The Art of Coaching: Unpacking Central Ohio's 2025-26 Boys Coach of the Year Contenders
What does it take to be a great coach? Is it the trophies, the winning streaks, or the ability to transform raw talent into championship material? As I dive into the contenders for Central Ohio’s 2025-26 Boys Coach of the Year, I’m struck by the diversity of their achievements. Each candidate has a story that goes beyond the scoreboard, and that’s what makes this selection so fascinating.
The Architects of Victory
One thing that immediately stands out is the sheer variety of sports represented. From track and field to golf, these coaches have mastered their domains in ways that defy comparison. Take Ryan Borland of Big Walnut, for instance. Personally, I think his achievement is particularly noteworthy because leading a track and field team to its first state championship isn’t just about speed or strength—it’s about precision, strategy, and the ability to peak at the right moment. What many people don’t realize is that track and field is often a sport of inches and seconds, where a coach’s role in fine-tuning technique can be the difference between gold and silver.
On the other hand, Kyle Goodrich’s repeat championship in swimming and diving at St. Charles speaks to consistency and long-term vision. In my opinion, sustaining success is harder than achieving it once. Goodrich’s ability to maintain dominance in a sport that demands both physical and mental resilience is a testament to his coaching philosophy. If you take a step back and think about it, swimming is as much about mental toughness as it is about physical prowess, and Goodrich clearly understands how to cultivate both.
The Comeback Stories
What makes this particularly fascinating is the resurgence narratives woven into these candidacies. Noah Creagh at Whetstone soccer has breathed new life into a program that had long been overlooked. Guiding the Braves to their first district championship isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a cultural shift for the school. From my perspective, this kind of turnaround requires more than just tactical brilliance; it demands the ability to inspire and rebuild confidence in a team that may have doubted itself.
Similarly, Brett Norris’s journey with Hilliard Bradley basketball is a story of perseverance. Leading the Jaguars to their first state tournament appearance and a runner-up finish is no small feat, especially in a sport as competitive as basketball. What this really suggests is that Norris has a knack for identifying and nurturing talent, even in a program that hasn’t historically been a powerhouse.
The Legacy Builders
Brian Kennedy’s tenure at Watterson football is a masterclass in legacy building. A 30-game winning streak and consecutive state championships? That’s the stuff of legend. But what’s even more impressive is his 23-year commitment to the program. In an era where coaches often jump ship for greener pastures, Kennedy’s loyalty is rare. Personally, I think this speaks to a deeper understanding of what it means to build a program—it’s not just about winning games, but about creating a culture that endures.
Wes Schroeder at Olentangy Orange football and Brad Sparling at Dublin Jerome golf both achieved state championships in just their second seasons. A detail that I find especially interesting is how quickly they’ve made their mark. This raises a deeper question: Is it better to build slowly over time, or can immediate success be just as impactful? Schroeder and Sparling’s achievements suggest that sometimes, the right coach in the right place can accelerate a program’s trajectory in ways that defy expectations.
The Departing Hero
Mike Sandman’s story is bittersweet. Leading New Albany baseball to a state championship in his final season is the kind of ending coaches dream of. But his resignation to become a dean of students at Utica Middle School adds a layer of complexity. What many people don’t realize is that coaching is often a stepping stone to other roles in education, and Sandman’s transition highlights the multifaceted impact coaches can have on their communities.
The Bigger Picture
If you take a step back and think about it, these coaches aren’t just winning games—they’re shaping lives. Whether it’s Borland’s focus on individual excellence, Goodrich’s emphasis on consistency, or Kennedy’s commitment to legacy, each coach brings a unique philosophy to the table. What this really suggests is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coaching. Success comes in many forms, and the best coaches are those who can adapt their strategies to the needs of their athletes and programs.
My Takeaway
Personally, I think the Coach of the Year title should go beyond just the wins and losses. It should recognize the coach who has made the most profound impact—not just on their team, but on their school and community. From my perspective, Brian Kennedy’s long-term dedication and unprecedented success at Watterson make him a strong contender. But I’d also argue that Ryan Borland’s ability to deliver a first-ever state championship in track and field deserves serious consideration.
Ultimately, what makes this selection so difficult is that each candidate has a compelling case. And that, in itself, is a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of Central Ohio’s coaching community.
Final Thought: Coaching is as much an art as it is a science. These contenders remind us that behind every great team is a leader who understands the power of vision, hard work, and inspiration. Who will take the title? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Central Ohio’s athletic future is in very capable hands.
