The 2025-26 Central Ohio High School Sports Awards have unveiled the top athletes, coaches, and teams, with a special focus on the Girls Coach of the Year. This year's nominations showcase the remarkable achievements of coaches across various sports, each leaving their mark on the Central Ohio sports landscape.
One standout candidate is Josh Blakeman, who led the Circleville basketball team to their first regional championship and a Division IV state semifinal. Blakeman's leadership and strategic prowess resulted in a 23-5 record and the team's fifth district title. His ability to turn around a program in just one season is a testament to his coaching prowess and strategic mindset.
Tim Bosco, another exceptional coach, guided the Olentangy Liberty lacrosse team to their third consecutive Division I state championship. Bosco's seven-year tenure with the program ended on a high note, with a 124-32 record and a 14-game winning streak. His strategic vision and ability to foster a winning culture have solidified his legacy as one of the top coaches in Central Ohio.
Ryan Callihan, the head coach of the Gahanna Lincoln cross-country team, has been instrumental in the team's success. In his fifth season, the team achieved league and Division I regional championships, culminating in their first state title. Callihan's strategic approach and ability to develop a cohesive team have been key to the team's dominance in the region.
Jared Dombrowski, the head coach of the Upper Arlington girls soccer team, has also made significant strides. In his second year with the program, Dombrowski led the team to the Division I state championship. His strategic vision and ability to build a cohesive unit have been instrumental in the team's success, building on his previous achievements with New Albany.
Charlie Duncan, the head coach of the Danville softball team, has also made a lasting impact. With a starting lineup featuring five freshmen and senior pitcher Addy Bocock, the team secured the Division VI state championship. Duncan's strategic approach and ability to develop a cohesive unit have resulted in a 126-35 record over six seasons, with three district titles.
Katie Hill, a 2008 graduate of Newark Catholic, has also made a significant impact as a coach. In her first season as head coach, Hill led the Green Wave to a 27-0 season and the Division VII state title. Her strategic vision and ability to build a cohesive unit have been key to the team's success, drawing on her own athletic experience.
Kevin Moody, Central Ohio's all-time winningest softball coach, has also made a significant impact. With a 726-310 record over 41 seasons, Moody led the Hilliard Bradley Jaguars to their first Division I state championship. His strategic approach and ability to build a cohesive unit have resulted in a remarkable winning record.
Terri Simonetti Frost, the head coach of the Thomas Worthington field hockey team, has also made a lasting impact. With a 423-85-32 record over 27 seasons, Simonetti Frost has led the team to nine championships, including a state-record four in a row. Her strategic vision and ability to build a cohesive unit have solidified her legacy as one of the top coaches in Central Ohio.
In conclusion, the Girls Coach of the Year nominations for the 2025-26 Central Ohio High School Sports Awards showcase the remarkable achievements of coaches across various sports. Each coach has left their mark on the Central Ohio sports landscape, fostering a culture of excellence and achievement. Their strategic vision, leadership, and ability to build cohesive units have been instrumental in their success, inspiring future generations of athletes and coaches.
