A Look Into State Tourney Preparations

OHSAA Commissioner Dr. Deborah Moore opens up about the Final Four

Some things at the state volleyball final four remain the same, whether it be certain coaches, officials, teams, media personnel, or even certain fans. Interestingly, there is one staple to the Nutter Center on the campus of Wright State University in Dayton that many know this time of year. Dr. Deborah Moore has been the OHSAA commissioner in attendance for as long as one can remember. Just how long?
“I have attended for a total of 24 years, the last 20 continuously during my tenure with the OHSAA,” offered Dr. Moore.
Dr. Moore has taken this event very seriously during her time and really has gained a fond love of the game, especially during the state final four.
“I love this tournament. Volleyball is just such a fantastic sport – so exciting, very fan-friendly. Each year when I come to our finalists’ meeting, which takes place on the Sunday preceding the state tournament, I look forward to visiting all the coaches and their school administrators. I know what an exciting and challenging time it is for each of them, and my job is to help make the experience the very best it can be for students, coaches and the school communities,” said Dr. Moore.
Maximum Preparation
It’s no surprise each season to see Dr Moore very busy on the sidelines with media, coaches, players, Nutter Center employees, and all the behind the scenes work. In fact, most of us don’t quite understand the small details that it takes to make the final four so successful.
“We start preparing for the season at least six months ahead of the event,” adds Dr. Moore. “We prepare the tournament regulations, which are adopted by our Board of Directors in June, and then I spend the months of September and October communicating with tournament managers and revising administrative documents that assist us with the management of our regional and state tournaments. Just last week I spent the day in Dayton meeting with Mr. Max Benton our state tournament manager. I will spend the next couple weeks putting the finishing touches on our state tournament preparations.”
The Nutter Center has always provided fans with such a great venue to watch volleyball up close in a spacious environment. It also provides a great facility for the players during this crucial weekend.
Dr. Moore admits, “I think the Nutter Center at WSU is a fantastic venue. The staff at the Center and the university personnel have been great friends to the OHSAA in their support of girls volleyball and in continuing to permit us to compete this tournament in a first class facility. While not one of the largest collegiate facilities in the state, it is perfect for volleyball and has the added advantage of warm-up courts for our competing schools to use prior to their matches.”
Format Changes
Also, some changes are in effect this year for the final four that some may not know. Dr Moore spoke about some of these upcoming changes.
“The major change is in the format,” she stated. “For the first time, we will conduct this tournament similar to the way state basketball is competed. Thursday’s competition will feature four matches, the two semis in Division II followed by Division I starting at Noon. Friday’s competition follows the same format with semis in Division IV and then III starting at Noon. Saturday will be the four final matches as in the past. For a fan, being able to see four matches each day for one price - $9.00 at the gate; $7.00 presale at the schools – is a great deal.”
Broadcasting the Championships
Also, this year will feature Cleveland.com broadcasting LIVE final four games on their affiliated OhioHSsports.com website. Dr. Moore couldn’t be more thrilled with this new addition.
“We feel privileged to have entered into this agreement with Cleveland.com that will enable us to broadcast this sport for the first time. It clearly says that there is a market for girls volleyball and that people who are unable to travel to the Dayton area can enjoy the competition.”
Stepping outside of the business aspect of the final four, Dr. Moore touched on some of the personal joys of this great weekend in November. When asked if she had time to do any fun social events during that time, she replied, “A little. My in-laws live in Dayton so I try to visit with them a bit, and I usually come in on Wednesday evening and spend some time with one of my best friends from high school days. But once the tournament begins, there is not much time for social events.”
She added, “This year we are moving to the new format with four matches per day, so I will see how that works out. Usually I am very tired each evening and want to get plenty of rest so that I can be at my best each day.”
Love of Athletics
Spending twenty years at the final four really speaks volumes about Dr. Moore’s commitment to the sport of volleyball. As a former athlete herself, she does remember some of her old playing days. She recalls, “I played volleyball in junior high and high school and then some club ball early in my adult life. Girls sports were not highly organized back in the 1960’s, but I enjoyed playing all positions. I am not tall, but I could jump so I enjoyed the hitting aspect.”
Witnessing State Volleyball History
During her long tenure she has had the opportunity to see so many great volleyball teams like the old Cincinnati St. Ursula teams, the Hopewell's, the Archbold's and legendary coach Char Sharp. When asked about some of the great memories she had, she stated, “I am not sure I can pick one moment. Here are some of my favorites: seeing the great match-ups in Division 1 pitting the outstanding teams from the Girls Greater Cincinnati League; the awesome teams from small schools like St. Henry and Hopewell-Loudon with their huge fan following; the tiny school from Plain City, Shekinah Christian that made it to the tournament in the mid 1990’s and brought so many folks. Of course I always loved watching Bob McFarland’s Stow-Monroe Falls teams compete – what a terrific program he developed.”
She added,” Every year is special and I have so many wonderful memories.”
Ohio---Volleyball Hotbed
Ohio should be proud of the development of girls volleyball. More and more colleges are now recruiting Ohio heavily including the powers of UCLA, Penn State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and even Stanford. Dr. Moore stated, “I think volleyball is progressing extremely well both in terms of the development of players and the overall participation for our girls. Ohio’s volleyball coaches are well respected and do a great job in teaching the sport as well as inspiring girls to want to play this game.”


Dr. Deborah Moore Associate Commissioner for Eligibility since August 7, 2008 Assistant Commissioner since June 5, 1989 Responsibilitites: Coaching Education, Interpretation of Bylaws and Constitution, Referendum Issues and Voting, OHSAA Chemical Awareness, Healthy Lifestyles Programs and Sports Medicine Issues, Rules/Regulations for FH, GGYM, VB, SD, TF, Tournament Officials Assignments for FH, GGYM, Scholar-Athlete Scholarships, Student Eligibility Questions - including transfers and foreign exchange students

REGIONAL FINALS SET IN D1 and D3

Tonight offered lots of surprises! Captain Brinn was at Findlay watching the D3 Semi-Finals featuring a St. Henry and LCC win, while Keane was at Norwalk watching as TSUA almost upset #2 and undefeated Olmsted Falls and Findlay pushed Rocky River Magnificat. The surprises? How about Dublin Coffman falling to Olentangy in five? How about Anna being hammered by Middletown Bishop Fenwick? How about Cloverleaf defeating Mentor in their D1 Regional? Whew! Good stuff happening in the volleyball tournament right now and here are the matchups for the finals, with our picks in BOLD:

DIVISION ONE
Olentangy v. Cincinnati Ursuline
Olmsted Falls v. Rocky River Magnificat
Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame v. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy (DEAD EVEN MATCH)
Cloverleaf v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (UPSET WATCH)

DIVISION THREE
Lima Central Catholic v. St. Henry (UPSET WATCH)
Frankfort Adena v. Albany Alexander
Gilmour Academy v. West Salem Northwestern
Versailles v. Middletown Bishop Fenwick

OLMSTED (nearly) FALLS!

What a match tonight. I couldn't believe my eyes as I was watching this one in person! Toledo St. Ursula, who did not impress me much all season, nearly pulled off one of the biggest upsets thus far in the tourney. TSUA grabbed the first two games of their match with #2 and undefeated Olmsted Falls 25-18 and 25-20. It wasn't until game three when Olmsted decided to show up I guess and took the next three, 25-14, 25-20, 15-11. Olmsted survives and will advance to play Magnificat or Findlay.
Other news from our team around the state. St. Henry knocks off Huron in D3 in four games, Gilmour Academy and Albany Alexander advance, while Cincinnati Ursuline demolishes Marysville in less than an hour in three games.

MORE TO COME...

REGIONAL FINALS SET IN D2 and D4

The Division 2 and 4 Regional Semi's got things underway tonight in the battle for who will go to state next week. There were some surprises, especially #1 Tippecanoe falling in D2 and #6 and defending state champion, Toledo Central Catholic, going down to #17 Celina. In D4, Lehman Catholic did not put up a fight against Fort Loramie and is out of the tourney. Here are the D2 and D4 match-up for Saturday and our new picks in BOLD:

DIVISION TWO
Celina v. Mansfield Madison
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Mentor Lake Catholic (UPSET WATCH)
Logan Elm v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Columbus Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut

DIVISION FOUR
Newark Catholic v. South Webster
Marion Local v. Leipsic
Fort Loramie v. Jackson Center (UPSET WATCH)
Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central

Upset City!

All the results aren't in tonight, but we do know that D2#1 Tipp City Tippecanoe went down in four to Kettering Archbishop Alter! We predicted earlier that Tippecanoe might be vulnerable to the tradition-rich GGCL Alter, but thought they would have enough to make it to state and contend for the title.
Another somewhat surprising result, though we also said it could happen is Fort Loramie handing Lehman Catholic a loss in semi-finals in just three games!
Right now another upset is in the making as Celina leads Toledo Central Catholic 2 games to 1!
Other results we know of:
Marion Local wins easy over Calvert and will face Leipsic, another easy victor over Pettisville
Mansfield Madison beat Wooster Triway in 4
South Webster outlasted Beaver Eastern
Buckeye Central won in 3
Bishop Hartley won in 3
Kidron Central Christian won in 3
Parma Padua defeats Walsh Jesuit

MORE TO COME...

REGIONALS IN-DEPTH

Some great match-ups begin tonight in regionals and there are certainly a lot of surprises that could come out of the matches. Here is a look in-depth at the regional storylines:

DIVISION ONE
Best Match: Dublin Coffman is the real deal perhaps, but the meeting with Olentangy might prove to be a real battle.
Not a Chance: Marysville proved their worthiness in our poll by upsetting Bishop Watterson last weekend for a regional appearance, but they do not stand a chance against the #1 team in D1 and a GGCL team to boot, Cincinnati Ursuline. It will be over quick.
Upset Potential: Could TSUA get the best of Olmsted Falls? Doubt it, but this match looks intriguing. Mentor and Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. are highly vulnerable in their semi-final matches.

DIVISION TWO
Best Match: Mansfield Madison and Wooster Triway will be an all-out battle and Alter and Tippecanoe battled to five at the start of the season. Will Alter end the hopes and dreams of the folks from Tipp City?
Not a Chance: Claymont who? They don't belong and will face defeat against Bishop Hartley.
Upset Potential: Besides the potential of Alter ousting Tippecanoe, Walsh Jesuit could end Padua Franciscan's season and Mentor Lake Catholic is a serious threat to Salem, who is hoping to return to state for the second year-in-a-row.

DIVISION THREE
Best Match: Huron and St. Henry get this nod since both are perennial powers and both aren't as strong as they traditionally are. St. Henry, for the second time in as many seasons, looked dead in the water, but has once again found a way to surprise. Huron hasn't struggled as bad, but they don't play as tough a schedule as St. Henry. Should be a good battle, but St. Henry should prevail.
Not a Chance: Westfall has traditionally been a fairly good program, but this year they won't be able to keep up with a very strong Alexander team, a favorite for the title.
Upset Potential: Cleveland VASJ seems to bring it every year come tourney time. Don't be shocked to see them pull off an upset against West Salem NW. Also, could Tuscarawas Valley shock Frankfort Adena?

DIVISION FOUR
Best Match: Sidney Lehman Catholic and Fort Loramie will be the best semi-final match in this division. Do not be surprised if Fort Loramie pulls it off, but they will have to have a great matchup against a well-coached and tested program like LC.
Not a Chance: Basically all three teams in the regional with Marion Local. What a waste of a regional bracket. It is such a shame that teams like New Bremen, Convoy Crestview, Minster, Fort Recovery, etc. are ousted each year so early when teams like Pettisville are a regional semi-finalist. Leipsic and Tiffin Calvert may be ranked, but they also don't stand a chance of stopping a MAC team.
Upset Potential: Division 4 is the blandest division of them all. There is no parody anymore in this division and where there is some it is all present in one or two regions so the quality teams are booted early leaving for a dull regional set-up. Biggest potential for an upset? Probably a small, small chance for Tusky Central Catholic over Newark Catholic and maybe Kidron over Buckeye Central in Regional Finals.

Captain Brinn's Regional Predictions!

Regionals get underway Wednesday night, and here is how we think things will pan out and who will be playing in the final four next week:
DIVISION ONE
Stow Munroe-Falls v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.)
Cloverleaf v. Mentor (Mentor)
Regional Final: Mentor v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Regional Champ: Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.

Toledo St. Ursula v. Olmsted Falls (Olmsted Falls)
Rocky River Magnificat v. Findlay (Magnificat)
Regional Final: Olmsted Falls v. Magnificat
Regional Champ: Olmsted Falls

Cincinnati Ursuline v. Marysville (Ursuline)
Olentangy v. Dublin Coffman (Dublin Coffman)
Regional Final: Ursuline v. Dublin Coffman
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Ursuline

Lakota West v. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame (Mt. Notre Dame)
Cincinnati Mother of Mercy v. Cincinnati McAuley (Mother of Mercy)
Regional Final: Mt. Notre Dame v. Mother of Mercy
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame

DIVISION TWO
Mansfield Madison v. Wooster Triway (Mansfield Madison)
Toledo Central Catholic v. Celina (TCC)
Regional Final: Mansfield Madison v. Toledo Central Catholic
Regional Champ: Toledo Central Catholic

Parma Padua Franciscan v. Walsh Jesuit (Parma Padua Franciscan)
Mentor Lake Catholic v. Salem (Salem)
Regional Final: Padua Franciscan v. Salem
Regional Champ: Parma Padua Franciscan

Tippecanoe v. Alter (Tippecanoe)
Logan Elm v. Urbana (Urbana)
Regional Final: Tippecanoe v. Urbana
Regional Champ: Tippecanoe

Claymont v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (Bishop Hartley)
Big Walnut v. Warsaw River View (Big Walnut)
Regional Final: Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
Regional Champ: Bishop Hartley

DIVISION THREE
Huron v. St. Henry (St. Henry)
Lima Central Catholic v. Heath (LCC)
Regional Final: St. Henry v. LCC
Regional Champ: Lima Central Catholic

Gilmour Academy v. New Middletown Springfield (Gilmour Academy)
West Salem NW v. Cleveland VASJ (West Salem NW)
Regional Final: Gilmour Academy v. West Salem NW
Regional Champ: Gilmour Academy

Columbus Bishop Ready v. Versailles (Versailles)
Bishop Fenwick v. Anna (Anna)
Regional Final: Versailles v. Anna
Regional Champ: Anna

Albany Alexander v. Westfall (Alexander)
Tuscarawas Valley v. Frankfort Adena (Frankfort Adena)
Regional Final: Alexander v. Adena
Regional Champ: Alexander

DIVISION FOUR
Leipsic v. Pettisville (Leipsic)
Marion Local v. Tiffin Calvert (Marion Local)
Regional Final: Leipsic v. Marion Local
Regional Champ: Marion Local

South Webster v. Beaver Eastern (South Webster)
Tuscarawas Central Catholic v. Newark Catholic (Newark Catholic)
Regional Final: South Webster v. Newark Catholic
Regional Champ: Newark Catholic

Mineral Ridge v. Kidron Central Christian (Kidron Central Christian)
Buckeye Central v. Cornerstone Christian (Buckeye Central)
Regional Final: Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central
Regional Champ: Buckeye Central

Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Fort Loramie (Lehman Catholic)
Jackson Center v. Lancaster Fisher Catholic (Jackson Center)
Regional Final: Lehman Catholic v. Jackson Center
Regional Champ: Jackson Center

SWEET SATURDAY!

The Sweet 16 will be determined after Saturday's remaining District Final match-ups. Here are today's matches that spark an interest:
MATCHES OF THE DAY
D1: #26 Toledo St. Ursula v. #14 Toledo Notre Dame (These two rivals meet once again. Look for Notre Dame to once again get the best of TSUA, who upset Sylvania Southview to get here today.)
D2: #1 Tippecanoe v. #12 Cincinnati McNicholas (The pressure is on for Tippecanoe, who will face a GGCL team not afraid or intimidated. McNick could pull off the upset today, though Tippecanoe might come out focused enough to put an early end to any upset hopes.)
D3: #21 Anna v. #22 Cincinnati Roger Bacon (Both teams underachieved this season, but both former state champions are always capable of making a big tourney run. Roger Bacon's GGCL experiences should help them advance to regionals today.)
D4: #9 Buckeye Central v. #3 Norwalk St. Paul (NSP should win in three today, but Buckeye Central, who for years held NSP back in districts, could put a scare in the defending state runners-up. Still, NSP should be back to regionals and on their way to another state appearance.)
OTHER MATCHES TO WATCH:
D1: #13 Marysville will try to surprise #8 Columbus Bishop Watterson
D1: #12 Olentangy may have enough to upend #6 Pickerington North
D1: #9 Lebanon will attempt what so many public schools fail to do in tourney, put an end to a GGCL team's tourney run. This time it's #5 Mother of Mercy standing in the way.
D2: #17 Celina is looking for another regional appearance, but #24 Tiffin Columbian may just end those dreams.
D2: #16 Indian Hill may be ranked higher, but in tourney they will be an underdog versus battle-tested and tradition-rich #19 Alter.
D3: #6 Gilmour Academy will look to end #9 Berkshire's season.
D3: #14 Heath and #15 Fredericktown are pretty even this season. Heath may be just a bit better, but it is anyone's match.
D4: #5 Marion Local and #13 Convoy Crestview have battled many times over the last few years in this district final spot, but Crestview never can get over the MAC-hump! Marion Local is on their way to another final four.

Topsy-Turvy Tuesday

Tuesday's District Semi-Finals featured some high-quality matches that changed the trajectory of the race to state! Here's a look at some of the highlights:

• #5 Marion Local ousts #4 New Bremen: During the regular season meeting, New Bremen won a tight five-game battle, and tonight's contest was what we have come to expect from the MAC. A five-game thriller that ended with Marion Local advancing to District Finals Saturday, 26-24, 26-28, 25-5, 23-25, 15-11. While New Bremen was our pick to head to state in D4, this one was always going to be a toss-up. For New Bremen Coach Lisa Thobe, it was another heartbreaking defeat that squelched her opportunity to take a team at least to regionals and perhaps vie for a state championship. For Marion Local, it is gives them a clear path to state to defend last year's title. I was at this match tonight at New Bremen and the atmosphere was electric! Great match, but ML stepped it up and New Bremen was clearly intimidated by Marion Local's tradition.
• #13 Convoy Crestview will face Marion Local Saturday after defeating #27 Delphos St. John's in five. Crestview traditionally makes it to District Finals, but their MAC foe always proves too tough. Look for Marion Local to head to regionals and breeze to state.
• #8 Leipsic defeated Pandora-Gilboa tonight, but it wasn't easy. They needed five games to do it, 22-25, 25-19, 25-9, 23-25, 15-10.
• #25 St. Henry upset #10 Rockford Parkway in four games, 25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 29-27
• #3 Norwalk St. Paul handed #21 Monroeville a four-game defeat
• Big upset at Old Fort tonight as #22 Tiffin Calvert continues their series of upsets and takes down #7 Hopewell-Loudon in five, 25-17, 16-25, 16-25, 26-24, 15-11.
• Antwerp upset #24 Edon in five games
• #12 Milan Edison couldn't get over the hump against #11 Huron, as Huron defeats them in four games.
• #23 Riverdale over Lakota in four.
• #7 Orrville easily handled #4 Smithville and will face #3 West Salem Northwestern on Saturday.
• #17 Celina and #24 Tiffin Columbian both won and will face-off on Saturday.
• #20 Tuscarawas Valley took-out #19 Buckeye Trail, while #8 Monroe Central was upset by unranked Ridgewood in five games.
• #24 Evergreen is out of the tourney after being upset by Liberty Center.
  

THE BIG BRAG: Mid-State League vs. Ohio Capital Conference

This week Captain Brinn's Ohio Varsity will be holding THE BIG BRAG competition between leagues and conferences as we get ready for district tournaments. Here is your chance to post comments here on the blog, within the social community, or by emailing them to captainbrinn@gmail.com.
What's the competition? Well, whichever league has the most verbal and opinionated and proud fans and the more they share their comments with us, that league will win BRAGGING RIGHTS against the league they are up against here on the blog. As we head into regionals we will see if those bragging rights are backed up by results or if those words are just hot air! Tonight, we have two HUGE leagues...literally. The Mid-State League boasts 23 teams, while the Ohio Capital Conference hosts 30 teams! Which league, though, has the most fans who want to BRAG them up! Brag about your teams and your league by posting in the comments section of the blog, by emailing your bragging to us or by posting them on the social community!
The Mid-State League's Canal Winchester (D2) has some fans on JJHuddle who might be looking past Granville and to a match-up with the OCC's Big Walnut (#11, D2) in district finals. Big Walnut, of course, was handed a loss this season by the MSL's Newark Catholic (#2, D4). That's just a taste of what these two leagues have to offer, along with teams like the OCC' s Pickerington North (#6, D1), Dublin Coffman (#4, D1), and Olentangy (#12, D1), and the MSL's Heath (#14, D3) and West Jefferson (#28, D3).
So, let the bragging begin....

TOMORROW'S BIG BRAG WILL FEATURE The Midwest Athletic Conference vs. The Shelby County League!

Saturday's matches offer little surprise

There weren't any major upsets in yesterday's tourney action, but it did begin the process of setting up some very interesting matches down the road. Here's a round-up of yesterday by division:
Division One
Ranked teams winning included Olentangy, Pickerington North, Hudson, Olmsted Falls, Sylvania Southview, Cincinnati Ursuline, Lebanon, Elyria.
#29 Centerville upset #7 Dayton C-J in three
Unranked Cincinnati Seton defeated #22 Lakota East
Division Two
Ranked winners included Columbus Bishop Hartley, Sunbury Big Walnut, Warsaw River View, Kenston, Cincinnati McNicholas, Tippecanoe, Kettering Alter
Division Three
Ranked winners included Marion Pleasant, Orrville, Smithville, Huron, Riverdale, LCC, Versailles, St. Henry, Albany Alexander, , Rockford Parkway.
#21 Anna defeated #29 Tri-County North in four games.
Division Four
Ranked winners were Sidney Lehman Catholic, Convoy Crestview, New Bremen, Marion Local, Hopewell-Loudon, Norwalk St. Paul, Monroeville, Gilead Christian, Leipsic, Fort Loramie, Kidron Central Christian, Edon, Newark Catholic
#27 Delphos St. John's upset #18 Kalida in five games
#22 Tiffin Calvert upset #11 Sycamore Mohawk in three games

CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: The Battle of Tippecanoe Part II

Experience Proving the Difference for Tippecanoe’s Carus
--Part II of the in depth look at the head coach for Tippecanoe

Pat Carus took over the Tipp City Tippecanoe job five years ago. He had a vision—a big vision for the program. He wanted to turn this once good program into a state power. Now, one year removed from a state semifinal appearance, he and his team remain undefeated, ranked #1 in the polls, and are ready to make another run towards the state title. Carus recalls, “We got asked to take over the THS program 5 years ago. The mission was to rebuild a once strong program back to where it was. That journey is never over, each year you get a chance to try and see if you can add to the value of what we provide.” It appears he has his program on track and even stronger.
It’s no surprise to see the success Coach Carus has garnered in such a short time. His history is volleyball rich dating back over thirty-five years. Carus grew up in Wisconsin and had the opportunity to play men’s volleyball in high school in which the team went 76-1 and captured a state title. From there, Carus went on to play for the Buckeyes of Ohio State. Carus remembers, “One of the guys ahead of me went on to play at Ball State and then transferred to UCLA (Dave Mochalski). I went on and played at Ohio State. This was all in the late 70’s, early 80’s. Once out of college, I continued in the game as a member of the Kenneth Allen Volleyball Club out of Chicago (among others), winning a US Open title in 1989 as a starting middle.”
Adding to his experience as a player, Pat Carus also took on the role of officiating which also improved his knowledge of the game. He explained, “I was also an official for fifteen years working both the women’s and men’s game. Got to work 5 men’s Final Fours – two in Pauley Pavilion at UCLA, one in Hawaii, and one at IPFW where Penn State was the first non-west coast team to win a title (1994). Also had the privilege of doing some great women’s matches for the MAC, Big Ten, SEC and A-10 along with some post-season.”
After stepping away from the game for some time, he relocated with his family and wife to Tipp City. Soon, word traveled fast of his past success and impressive resume. He seemed like the perfect fit for the Lady Red Devils program. He was approached by Tippecanoe’s faithful to help redirect the ship and take the program to the next level. He had a clear vision. “We stressed the importance of a feeder program, respect for the game and those you come into contact with along the way and the players, parents and administration have walked through the door we opened by getting involved with JO, working hard and sharing our joy for the game,” answered Carus. “We are very lucky here because the community has bought into our vision. We have a great administration, great parents, and enthusiastic players whose mission is to get better every day and willingly work on a multitude of things both in season and out of season to get the most out of the game. They truly share our passion for the game.”
He admits that Tippecanoe’s success can also be attributed to the entire coaching staff at the Tippecanoe program. From the junior high to the varsity level, Coach Carus is very excited about his supporting staff. He offers, “I have an awesome staff. They are critical to our success, because I do have a great job and company that lets me give back to my community in this fashion. Richard Brenneman has been with us forever. He had two daughters play for us and the kids love and respect his energy and enthusiasm. Alexis Dedrick handles our Reserve team and she has as much to do with how ready they are for varsity as any one. She has a great rapport with the players and is a student of the game, learning more every year.” Fortunately, the Lady Red Devils were able to recapture their freshman program after it dissipated for two seasons due to fiscal issues. Now, Tippecanoe has added a former Chaminade-Julienne representative in Paula Boch. “This year we added Paula Boch to our staff as our Freshman coach. Our feeder stumbled a bit for two years but we were able to get our freshman program back. They made huge strides under her guidance,” replied Carus. He also went on to add how important of a role the junior high coaches have played in their instant success. “I also have to give congratulations to our new staff at our middle school. We made some changes this year and the 8th graders won their conference championship and the 7th graders finished 2nd. More importantly from where we sit, the staff there (Vicki Varvel, Tracy Mader and Mark Mays) instilled the love and respect for the game.”
Beyond all the coaching success Pat Carus has achieved, the most enjoyable part of his job is the teaching. He excitingly admits, “The ability to positively influence young people in our society and to watch them grow and learn and see their eyes light up when they achieve something great. To watch them turn into not just great volleyball players, but also to go beyond that and teach life lessons and watch what they become.”
It’s quite clear why Tippecanoe has exploded onto the map of upper echelon volleyball programs. Coach Pat Carus brings a wealth of volleyball knowledge, experience, passion, and has surrounded himself with a great coaching staff, administration, and very talented high school girls. He truly is one of Ohio’s brightest volleyball minds, and he and his team are making yet another statement with their bid to return to the Final Four.

CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: D3 & D4 Regional Predictions

Division Three Region 9 Regional Matchup Predictions
Gilmour Academy v. New Middletown Springfield (Spoiler Alert: Berkshire upends Gilmour)
Orrville v. Independence (Spoiler Alert: I have a gut feeling Orrville will shock everyone and make it here over two top teams in West Salem NW and Smithville, but it's anyone's guess)
Region 10 Regional Matchup Predictions
Huron v. Rockford Parkway (Spoiler Alert: Milan Edison could finally overcome Huron and Parkway has to watch out for St. Henry or Metamora Evergreen)
Heath v. L.C.C. (Spoiler Alert: Fredericktown could beat Heath)
Region 11 Regional Matchup Predictions
Albany Alexander v. Wheelersburg
Monroe Central v. Frankfort Adena (Spoiler Alert: Monroe Central better be mindful of Tuscarawas Valley)
Region 12 Regional Matchup Predictions
Columbus Bishop Ready v. Versailles (Spoiler Alert: Marion Pleasant over Ready)
Middletown Bishop Fenwick v. Cincinnati Roger Bacon (Spoiler Alert: Middletown Madison is probably favored, but I am picking Fenwick; Anna may be able to pull it off against RB)

Division Three Regional Finals
Region 9
Gilmour Academy v. Orrville
Region 10
Rockford Parkway v. Lima Central Catholic
Region 11
Albany Alexander v. Frankfort Adena
Region 12
Versailles v. Cincinnati Roger Bacon

Division Four Regional Matchup Predictions Region 13
Lordstown v. Kidron Central Christian
Norwalk St. Paul v. Ashtabula St. John & Paul (Spoiler Alert: A far off chance that Buckeye Central could shock NSP.)
Region 14
Leipsic v. Edon (Spoiler Alert: Antwerp may displace Edon.)
New Bremen v. Hopewell-Loudon (Spoiler Alert: This region is ripe for spoilers. New Bremen has to stave off not only Marion Local, but also Minster. H-L could easily fall to Sycamore Mohawk or Tiffin Calvert before regionals)
Region 15
South Webster v. Reedsville Eastern
Tuscarawas Central Catholic v. Newark Catholic
Region 16
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Fort Loramie
Jackson Center v. Gilead Christian (Spoiler Alert: Shekinah Christian might shock Gilead.)

Division Four Regional Finals Region 13
Kidron Central Christian v. Norwalk St. Paul
Region 14
Leipsic v. New Bremen
Region 15
South Webster v. Newark Catholic
Region 16
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Jackson Center

CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: The Battle of Tippecanoe

After the final whistle blew last year in the state Division II semi-final game, Bishop Hartley celebrated a monumental victory winning 16-14 in the fifth game in what some believed to be one of the most exciting matches in recent years. The Nutter Center was absolutely electric. Across the net, you could see the opposite and the despair in the eyes of the Tipp City Tippecanoe players and head coach Pat Carus.

“Yes, it was complete heartache, especially the way this one ended but as I told the kids both years, the sun came up the next day, it didn’t kill us, it just might make us stronger. Let’s analyze, fix it and move on,” Carus explains.

Ironically, the same thing happened the year before in Districts to perennial power Cincinnati Roger Bacon.

“In the Bacon match, too many errors – and they were a very good team. You let a good team hang around and your chances of success go way down. In the Hartley match – ditto – we had 9-5 and 10-7 leads in game 5 – you blame nobody for that but yourself – you must finish. Again, Hartley was a very good team – and if you let them hang around…,” said Carus.

This season has shaped up again to be a spectacular run for Tippecanoe again. Currently standing at 24-0 and ranked #1 in the Captain Brinn and the Coach’s Poll, the Lady Devils have their eyes on one thing…the state title. They have an astounding, combined record of 52-1 in two seasons. The team seems to have all the right pieces and have gelled well all season long.

“We have five seniors, five juniors and three sophomores. I think it is the balance we have that has made things okay the last few years – we have our comedians and our serious ones but they also know when it’s time to focus. They have great respect for each other, are VERY unselfish, sacrificing the individual honor for team goals,” offered Carus.

Also, this team has had to endure some growing pains with the loss of two standout seniors one season ago in Porto and Andrews, who by the way had stellar state semi games.

“Interestingly, they [the younger players] have a good bit of experience so they have been chomping at the bit to show what they can do. Last year we got an opportunity for them to see the court a ton during the regular season and into the post season. Two of the three sophomores started a good bit of the season as freshman and did great stuff and the third one came in against Archbishop McNicholas and did a whale of a job for us. Because of the feeder program and their good JO experiences – plus the understanding of what it is starting to mean to play for Tippecanoe – they hit the ground running,” Carus said proudly of his team.

Tipp City Tippecanoe has great hitters, good defense, setting, and are tough mentally. Interestingly, when asked, about their biggest asset none of the above was mentioned by Carus.

He stated, “Unselfishness. I know it sounds funny but they really do like and respect each other and they prepare hard for every opponent. They study hard and adjust to whatever we ask them to do on the court – and the best part is they are capable of doing it – a true pleasure to work with!”

The path that lies ahead for Tippecanoe is definitely no easy road. A possible match-up with McNicholas in District Finals awaits, as well as a big obstacle in Archbishop Alter in regionals possibly.

“I intentionally tried to add some tougher matches, so I hope it pays off for us. I couldn’t care less about being undefeated or where we are ranked at any point in the season. Is it an honor? Sure, because it is a measure of how far the kids have come,” replied Carus.

The team understands to remain focused and play to their strengths, according to Carus.

“I’m going to go with my short answer here, please forgive me (besides, I don’t want to tip my hand). Our mission is to get better every day. We know others are doing the same thing, getting better every day. We can only control what we do on our side and the game plan for each team as they come along.”

Carus knows his foundation has been paved. The players have the experience of the final four. They have learned what it feels like to come up short. They have defeated every opponent they have faced this year. What will it actually take to get back to the Nutter Center ?

“As a coach in a JO program myself, you get to talk to lots of people from different programs. Two years ago I had the privilege of coaching a great team of kids that included three Alter ladies who had just come off a State Championship season. In talking to them and their parents the underlying themes were hard work, preparation, relentlessness and - a little bit of good luck,” offered Carus.

Luck, in most cases in athletics, usually seems to follow the teams who have prepared the most. Tipp City Tippecanoe has prepared quite a bit, and they seem to be ready to do battle and make their own history for themselves, their community, the fans, and their coach.

--stay tuned for part II of this exclusive in depth look into the Tipp City Tippecanoe program and their mentor Pat Carus

CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: D1 & D2 Regional Predictions

DIVISION ONE
Region 1 Regional Matchup Predictions
Cloverleaf v. Mentor (Spoiler Alert: Cloverleaf better watch out for Wadsworth or Wooster)
Stow Munroe Falls v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (Spoiler Alert: Hudson could stop Brecksville)
Region 2 Regional Matchup Predictions
Toledo Notre Dame v. Olmsted Falls (Spoiler Alert: TSUA could surprise TNDA)
Rocky River Magnificat v. Bowling Green (Spoiler Alert: Findlay or Anthony Wayne over BG)
Region 3 Regional Matchup Predictions
Cincinnati Ursuline v. Columbus Bishop Watterson (Spoiler Alert: Marysville surprises Watterson)
Pickerington North v. Dublin Coffman (Spoiler Alert: Olentangy could oust Pickerington North)
Region 4 Regional Matchup Predictions
Lakota East v. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame (Spoiler Alert: Seton may upend Lakota East)
Cincinnati Mother of Mercy v. Dayton C-J (Spoiler Alert: Lebanon has a longshot chance of Mother of Mercy and CSUA and Centerville may replace DCJ here)

Division One Regional Finals
Region One
Mentor v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Region Two
Olmsted Falls v. Rocky River Magnificat
Region Three
Cincinnati Ursuline v. Dublin Coffman
Region Four
Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame v. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy


DIVISION TWO
Region 5 Regional Matchup Predictions
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit (Spoiler Alert: Holy Name over Franciscan and Kenston avoids the upset against Walsh Jesuit)
Hubbard v. Salem (Spoiler Alert: Lake Catholic could easily knock off Hubbard)
Region 6 Regional Matchup Predictions
Coshocton v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (Spoiler Alert: John Glenn over Coshocton)
Big Walnut v. Warsaw River View
Region 7 Regional Matchup Predictions
Mansfield Madison Comp v. Wooster Triway (Spoiler Alert: Canal Fulton NW over Triway)
Toledo Central Catholic v. Celina (Spoiler Alert: Tiffin Columbian over Celina)
Region 8 Regional Matchup Predictions
Tippecanoe v. Kettering Archbishop Alter (Spoiler Alert: A big upset could be dealt with Cincinnati Archbishop McNicholas defeating Tippecanoe in districts)
Logan Elm v. Urbana (Spoiler Alert: Unioto over Logan Elm)

Division Two Regional Finals
Region 5
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Salem
Region 6
Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
Region 7
Mansfield Madison Comprehensive v. Toledo Central Catholic
Region 8
Tippecanoe v. Urbana

CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: Olmsted Falls on a Mission

Division One Ohio Volleyball has been dominated by the private schools, particularly the powerful GGCL. In fact, in this decade a GGCL school has won the D1 Championship every year (the exception was in 2004 when Toledo St. Ursula garnered the title over a GGCL school). This season, while Ursuline, Mother of Mercy, and Mount Notre Dame, all can claim favored status in the hunt for the Division One crown, Olmsted Falls finds itself as a legitimate contender, finishing the season at #2 in both the Captain Brinn Poll and the Coaches' Poll and undefeated. Perhaps even more notable is the national attention received from ESPN RISE FAB 50 VOLLEYBALL RANKINGS, where the team is ranked #28 in the nation (Ursuline is ranked #13). After proving their mettle this season with wins over six current ranked teams (including two top-10 D1 teams in #8 Bishop Watterson and #10 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights), Coach Dawn Moses is prepping her team for a deep tournament run and hoping to achieve some big goals, though some remain a secret within the team.
"We are focusing on eveything including conditioning. We are going to take one game at a time," offered Moses, who in her 14th season at the helm of the Olmsted Falls team. "We have set our goals and now we are working toward achieveing those goals. Our practices will be centered on giving the extra effort, or should I say extra degree, all the time!"
Those goals have included going undefeated in their conference, which they achieved, and two other team goals which Moses won't share since the team set them privately. Perhaps keeping the team focused on one game at a time is more important during tournament time, since anything can happen. Last year, the team's season was cut short by a tough Amherst Steele team in a heartbreaking district final match.
"That was last year, and we cannot relive the experience. All we can do is learn from our mistakes and strive to get better," said Moses. "Although that match has probably remained in the back of their minds, it has been the off-season commitment of our parents, athletes, coaches and senior leadership that has had the most impact on this team."
Team is something Moses stresses. And it is quite a team she has.
"Our strengths include our outside attackers who have the ability to put the ball down. They include Lauren Whyte, a senior, who is leading the team in kills and Brittany Snider, a senior who is leading the team defensively in the back row while having the ability to kill the ball at anytime. Our middle attackers are such a threat that other teams have to be concerned with them, which therefor opens up one-on-one situations. Christine Peffer, a senior, and Corinne Manley , a junior, are leading the team in blocks and kill percentage. Dayna Roberts, a sophomore setter, is one of the best in the state at such a young age. Her ability to see the court and make every ball better assist our team in getting better everyday. Dayna has already placed herself on the school record board this season with 788 assists. Brooke Purvis is as steady as they come in the libero position and leads the team in receptions and digs. Rounding out this team is a core of senior and junior players that play very large roles in our success," said Moses.
Moses herself is no stranger to success during her tenure with Olmsted Falls. Her overall record while the varsity coach is 273-85. Her teams have won their sectional title in 13 of her 14 seasons and have six regional tournament appearances, where they finished as runners-up four times. In 2000, Moses went to her first and only final four as a head coach.
"In 2000, it was a team goal to make the final four, and we did," said Moses. "This year's team is aiming a little higher, and we will do our best to reach that goal."
Olmsted's mission begins with Berea on Saturday. If victorious, Midview or Medina awaits. Perhaps the mission gets tougher in potential matchups against Amherst Steele or Elyria in district finals. In regionals, if Olmsted Falls continues on, the path gets even rockier with ranked teams abounding like TSUA, Toledo Notre Dame, Rocky River Magnificat, Sylvania Southview, Bowling Green, North Royalton, and Findlay. But Moses has her team focusing on one match at time and believes if it is meant to be it will be a validation of all of their hard work and dedication to a sport she loves and her program excels at.
"Focus is the name of the game, and these ladies have been focused since of October of 2007. It is now time to raise the bar, and work harder in pursuit of our goals. Finishing is what we will attempt to do."

UNCERTAINTY REIGNS: CAPTAIN BRINN'S STATE VOLLEYBALL TOURNEY PREVIEW

Sectional matches are underway and in a few short weeks people will gather at The Nutter Center on the campus of Wright State University to see who will be crowned the 2008 State Volleyball Champions. It is an exciting time if you love high school volleyball, where some of the best girls' high school players year after year are featured, as Ohio consistently produces some of the top college recruits annually.
So, this begins Captain Brinn's State Volleyball Tournament Preview for 2008. We have been working on to extend our coverage and offer you something to talk about! One thing is for sure this season, while L.C.C. and Cincinnati Ursuline have pretty much dominated their respective divisions, they certainly aren't dominant and are vulnerable. Same goes for the state title hunts in Division 2 and Division 4, where any number of teams could walk away with the crown. Right now, all signs point to Tippecanoe in D2 and Jackson Center in D4, but there are plenty of spoilers in the mix to get in the way of the dreams of a state crown for these #1 teams. L.C.C. won't sneak up on anyone in D3 like they did last season. Certainly Albany Alexander has revenge on their mind after being beaten by the T-Birds in last year's D3 title match. In D1, Ursuline has state champion written all over them. And we have all come to expect a Cincinnati GGCL team winning the D1 title. After all, they have dominated this division year-after-year. But, for the first time in many years a non-private school has a fairly good shot at winning it all. Olmsted Falls has proven to be the real deal this season, and they should have a good chance at dethroning the GGCL's chokehold on the D1 title. D4's final four will likely look a lot like last year. We fully expect Newark Catholic, Norwalk St. Paul and Jackson Center to be there again, and the defending state champions Marion Local have an excellent chance at getting back, though New Bremen will have something to say about this. However, while Jackson Center is the favorite, the parity amongst all of these teams in the mix could make for an exciting time in D4.
Here is a look at some of what we are planning for our tournament coverage over the next few weeks beginning tonight!

• Later tonight: Read our exclusive interview with Olmsted Falls Head Coach Dawn Moses
• Later tonight: Check out our picks for the D1 and D2 Regional Tournaments
• Tomorrow: Check out our picks for the D3 and D4 Regional Tournaments
• Tomorrow: Read our exclusive interview with Tippecanoe Head Coach Pat Carus
• This weekend: Analysis of various tourney matches
• Next week: After regionals are set, check out our picks for the state final four and the state champions
• Next week: Read our exclusive interview and an inside look at the state volleyball with Dr. Deborah Moore, assistant commissioner of the OHSAA
• PLUS MORE THAT IS IN THE WORKS!

We invite you to join the social community at http://cbohiovarsity.ning.com and share your tourney pictures and videos. You can upload them straight to the community.
We also invite you to submit your regional tournament picks by emailing us at captainbrinn@gmail.com and we will post your picks!

Volleball Tourney Preview Coming Thursday!

Yes, it is the most wonderful time of the year when we at Captain Brinn love to make predictions and focus on Ohio High School Volleyball! We think you will be impressed with our coverage this year of the tourney and our content and invite you to participate by leaving comments and also joining the Captain Brinn Social Community and conversing and posting videos and photos from tourney games. The Captain Brinn Network is powered by you!
Starting on Thursday we will post our Division Previews and will also be posting an exclusive blog story and interview with Olmsted Falls' Coach Dawn Moses. Of course, we all know Olmsted Falls is undefeated and #2 in our poll. Check out the blog on Thursday for that story.
Next week, our tournament coverage continues with exclusive stories and interviews with Division 2 #1 Tippecanoe's head coach Patrick Carus. We also will be getting a behind-the-scenes preview and perspective straight from OHSAA Assistant Commissioner Dr. Deborah Moore! Plus, we have much, much more in the works! We go straight to the top now for our information and are bringing attention to girls' athletics in Ohio!
What do you want to see in our volleyball preview and tourney coverage? Post your suggestions or email us at captainbrinn@gmail.com.

Captain Brinn's Division 1 Rankings: Final

1. Cincinnati Ursuline
2. Olmsted Falls
3. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
4. Dublin Coffman
5. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy
6. Pickerington North
7. Dayton Chaminade-Julienne
8. Columbus Bishop Watterson
9. Lebanon
10. Brecksville-Boradview Heights
11. Findlay
12. Olentangy
13. Marysville
14. Toledo Notre Dame
15. Rocky River Magnificat
16. Hudson
17. Stow Munroe Falls
18. Harrison
19. Bowling Green
20. Sylvania Southview
21. Mentor
22. Lakota East
23. Mason
24. Kings Mills Kings
25. Cloverleaf
26. Toledo St. Ursula Academy
27. Wadsworth
28. Elyria
29. Centerville
30. North Royalton

Team of the Week: Olmsted Falls may be the first non-Cincy Catholic team to win the state championship in years!
Team on the Rise: Toledo Notre Dame was on a free fall that was halted by winning the Toledo City League Championship and defeating #6 Toledo Central Catholic.
Team on the Decline: Sylvania Southview looked for real earlier in the season, but ended the season on a downward slide.

Captain Brinn's Division 2 Rankings: Final

1. Tipp City Tippecanoe
2. Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
3. Wooster Triway
4. Parma Padua Franciscan
5. Kenston
6. Toledo Central Catholic
7. Salem
8. Columbus Bishop Hartley
9. Hubbard
10. Mentor Lake Catholic
11. Sunbury Big Walnut
12. Cincinnati McNicholas
13. Field
14. Canal Fulton Northwest
15. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
16. Cincinnati Indian Hill
17. Celina
18. Holy Name
19. Kettering Archbishop Alter
20. Warsaw River View
21. Sheridan
22. Indian Lake
23. Cincinnati Wyoming
24. Tiffin Columbian
25. Little Miami
26. Urbana
27. Crestwood
28. Buckeye
29. Geneva
30. Brookside

Team of the Week: Tipp City Tippecanoe capped off a perfect season and is the favorite for the Division 2 state title.
Team on the Rise: Mansfield Madison has positioned themselves in the hunt for the title, finishing impressively at 20-2.
Team on the Decline: Indian Lake's season is over, but they had a great regular season that just couldn't overcome the injury bug.

Captain Brinn's Division 3 Rankings: Final

1. Lima Central Catholic
2. Albany Alexander
3. West Salem Northwestern
4. Smithville
5. Frankfort Adena
6. Gilmour Academy
7. Orrville
8. Monroe Central
9. Berkshire
10. Rockford Parkway
11. Huron
12. Milan Edison
13. Columbus Bishop Ready
14. Heath
15. Fredericktown
16. Columbus Grove
17. Marion Pleasant
18. Versailles
19. Buckeye Trail
20. Tuscarawas Valley
21. Anna
22. Cincinnati Roger Bacon
23. Riverdale
24. Metamora Evergreen
25. St. Henry
26. New Middletown Springfield
27. Middletown Madison
28. West Jefferson
29. Tri-County North
30. Jonathon Alder

Team of the Week: Albany Alexander took Marion Pleasant to the wood shed on Saturday and have quietly only lost once all season long.
Team on the Rise: Orrville got a big win heading into tourney over former #2 in D2 Wooster Triway.
Team on the Decline: Versailles closed their regular season with losses to Parkway (okay loss) and Coldwater (bad loss)

Captain Brinn's Division 4 Rankings: Final

1. Jackson Center
2. Newark Catholic
3. Norwalk St. Paul
4. New Bremen
5. Marion Local
6. Sidney Lehman Catholic
7. Hopewell-Loudon
8. Leipsic
9. Buckeye Central
10. Tuscarawas Central Catholic
11. Sycamore Mohawk
12. Minster
13. Convoy Crestview
14. New Riegel
15. Kidron Central Christian
16. Gilead Christian
17. Fostoria St. Wendelin
18. Kalida
19. South Webster
20. Cornerstone Christian
21. Monroeville
22. Tiffin Calvert
23. Lordstown
24. Edon
25. South Charleston Southeastern
26. Fort Loramie
27. Delphos St. John's
28. Lutheran East
29. Delphos Jefferson
30. Jackson-Milton

Team of the Week: While New Bremen fell to D1 Olentangy Saturday in the championship match of an invitational, they also managed to defeat their nemesis in the MAC, Marion Local to win the Midwest Athletic Conference.
Team on the Rise: Hopewell-Loudon is the best of the MAL, a league full of strong teams this season, including Mohawk and others. They are on quite the streak as well.
Team on the Decline: Will the real Minster please stand up? Good wins this season, and then very, very bad ones.

A Captain Brinn Exclusive: Dave Reinhart Opens Up About The Hopewell-Loudon Dynasty

A Look Inside Mastermind Coach and Mentor Dave Reinhart

--Coach talks about his experience with Hopewell-Loudon’s Dynasty

by Keane, Captain Brinn's Ohio Varsity Contributer

Bascom, Ohio is known for it’s rich farmland and their historic Native American heritage. One thing Ohio volleyball savants know for this Bascom area is the rich volleyball tradition it has employed over the years. For such a small, rural school, just how did this high school manage to win 5 state titles in a row starting in the late 90s? Well, that has captivated not only myself, but many other high school volleyball coaches, programs, pure fans, and players. I decided to dive into this myth and get behind the figurehead who started this amazing run. I took the time to speak with none other than legendary head coach Dave Reinhart.

Coach Reinhart started his coaching stint very early in the Tiffin area, probably earlier than some believe.

I asked, “Coach how did you get interested and get started coaching volleyball? Also, what year did you start coaching volleyball at Hopewell-Loudon?” “I started coaching in CYO for St Patrick’s in Bascom way early. Over a 5 year stretch we won 89 matches in a row. I then coached Junior High at Hopewell-Loudon for 2 years. I did both 7^th & 8^th grade, and we went undefeated both of those years with both teams. I started coaching varsity at HL in 1983,” Reinhart stated.
From 1983 to 1994 Coach Reinhart was building his base for success. In 1994, he earned his first trip to the state final four where he met up with another coaching legend from St Henry in DeDe Stoner. St Henry went 26-1 that year in route to their 4^th state title. Many programs including large division one schools took notice of what Hopewell-Loudon was doing. It wasn’t long before Hopewell-Loudon took over as the small school dynasty and became the precipice for ultimate success, but it wasn’t without some setbacks.

Coach Reinhart and company went on to return to the final four the very next year in 1995 only to fall to St Henry once again in the state championship match. Hopewell returned again in 1996 but ended up with the same result falling yet again to this huge MAC power in St Henry in the state-semi game. 1997 was the year Hopewell-Loudon got things going and ripped off 5 straight state titles (97, 98, 99, 00, 01). Only one school had ever won 5 straight titles in OHSAA history (Cincinnati St Ursula Academy claimed an outstanding 6 from 93-98).

I asked Reinhart, “What do you think was your formula for success at the high school level at such a small school?” “Hard work and work ethic by both the coach and the players. I think a lot of my success came form our youth programs that started in 4th grade and was run by myself on Sundays. I also started a strengthening program my first year for everyone including my youth teams in the younger grades,” replied Reinhart.

“Coach Reinhart, looking back on Hopewell’s success, did your prefer to run a 6-2 or 5-1?” He stated, “I would say a 5-1 because it takes a lot of extra time and training to become a next level setter. You are lucky to have one player in your program that will commit to the extra hard work and training.”

While it was truly amazing to see what Dave Reinhart and his teams were able to accomplish, many coaches still have ideas or thoughts about other things they wish they would have done.

I asked, “Looking back on your success, is there anything else you wish you could have conquered or achieved?” Dave stated, “I wished I would of expected more out of my teams in my first 10 years. I learned that if you don't expect it out of your players you will never get it.”

“Winning 5 state titles in a row definitely laid claim to a dynasty label for the Chieftains of Hopewell Loudon. What are your thoughts on this accomplishment? Does it seem surreal to have won that many in a row considering the talent level in your division?” “To win one was unreal but 5 was beyond my dreams," he stated. "We had made it to state 3 years in a row before we won, which I was proud of. I guess it was just a matter of the players believing in them selves and after that it just snow balled. We always had players ready to step in when a big name player would graduate.”
I think most can remember the names of DiDi Reynolds, Snyder, Emily Clouse, Susie Norris, Kim Norris, Lauren Kelbley just to name a few. It seemed like Hopewell imported these girls. They had height, extreme talent, strong mentality, and a good work ethic. With all these star-studded players over the years, I asked Coach Reinhart,

“While I'm sure each team holds a great value to you, is there any player or multiple players that stand out to you? If so, why?” “There are so many big names players that I remember, but for everyone of them I remember, I also remember the great role players who really helped make everyone’s dreams come true," he stated. "The studs are great but it was how the teams played that helped Hopewell-Loudon become a so called dynasty.”

I asked, “Out of all of your spectacular teams including your undefeated teams you coached at Hopewell, which team do you think stood out the most as far as talent and overall ability?” “Each team I coached had their character. I have never picked a favorite because to me they all were special,” stated Reinhart.

“While I'm sure the memories are endless, is there any one state title that was more special to you than the others Dave?” “I guess the time we beat St Henry in the semifinals. They beat us 15-7 and were up on us 9-2 and we came back and won 15-9 and then won the 3rd game.”

Considering the numerous undefeated runs in their MAL conference, one had to wonder what it was like for Hopewell-Loudon night in and night out to perform their A game with the big target they had on their backs. Also, the student support in the MAL had to make it tough for the Bascom program.

I asked Coach Reinhart, “Where was the most difficult atmosphere to play in? Which gym was the toughest?” “I feel playing at Seneca East and Calvert gyms because they were so small and loud!”

I asked, “Looking back, what do you feel was the most difficult part of coaching? What was the most enjoyable?” Coach Reinhart answered, “Cutting players and dealing with some parents in the early part of my coaching career. I had 2 parents run for school board to have me fired. At one of the meetings I was suppose to be hired but a positive board member was not there so the vote was 2-2 to hire so they tabled it and hired me at the next meeting. So some things never change. The most enjoyable was the last 9 years with no parent problems. All the parents were very supportive.”

I wonder how those parents feel now? I think Dave Reinhart proved he knew what it took to become not only a state championship coach, but a coach of a small school dynasty that has never been duplicated.

Finally, my discussion with Coach Reinhart focused on what he is working on currently since his retirement from Hopewell-Loudon.

I asked, “What are your future plans for the sport of volleyball? Are you still helping with the Black Swamp Club?” “Am I helping? I built the 3 court facility and I run it year round for volleyball only. My goal was 4 years ago when I built the facilty. It was to make Blackwamp into the strongest club in the OVR. The last two years our teams have won over 50 club tournaments, which is two as many as the closest club has won. There are clubs who have stronger national teams then us but no one is close to us overall. But Blackswamp Volleyball Club…that’s a whole different story” proclaimed Coach Reinhart.

Winning one state title is a huge feat. Winning 5 is even larger--Winning these 5 in a row is even more outstanding and one that may never be duplicated again. Dave Reinhart is an Ohio coaching legend whether he feels that way or not. He did what many other coaches dream of and never will be able to do. He did this at a small school with a limited pool of girls and yet still his teams performed at such a high level that he left many of us in awe. As you can tell from his current Blackswamp Volleyball Club performance, the man’s got a formula for success!

Dave Reinhart coached Hopewell-Loudon to 5 state championships in a row, 8 state appearances in a row, and 15 regional appearances in a row. He now is the director of the successful Black Swamp Volleyball Club. Visit their website at http://blackswampvolleyball.com

Just when you thought they were down, here comes St. Henry

By "Keane"
New Captain Brinn Blog Contributer
What started out as a highly anticipated volleyball season for this Midwest Athletic Conference foe, soon fell apart. However, tradition, coaching, and athleticism has now righted the ship for the St Henry Redskins. Winners of 7 in a row have now caught the attention of most in D3.
St Henry is arguably the best small school volleyball program in the state of Ohio for the past 20 years. Currently, they have been performing substandard for them. St Henry is used to getting to the final four and winning state titles as well as MAC titles. However, St Henry has sort of fallen on hard times. A 10-16 record last year ended up being a regional birth season where they fell to D3 power Huron in straight sets. The Redskins had all eyes set on a repeat regional run again this season. They had a great summer playing and defeating some great teams including the tough test at the Maumee Bay tournament. They started out strong in the early season defeating a good D1 Centerville (13-7) team. They followed that up with a tight loss to Cincinnati Mt Notre Dame by the scores of 27-25 and 25-22. They then loss to D1 power Chaminade-Julienne in that same tournament in two.
Then, the Redskin train came to a hault losing to rival Celina, Delphos St Johns, suffered a shalacking to Albany Alexander, two losses to Marion Local, Lehman Catholic, New Bremen, and Orrville. At that time, St Henry was sitting in unchartered waters boasting a 3-10 record. This was something Head Coach Lori Schwieterman and the St Henry community just never experience.
Maybe they had enough of that. Now, St Henry has ripped off 7 straight wins and are showing glimpses of what many had thought would be a traditional St Henry season. They have great wins over D3 powers Rockford Parkway and Versailles as well as New Knoxville, Piqua, and Coldwater.
In short, St Henry is back and cannot be taken lightly by anyone in the D3 tournament. If the same holds true again this year, it appears St Henry will take on Rockford Parkway in the district semi-final assuming these two get the seeds (althought Coldwater could sneek in for the 2 seed as they stand at 11-9 compared to a 10-10 St Henry mark). At the end of the day, I don't want St Henry anywhere near me in the tournament brackets. They are tall, athletic, well coached, and can beat just about anyone on any given day!

Captain Brinn's Division 4 Rankings: Week Six

1. Jackson Center
2. Marion Local
3. Newark Catholic
4. Norwalk St. Paul
5. New Bremen
6. Sidney Lehman Catholic
7. Minster
8. Tuscarawas Central Catholic
9. Leipsic
10. Hopewell-Loudon
11. New Riegel
12. Buckeye Central
13. Convoy Crestview
14. Kidron Central Christian
15. Fostoria St. Wendelin
16. Kalida
17. Gilead Christian
18. South Webster
19. Monroeville
20. Cornerstone Christian
21. South Charleston Southeastern
22. Tiffin Calvert
23. Lutheran East
24. Jackson-Milton
25. Lordstown
Five to Watch:
26. Edon
27. Cincinnati Christian
28. Delphos Jefferson
29. Franklin Monroe
30. Fort Loramie

Team of the Week: New Bremen is the the team of the week after knocking off Lehman Catholic and Versailles for two big, significant wins. The matchup that will prove just how good they are will come Tuesday against #2 Marion Local!
Team on the Rise: Kidron Central Christian might be the sleeper team of D4, as the continue to quietly roll off wins.
Team on the Decline: Delphos Jefferson nearly knocked off D3 Columbus Grove, falling 18-16 in the fifth game. That's an okay loss, but then they got easily beat by Convoy Crestview and then lost to Leipsic this week proving they aren't quite ready for primetime.

Captain Brinn's Division 3 Rankings: Week Six

1. Lima Central Catholic
2. West Salem Northwestern
3. Smithville
4. Gilmour Academy
5. Albany Alexander
6. Frankfort Adena
7. Monroe Central
8. Berkshire
9. Columbus Bishop Ready
10. Columbus Grove
11. Rockford Parkway
12. Orrville
13. Versailles
14. Marion Pleasant
15. Fredericktown
16. Huron
17. Milan Edison
18. Heath
19. Buckeye Trail
20. Cincinnati Roger Bacon
21. Middletown Madison
22. Archbold
23. Anna
24. Preble Shawnee
25. Tuscarawas Valley
Five to Watch:
26. Riverdale
27. West Jefferson
28. Tri-County North
29. Jonathon Alder
30. St. Henry

Team of the Week: West Salem Northwestern jumps up to #2 after getting revenge on Smithville and defeating their rivals.
Team on the Rise: No surprise (see my blog post tomorrow about this) that St. Henry, at 10-10, is back in the rankings and peaking at just the right time. Teams in tourney should worry that the Redskins have ripped off seven wins in a row, which included upsetting #11 Parkway.
Team on the Decline: Anna is a good team with no bad losses, but losing so many times lately is not good for their tourney prospects.

Captain Brinn's Division 2 Rankings: Week Six

1. Tipp City Tippecanoe
2. Wooster Triway
3. Kenston
4. Parma Padua Franciscan
5. Toledo Central Catholic
6. Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
7. Salem
8. Columbus Bishop Hartley
9. Sunbury Big Walnut
10. Hubbard
11. Mentor Lake Catholic
12. Canal Fulton Northwest
13. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
14. Celina
15. Field
16. Indian Lake
17. Cincinnati Indian Hill
18. Cincinnati McNicholas
19. Kettering Alter
20. Little Miami
21. Tiffin Columbian
22. Warsaw River View
23. Cincinnati Wyoming
24. Buckeye
25. Crestwood
Five to Watch:
26. Holy Name
27. Urbana
28. Brookside
29. Sheridan
30. Shelby

Team of the Week: Kenston had a good week that included a win over D3 ranked Huron. They move up in the rankings and are looking more and more like a title contender.
Team on the Rise: Several teams in D2 had good weeks with big wins, but D2 had the least movement. Alter won against D3 #1 and previously unbeaten LCC, while Cincinnati McNicholas also continues to look pretty good.
Team on the Decline: Cincinnati Wyoming has been losing a lot lately and is sliding down the rankings.

Captain Brinn's Division 1 Rankings: Week Six

1. Cincinnati Ursuline
2. Olmsted Falls
3. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
4. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy
5. Dublin Coffman
6. Pickerington North
7. Columbus Bishop Watterson
8. Dayton Chaminade-Julienne
9. Lebanon
10. Brecksville-Broadsview Heights
11. Rocky River Magnificat
12. Findlay
13. Marysville
14. Sylvania Southview
15. Mentor
16. Olentangy
17. Stow Munroe Falls
18. Hudson
19. Lakota East
20. Harrison
21. Elyria
22. Centerville
23. Toledo Notre Dame
24. Mason
25. Kings Mills Kings
Five to Watch:
26. Cloverleaf
27. Bowling Green
28. Anthony Wayne
29. Toledo St. Ursula
30. Wadsworth

Team of the Week: At this point in the season, the favorite for the state title is very clear: Cincinnati Ursuline, a team that goes against tough competition every night and has remained unbeaten.
Team on the Rise: Rocky River Magnificat has pulled off some good wins as of late, which more than makes up for their mid-season slump.
Team on the Decline: If Toledo St. Ursula keeps losing and looking bad, they will join CSUA out of the rankings, and we haven't not had a SUA in the rankings in the history of our poll!