First Team All-American and All-Big Ten recognition.

His junior season brought mixed results statistically (7–7), but he etched his name into Buckeye history by throwing a no-hitter against LSU in the NCAA Regional Tournament. Following that season, Klingenbeck was selected 3rd overall in the 1992 MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles—foregoing his senior year.

Major League & International Career

Klingenbeck made his Major League debut in 1994 against the Detroit Tigers, the very team that had drafted him years earlier. The Orioles claimed victory in that matchup, 11–3.

In 1995, he was traded to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for former Cy Young Award winner Scott Erickson. Klingenbeck went on to play five seasons in Major League Baseball before extending his professional career with a season in Japan’s top league.

Team USA Experience

Klingenbeck also represented his country on the international stage. He pitched for the 1989 USA Junior Olympic Team, earning a gold medal, and later competed for Team USA in 1990, helping the squad reach the finals of the Pan-American Games before falling to Cuba.

Life After Baseball

After retiring from professional baseball, Klingenbeck turned to entrepreneurship, owning and operating Hot Wings from 2003–2013. He continued to give back to his community by coaching with the JB Yeager Organization, alongside longtime friends and colleagues Eric Keeton, Jim Robinson, and Fred [Last Name].

Legacy

From his undefeated high school dominance and national recognition, to starring at Ohio State and competing at the highest levels of baseball both domestically and internationally, Scott Klingenbeck’s career reflects talent, perseverance, and a lifelong dedication to the game.

Scott Klingenbeck

MEET

1989

Meet

Shellie Haffey Hageman

Induction

2013

Sports

Women's Cross Country, Track & Field

Graduation

1994

Shellie Haffey Hageman is a 1994 Oak Hills graduate who was a standout cross country and track student athlete. In Cross Country she was a two time state qualifier and in track and field she was a two time regional qualifier. As a student athlete at Oak Hills she was first team all-city in 1990 and 1991 and second team all-city in 1992 in cross country. Shellie was awarded a running scholarship to the University of Cincinnati where she was a top seven runner for three years. In 1998 she finished 3rd in the Conference USA finals. After college, Shellie has continued running in several events locally and qualified and ran the Boston Marathon. Shellie currently serves Oak Hills as the varsity cross country coach. She is a two time GMC Coach of the Year and has coached a state champion and guided the Highlanders to a Regional Championship, two GMC Championships and a 6th place finished in the State Finals. 

Shellie Hageman

MEET

1994

Meet

Steve Moore

Induction

2006

Sports

Graduation

Steve Moore was the Oak Hills basketball coach from 1965 - 1980. During that time, he won eight league championships, was named League coach of the year eight times and was named City of Cincinnati Coach of the Year twice. He led the 1970 team to undefeated regular season 18-0 and finished the season ranked third in the State of Ohio. His career record at Oak Hills was 235-66. Steve started the Oak Hills Junior Pro basketball program in 1972. This program today is organized in grades 3-12 and includes over 800 students. In 2001 Steve was named the assistant coach of the Kentucky Pro-Cats of the ABA. In 2004 he was the named the assistant coach of the Cincinnati Blaze of the ABA. 

Steve Moore

MEET

Meet

Steve Oliverio

Induction

2019

Sports

Men's Soccer, Baseball

Graduation

1980

Steve graduated from Oak Hills High School in 1980 where he played varsity soccer and baseball for the Highlanders. He was a large part of the 1980 state championship baseball team, going 8-0 in the playoffs and recording the final out of the state championship game. As of 2019, Steve still held the record for most innings pitched (161) and most career strikeouts (220). His high school ERA was 1.05 in 1979.   Following High School, Steve attended Cumberland University and the University of South Alabama on a baseball scholarship. During his two seasons at South Alabama, Steve held an overall record of 23-7 on the mound. He also was named to the Sunbelt All-Conference team in 1982 and 1983 and earned All-American honors in 1983. He was drafted in 1983 by the Cincinnati Reds in the Amateur Entry Draft. He pitched for the Cincinnati Reds Organization from 1983-1988 before being traded to the Mariners and Astros in 1989. During his time in the Reds organization, he held an overall record of 47-36 with a 3.67 ERA. He helped lead the team to two Eastern League championships in 1985 and 86’ as well as regular season champs in 1987. Steve had two of his best seasons during these championship runs, boasting a record of 16-5 and 14-7 in 85’ and 87’ respectively He also served as a minor league pitching instructor for the Reds organization in Billings, Montana. As a coach, he was a part of the 1994 Pioneer League championship team.  Upon retiring from baseball, Steve was an educator throughout Northern Kentucky for 19 years. He coached softball at Boone County High School and Ryle High School. He helped lead both teams to many championships and State appearances He also ran a private baseball academy, where he gave pitching and hitting instruction to youth players. Steve was married to his wife Patti for 32 years, and had two children, McKell and Seaver. 

SteveO

MEET

1980

Meet

The 1963 Undefeated Championship Football Team

Induction

2014

Sports

Graduation

The 1963 Undefeated Championship Football Team is the first team to ever be inducted into the Oak Hills Athletics Hall of Fame. Under Coach Will Rutenschroer, and led by All League Running Back Ron Ense, the team went 10-0 and won the Hamilton County League Championship in only their 5th year of having a football program. 

The 1963 Undefeated Championship Football Team

MEET

Meet

Todd Dietrich

Induction

2015

Sports

Men's Basketball

Graduation

1977

Todd Dietrich was a member of the graduating class of 1977 at Oak Hills, and played Varsity Basketball for the Highlanders. During his time at Oak Hills, He was named a 3 time All-League and All-City player in 1975-1977, was an All-State performer in 1976 (1st Team) and 1977 (2nd Team). He was named a Street and Smith Honorable Mention All-American in 1977, and was named the Ohio Player of the Year that same year. Following his graduation from Oak Hills, Dietrich accepted a Full Basketball Athletic Scholarship to Western Michigan University. 

Todd Dietrich

MEET

1977

Meet

Tom Kilgore

Induction

2010

Sports

Men's Baseball, Soccer

Graduation

1983

Tom Kilgore is 1983 graduate. During his playing career at Oak Hills, Tom earned six varsity letters while playing baseball and soccer. Currently, Tom is the all-time leading scorer in Oak Hills soccer history with thirty-five goals and twenty assists. He was a two-time all-conference and two-time all-city performer. He was a member of the 1980 Oak Hills state runner-up soccer team. Tom's baseball career at Oak Hills included many team and individual successes. He celebrated two conference championships, a district and regional championship, and a 1981 state runner-up finish. Tom was named all-conference, all-city, and all-state. In 1983, he was selected to play in the All-Ohio Mizuno Baseball Series. Tom went on to play baseball at Ball State University, earning an athletic scholarship. He was an All-Mid-American Conference performer in 1985, 86, and 87. Tom was selected Captain of the 1987 Ball State baseball team. Tom is currently in his 21st year as a teacher and coach at Milford High School. Tom has been the Head Baseball Coach for the past eleven years. Under his leadership, Milford finished as state runner-up in 2002 and 2003. Tom's 2003 baseball team finished as Division I State Poll Champions and was ranked as high as 6th nationally in the USA Today Poll. Tom has been named GMC, FAVC, Cincinnati Enquirer, and State of Ohio Coach of the Year. In addition to coaching baseball for the Eagles, he has also served as Head Boys Soccer Coach and as a basketball coach at various levels. 

Tom Kilgore

MEET

1983

Meet

Tom Price

Induction

2016

Sports

Men's Basketball, Soccer, Tennis

Graduation

1979

Tom Price was a graduate of Oak Hills in the class of 1979 has earned the Meritorious Service Award. During his time at Oak Hills, he was a member of 3 Varsity Sports, which were Basketball, Soccer and Tennis. Since 1983, Price has been involved with Oak Hills Junior Pro, now OHYA as a Coach, Board and Committee Member, Treasurer, Program Coordinator, and Referee Coordinator. He has also been an Oak Hills Booster Board Member for 7 years. He was also the school Basketball coach at Delhi, Bridgetown, and Oak Hills (volunteer). He also helped by operating the scoreboard at football and basketball games, chains for the football games, and kept the scorebook for both Men's and Women's Basketball games. He also spends free time volunteering in capacities such as Split the Pot vendor at athletic events and the Booster Athletic Stag.

Tom Price

MEET

1979

Meet

Tracy Morgan

Induction

2014

Sports

Women's Soccer, Basketball, Track

Graduation

Tracy Morgan was a Varsity Soccer, Basketball, and Track athlete during her time at Oak Hills, which was from 1995-1998. Morgan was awarded 1st team All-Conference, 1st team All-District, and 1st team All-City in both Basketball and Soccer. She still holds many school records for both Basketball and Soccer. Morgan accepted a full academic scholarship to play Women’s Basketball at UNC-Wilmington from 1999-2004. Despite missing her first year with an injury, she went on to be a 4 year starter for the team and was the team’s leading rebounder. She went on to earn her Marketing/Finance degree and currently works as a Senior Analyst for Duke Energy. In her free time, she is also the Varsity Assistant Basketball Coach for Ursuline Academy

Tracy Mueller

MEET

Meet

Wil Rutenschroer

Induction

2006

Sports

Graduation

Wil Rutenschroer was the first Oak Hills Athletic Director, first Football Coach, first Baseball Coach, and first Track Coach. He started the football program in 1957 as a junior high school coach. In 1958 when Oak Hills High School was opened he took over as the head varsity coach for the football program. He coached football for twenty years and finished with a record of 146-62-9. He guided the Highlanders to seven league championships and two city championships. Wil was a seven time Hamilton County Coach of the Year and also was awarded the City of Cincinnati Coach of the Year. The only Oak Hills football team to go undefeated was in 1963 and Wil coached this team. In 1989, Coach Rutenschroer was inducted into the Ohio State Football Coaches Hall of Fame. In May 2005, Wil was elected to the Price Hill Baseball Old Timers Hall of Fame. After coaching, Wil was a scout for the Kansas City Royals and was selected as the Topps National Scout of the Year. Wil Rutenschroer was one of the founders of Oak Hills Athletics. 

Will Rutenschroer

MEET

Meet

Yoshi Oyakawa

Induction

2008

Sports

Graduation

Coach Yoshi Oyakawa was the swimming coach at Oak Hills High School from 1960 - 1985. Prior to coaching at Oak Hills, Oyakawa represented the United States at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, where he won the 1952 Olympic backstroke gold medal in 1:05.4, finally breaking Adolph Kiefer’s Olympic record of 1.05.9 set in 1936. He returned to Olympic competition at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia, where he was elected co-captain along with Ford Konno. He finished 8th in the 100-meter backstroke competition. He was awarded an athletic scholarship to attend the Ohio State University for swimming where he won 6 Big Ten and 7 NCAA titles.

Coach Oyakawa started at Oak Hills in the fall of 1960. During his coaching career he led the Highlanders to twenty-three team conference championships. He coached 6 state champions and two Olympians. He was named League Coach of Year twenty-three times, SW Ohio Swimming Coach of the Year twelve times, Cincinnati Enquirer and Cincinnati Post Coach of the Year and in 1972 he was named The State of Ohio Division I Coach of the Year.

Yoshi Oyakawa

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