2006 SHS Volleyball Team.

Four individual athletes, two teams, one coach, and the annual Joe Kelley Spirit of Salem Award winner comprise the Salem High School Athletic Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023.

The individuals are Jim Ciotti (Class of 1969, baseball); Lou Angleo (Class of 1999, football); Jarin Heath (Class of 2006, football); and Anthony Shivers (Class of 2013, track and field. The teams are the 2006 and 2007 volleyball teams, while the coach is Nancy Miller (1982-90, girls track).

Robert (Bo) Whinnery (Class of 1973) has been selected with the Joe Kelley Spirit of Salem Award.

The induction dinner and ceremony will be held on Thursday Aug. 17 at Salem High School. The dinner will start at 6:30 p.m., with a social hour held prior and the ceremony to follow dinner. The event will mark the 18th class of the Hall of Fame, an independent, nonprofit entity guided by a committee of local citizens.

Reservations can be made through email at shs.athletichof@gmail.com or by calling (330) 831-7207. Cost for the dinner is $35 for adults and $25 for children ages 2-10. Reservations will be accepted through Aug. 10 or until the event is sold out.

Advertisement opportunities for the program of the induction dinner are also available. For more information, email the address above.

All inductees are displayed in the kiosks of the main lobby of the Salem John A. Cabas gymnasium. There is also a Salem High School Athletic Hall of Fame facebook page and an upcoming individual website that is devoted to honor all inductees. Nominations for the Hall of Fame are accepted from the public each year and can be submitted via email or through the facebook page.

Following are the career highlights of the 2023 selections, who will also be recognized at the season opening home football game at Sebo Stadium on Friday, Aug. 8 against Poland:

Jim Ciotti (SHS Class of 1969)

Jim Ciotti’s name resonates deeply within the realm of Salem baseball, representing a remarkable journey filled with triumphs, milestones, and a legacy that stretches from the inception of the program. From his earliest days as a member of the inaugural baseball team to his professional career and beyond, Ciotti’s passion for the sport and his unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the game.

Born with a love for baseball coursing through his veins, Ciotti enjoyed a rewarding Salem junior baseball experience. Playing for youth coaches such as Art Votaw and Hank Lodge, Ciotti was able to improve his baseball skills. The biggest influence on Jim’s young career, however, was Bill Galchick (2010 SHS Athletic HOF Spirit of Salem recipient), whom he credits for helping develop his future pitching career.

Ciotti’s high school journey began in 1967 as a sophomore when he became a proud member of Salem High School’s first varsity baseball team, which was managed by Chet Tetlow. Ciotti’s talent and commitment were evident, and he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the field. In his high school pitching debut, Ciotti struck out 12 in a 4-0 win over Minerva.

As a junior, Ciotti solidified his place as a rising star, showcasing his skills as a winning pitcher by recording six victories for the team, which finished the season with an 8-8 record. He opened the season with a one-hit, ten-strikeout performance against Springfield. Ciotti’s impact extended beyond individual achievements, as he played a pivotal role in securing the first varsity baseball tournament victory, etching his name in Salem’s athletic history. Pitching a complete game with eight strikeouts, Ciotti also made a major contribution with his bat. With the game tied 3-3 heading into the last inning, the junior led off with a hit and scored the winning run.

During the summer of 1968, Ciotti was a member of the 1968 WSOM-Lease Drug Class D state championship team, which holds the distinction of being the first state championship team in the history of Salem Junior Baseball.

It was during his senior year that Ciotti’s exceptional abilities truly shone. Named the team’s Most Valuable Player, he spearheaded their successes, boasting a 6-2 record on the mound and accounting for each of the team’s wins in a 6-4 season. The three-year varsity letter winner was credited with winning 79% of the varsity team’s victories over his career.

His exceptional performance and dedication caught the attention of scouts, and in 1969, Ciotti’s talent was recognized by the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals selected him in the 23rd round of the MLB June Amateur Draft, a testament to his remarkable skills and potential. Ciotti, at the age of 17, signed a professional baseball contract, becoming the only Salem graduate to embark on a professional baseball career directly after high school since the inception of the varsity baseball era, a legacy that has endured for over fifty years. Ciotti appeared in 10 games and went 3-1 in the Florida Gulf Coast League with a 0.75 ERA over 36 innings (three starts). His third start was a complete game win over the Minnesota Twins farm team. Only needing 67 pitches, he held them to three hits and retired the last 11 batters he faced.

The following summer, Ciotti’s birthdate was selected in the military draft lottery, essentially ending his professional career. The standout pitcher enlisted in the Air Force reserves and served his country for eight years. Upon completion of his military obligations and after suffering from back issues and being released by the Cardinals, Ciotti enrolled at Kent State-Salem. He became the first player/manager for the Kent State-Salem baseball team, guiding and inspiring a new generation of players with his wealth of experience and knowledge. Notably, Ciotti pitched a perfect game, a historic moment in which he led his team to victory over Malone College, impressively striking out 13 batters.

After completing his college degree, Ciotti taught and coached in Ravenna for over 30 years. He has played baseball at the senior level for many years. His Springfield 65-and-over team has won five consecutive titles, and last season he became the first player in league history to win the triple crown. The former Quaker standout, who joins lone classmate George Spack in the Salem High School Athletic Hall of Fame (2011), has also played in the Roy Hobbs World Series in Fort Myers, Florida. Jim lives in Salem with his wife Renee. They have four adult children, Michael, Steven, Jennifer, and Matthew, and eight grandchildren.

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Lou Angelo (SHS Class of 1999)

Known for his versatility as a three-sport athlete, Lou Angelo excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. However, it was on the football field that he earned numerous accolades and set several school records during his time as a four-year letter winner for the Quaker football team.

Angelo played quarterback during a time when passing the ball was not as common or prevalent as it is today. Despite this, he made a significant impact on the field. As a sophomore, Angelo, nicknamed “Gator,” started all ten games for the Quakers, demonstrating his skills as both a quarterback and a standout defensive back. He threw for 595 yards, rushed for 369 yards, and scored five touchdowns. His performance earned him All-Metro Athletic Conference honorable mention recognition.

During his junior year, Angelo faced some early challenges due to a deep thigh bruise that kept him out of the starting lineup in the 1997 season opener against West Branch. However, he quickly recovered and showcased his talent in subsequent games. In a Week 3 home win over East Liverpool, Angelo made history by setting a new school record for the longest pass completion, throwing an 84-yard touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Mike DeBarr. He threw for a career-high 196 yards and three touchdowns in that game. Angelo’s breakout game came the following week when he passed for 315 yards and two touchdowns, setting a new school record for passing yards in a single game by surpassing Sean Kirkland’s 300 yards in 1985. He also displayed his rushing abilities by accumulating nearly 100 yards and two rushing touchdowns in a Week 7 win at Howland. Angelo continued to make his mark by setting yet again the school record for longest pass completion, an 85-yard touchdown strike to junior wide receiver Matt O’ Brian in a Week 8 loss to Canfield. The completion was coincidentally his 12th touchdown pass of the season, breaking the school record previously held by Mark Berger (1981) and Jason Papic (1993). In a Week 10 blowout win over Girard, Angelo threw for 230 yards and four touchdowns against the top-rated pass defense in the league. More importantly, he officially set the record for passing yards in a season with 1496 yards, surpassing the previous record of 1355 set by Berger in 1981. The junior finished the year with 18 touchdown passes.

Angelo’s arm also helped DeBarr collect the most receiving yards in a season (614) in school history, passing Rich Huffman (542) from 1985. O’ Brian also broke the previous mark set in 1985 with 546 total receiving yards. Furthermore, the dynamic duo of DeBarr and O’ Brian each finished with seven receiving touchdowns apiece, tying the school record held by SHS Athletic HOF Class of 2015 member Corey Belaney (1993 season) and Steve Strabala (1982 season).

Under head coach David Janofa, the team finished with a record of 6-4 (3-3 in the MAC). It was only the football program’s sixth winning season since 1961 and was the highest scoring team in the history of Salem football, averaging 34.2 points per game (32.4 ppg in 1959).

Angelo received personal accolades and was named MAC Offensive Player of the Year and Morning Journal Player of the Year. He was also selected First Team All-Conference, First Team All-County, First Team Division II NEO-All District, and Division II All-Ohio Special Mention.

In his senior year, Angelo led the Quakers to a significant victory over their rival West Branch, ending a 12-year drought without a win against them. In that game, Angelo scored the lone Quaker fourth quarter touchdown with a 27-yard run and helped guide his team to a 21-19 win, the lone regular season loss the Warriors experienced that season. Despite losing one of his star receivers, Matt O’Brian, to a devastating season-ending ACL injury in the first play of the rivalry game, Angelo continued to break records and have a remarkable season.

In Week 2, he threw his 21st career passing touchdown, breaking the previous school record held by Jim Callahan (1949-50). The following week, he eclipsed the career passing yards record held by Scott Cody (2389 yards in 1966-68) in a 29-22 win over East Liverpool. With the team 3-0 and ranked seventh in the first Division II State AP poll of the season, the Quakers stumbled against unbeaten Niles, 28-7. The Quakers responded with a 41-7 home win against Liberty, their eighth win out of their last 10 tries at Reilly Stadium. In this game, Angelo made an impact on the defensive side of the football by breaking another school record, a 99-yard interception return for a touchdown. Offensively, he threw three touchdown passes on the night, all to talented receiver Mike DeBarr.

The following week, a matchup at Poland, ranked fifth in the state in Division III, resulted in a 31-19 loss. Following the tough loss, Salem improved to 5-2 with a 58-20 win over Howland. The win featured yet another record-breaking performance from Angelo, who this time tied the school record with four touchdown passes in a game and became the first Quaker to amass 3000 yards of total offense in a career. The game also featured DeBarr breaking the school record for career receiving touchdowns (12), previously held by Steve Strabala (1980-81). Looking for their first consecutive winning seasons since 1972 and 1973, the Quakers stumbled down the stretch and finished 5-5. Angelo completed his stellar prep career by setting the then career school records for most passing yards (3385) and most passing touchdowns (30). He also helped DeBarr graduate with the most receiving yards (1179) in school history to go along with the career receiving touchdown record.

Alongside his football accomplishments, Angelo also excelled in basketball and baseball. In basketball, he was a key contributor on a team that achieved its first winning season in six years during his junior year. He later served as a team captain the following year. In baseball, Angelo played a vital role in the team’s district championship win, a historic first for the school, during his senior year.

Following his successful high school career, the 6-1 195-pound quarterback received a full athletic scholarship to play football at Temple University. He later transferred to Youngstown State University to continue his football career. Angelo is the first member of the class of 1999 to be inducted into the Salem High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Currently, Angelo resides in Trinity, Florida, with his wife Robin and daughters Isabella and Francesca. He owns and operates a property maintenance and lawn business.

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Jarin Heath (SHS Class of 2006)

Being widely regarded as one of the best pure athletes in the history of Salem High School is quite a compliment. Throughout his high school athletic career, Jarin Heath left an indelible mark on the football field, basketball court, and baseball diamond, showcasing his exceptional skills, versatility, and playmaking ability.

Heath’s varsity football journey, under head coach Doug Phillips, began during his sophomore year when he quickly established himself as a standout wide receiver. On a team finishing with a 5-5 record, the first .500 season or better since 1998, Heath’s individual performance was promising. He caught 26 passes for 262 yards and scored three touchdowns during the season. Notably, he had a standout game against Canfield in Week 8, recording 12 catches for 113 yards and a touchdown. This season was particularly special for him as he had the opportunity to catch passes from his older brother, Landon Heath, a senior and inductee of the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

During his junior year, Heath continued to make strides and became a key player for the team. He began the season with a memorable performance, amassing seven catches, 127 yards, and two touchdowns in a victory over Marlington. Unfortunately, he missed a Week 3 game against rival West Branch due to a stress fracture but bounced back strongly the following week. In a home loss to Alliance, Heath caught eight passes for 125 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, he displayed his defensive prowess, recording two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. With the help of senior quarterback Mark Kolich, Heath finished the season with 36 catches, 536 yards, and six touchdowns. His exceptional performance earned him Honorable Mention All-State recognition. Moreover, his contributions played a pivotal role in leading the team to a 6-4 record, marking the first winning season since 1997.

In his senior year, Heath continued to shine as a football player and making his presence known on the field. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 170 pounds, he showcased his versatility and ability to impact games in various ways. In a remarkable 49-27 Week 3 victory against West Branch, he displayed one of the greatest individual performances in school history. Heath scored in four different ways during the game, including a 44-yard rush, a 43-yard reception, a 40-yard punt return (with the unit lined up in punt block formation), and a 50-yard interception return. This outstanding display of skill highlighted his athleticism and game-changing abilities. Throughout his senior year, he continued to demonstrate his playmaking skills. Heath set a still current school record with a 92-yard punt return for a touchdown in a win against Struthers during Week 5. In Week 8, he had an 87-yard interception return for a touchdown in a low scoring loss against Poland. In his final game in a Quaker uniform, the senior made a one-handed interception and returned it for a touchdown in a win over Campbell. He ended the season recording five interceptions, four of which he returned for touchdowns. He scored a touchdown in every game except one, finishing the season with 51 catches for 642 yards and five touchdowns with the help of senior quarterback Tom Jesko. Additionally, he concluded his high school football career with a total of 17 interceptions, a school record that still stands today. Offensively, Heath closed his stellar career with 113 catches, 1440 receiving yards, and 14 receptions for touchdowns.

Heath’s senior class left an enduring legacy, winning a total of 18 games over three years, the highest number of wins in a three-year span since 1960-1962. Despite missing the playoffs by less than one computer point, the team finished the season with a commendable 7-3 record, ranking 10th in Division III region 11. Individually, Heath earned First Team All-MAC honors and was named Division III First Team All-Ohio as a defensive back.

Aside from football, Heath also excelled on the basketball court and baseball fields, winning multiple varsity letters. As a junior, he played a vital role for head basketball coach Jeff Brink in leading the team to their first sectional championship since 1990. His contributions earned him Second Team All-MAC and All-County honors. In his senior year, many people will never forget his ever-present big playmaking ability when he hit a shot from half court at the buzzer to help defeat East Liverpool. The team achieved even more remarkable success, securing a 17-3 regular season record and winning the first district championship since 1976. The team’s impressive performance also led to their inclusion in the AP Top 15 rankings for the first time since 1980.

Heath’s remarkable athletic achievements earned him a well-deserved place among the elite athletes in school history. Moreover, the versatile athlete’s remarkable career has led him to join not only his brother in the Salem High School Athletic Hall of Fame, but also his mother, Debbie Janofa-Price (SHS Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2013), and uncle, David Janofa (SHS Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2010), as members of the hall of fame. He has also been inducted alongside his fellow classmate and teammate, Bryan Wright, a member of the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2019.

Beyond his high school accomplishments, Heath has embarked on a successful professional career and is currently employed by Warren Fabricating and Machining. He continues to reside in Salem.

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Anthony Shivers (SHS Class of 2013)

An accomplished athlete who achieved remarkable success in both the discus and shot put, Anthony Shivers is regarded as one of the most decorated athletes in the history of Salem High School. As a four-year letter winner in track, Shivers consistently displayed exceptional talent and determination.

In his sophomore year, Shivers became the Columbiana County Champion in the discus with a throw of 160 feet-5 inches. With the help of throwing coaches Bill and Jen Neapolitan and track head coach Todd Huda, he continued his dominance in the discus event, winning the county championship in his junior and senior years, setting new county records each time with throws of 178-05 and 191-06, respectively. Additionally, he clinched the Columbiana County Shot Put Championship in his junior (45-04) and senior (51-1.5) years.

Shivers also excelled at the conference level, becoming the Northeastern Buckeye Conference Champion in the discus as a junior and senior. He set a conference record with a throw of 183-06 in his junior year and improved it to 185-10 in his senior year. He was also crowned conference champion in the shot put as a senior.

Furthermore, he demonstrated his prowess at the district level, winning the Discus Champion title in 2012 and 2013 and setting district records in both years (188-06 as a junior and then 196-03 as a senior). Shivers also claimed the 2013 District Shot Put Championship with a throw of 55-1.5.

At regionals, Shivers secured victory in the discus and shot-put events in 2012 and 2013. He set regional meet records in the discus as a junior (181-08) and senior (190-04) and claimed the shot-put title (52-10.5) as a senior.

His exceptional performances continued at the state level and Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. In 2012, the junior became the Division II Discus State Champion with a throw of 190-7. His other two throws were better than any of the best throws by the second-place finisher. Shivers repeated as state champion in 2013 with a near record throw of 203-02, just five inches shy of the Division II state record. The toss was more than 30 feet farther than that of the state runner-up. The senior also earned a sixth place state finish in the shot put (54-2.5).

Beyond state competitions, Shivers showcased his talent at the national level with the Midwest Meet of Champions in Indiana, where he won the discus event and set a new meet record (198-03). He was also named the field MVP for the meet. His outstanding performances throughout his senior year earned him the top national ranking for discus throwers in the 2013 season, as recognized by Track and Field News.

In addition to his achievements in track, Shivers had a notable prep basketball career. He was a three-year letter winner and served as team captain during his junior and senior years. In the 2012-13 season, he played a pivotal role for head coach Rich Hart in helping guide his team to a 19-7 record and a district runner-up finish, contributing an impressive scoring average of 16.3 points per game and shooting 60% from the field. In recent Quaker history (since 2007), his total of 408 points scored during his senior year ranks third best.

Shivers attended the University of Notre Dame, where he continued to shine as a track and field athlete. He earned a four-year letter and continued his prep trend of setting several records during his collegiate career. As a junior, he won the Notre Dame Blue & Gold Indoor Invitational in the weight throw with the second-best throw in school history (63-1.5). He broke the school record in the weight throw three times, achieving a remarkable distance of 67-03 at the 2017 ACC Indoor Track & Field Championship as a senior.

Shivers also left his mark in the hammer throw, setting a school record of 213-05 at the 2016 ACC Outdoor Championships as a junior and surpassing it with a throw of 217-03 at the 2017 Outdoor Michael Johnson Invitational in Waco, TX.

The Fighting Irish standout received various accolades during his college career, including First Team All-ACC honors in the hammer throw and Second Team All-ACC in the discus as a junior. Throughout the same 2015-16 season, Shivers was named the Notre Dame Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete for both the indoor and outdoor seasons. His accomplishments led to being named the 2017 Track and Field team captain for his senior year. He later achieved Second Team All-ACC status in the weight throw in his final season.

Shivers currently resides in Salem and is employed as a software developer at Reliability Data Network. He has also served as an assistant coach with the Salem High School track teams the last several seasons.

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Nancy Miller (Girls Track Coach 1982-1990)

Nancy Miller’s name is synonymous with excellence, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing young athletes both on and off the track. As the head coach of the Salem Girls Track & Field team from 1982 to 1990, she instilled a coaching philosophy that emphasized hard work, fairness, and the importance of family, helping establish the program for years to come.

Throughout her nine seasons at the helm, Miller built a formidable track and field program that thrived under her guidance. Her coaching philosophy centered on treating every team member equally, upholding high standards, and fostering an environment akin to a close-knit family. Miller’s teams embraced these principles, and as a result, success naturally followed.

In 1984, Miller celebrated a significant milestone as junior Tracy Esterly became her first state qualifier (1600-meter run). This achievement marked the beginning of a string of standout performances by Salem athletes over subsequent years. Notable names such as Sue McKinney, Dina Hartman, Kim Ricker, and a formidable 4×800 relay team composed of McKinney, Ricker, Erica Beagle, and Melinda Wilms contributed to the team’s consistent success. In 1988, Tonya Beall became the second standout to qualify for the state meet (100-meter dash) under the tutelage of Miller.

However, it was the record-breaking 1990 season that cemented Miller’s legacy at Salem. The team went undefeated in dual meets and emerged victorious in numerous prestigious meets, including winning championships at the County, MVC, FE Cope, Canfield Invitational (against 25 teams), East Palestine Invitational (against 29 teams), and District meet. Quaker athletes were featured in nine different events for regionals, and three advanced to the state level. Theresa Kaine secured an impressive third-place finish in both the 1600 and 3200 meters, while the 4×800 relay team of Kaine, Trisha Wilms, Justine Morain, and Amie Cochran also secured a third-place finish. The team’s outstanding collective efforts led to an overall fourth place Division II state finish–the highest the girls’ team has ever achieved.

Throughout her Salem coaching tenure, Miller amassed a dual meet record of 59-12. To go along with the county, league, and district championships from 1990, her teams claimed two other Columbiana County titles in 1987 and 1989 and clinched three other MVC league titles in 1987, 1988, and 1989. Under Miller’s guidance, Salem athletes set 12 school records.

Her coaching prowess extended beyond her time at Salem as well. After a long hiatus, she enjoyed another successful stint as the head coach at United High School from 2005 to 2015, amassing an incredible 110-1 dual meet record. Her United teams captured five Columbiana County Championships and six league titles and had individuals qualify for the Division III state meet seven separate seasons. In 2009, Miller helped lead Victoria Bates to a state championship in the discus event, further solidifying her status as an accomplished coach.

Miller’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized with numerous accolades. In 2011, she was named the Ohio Northeast District Coach of the Year, and the following year, she received the OHSAA Ohio Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity Award. In 2012, Miller was honored as the OHSAA Ohio Coach of the Year across all divisions. Her outstanding contributions to the sport were acknowledged on a national level when she was named the NFHS National Midwest Region Coach of the Year in 2013.

Beyond her coaching career, Miller retired from teaching at United High School in 2019. She remains an active member of the community, dedicating her time to various roles at Salem United Methodist Church, including Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School teacher, Chosen Bible study teacher, and a Grief Share group monitor. She currently resides in Salem with husband Bill. They have three adult children, Andy, Katy, and Maggie.

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Bo Whinnery (Joe Kelley Spirit of Salem Award)

Bo Whinnery is a dedicated individual with a deep-rooted passion for Salem Quaker athletics. Born and raised in Salem, Ohio, he graduated from Salem High School in 1973. Throughout his life, Whinnery has worn various hats, but his love for his alma mater’s sports programs has remained a constant source of inspiration and helped earn him the Joe Kelley Spirit of Salem Award for 2023.

After completing his education, Whinnery enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a member of the Naval Submarine Service during the height of the Cold War. His time in the military instilled in him a strong sense of duty and commitment to his country. Upon returning home in 1986, he channeled his enthusiasm into giving back to the community through his involvement in Salem Quaker athletics.

Whinnery began his journey by volunteering to coach Salem girls’ slow-pitch softball teams and dedicated ten years to nurturing young athletes and instilling in them the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. Following his coaching tenure, Whinnery transitioned into becoming an ASA-certified umpire. For the next eighteen years, he could be found officiating games on various fields throughout the area and the state, sharing his expertise and ensuring fair play.

In 2000, Whinnery’s commitment to Salem Quaker athletics led him to join the crew of the “chain gang” during Salem JV football games, where he managed down and distances on the sidelines. The very next week, based on his reliability and dedication, he was entrusted with the responsibility of operating the clock and scoreboard during various levels of football games that were held at the renowned Reilly Stadium. Whinnery fulfilled this role with pride for nearly fifteen years, becoming an integral part of the game-day experience.

However, Whinnery’s true passion emerged in the fall of 2001 when he became involved with the Salem High School girls soccer program. Initially, he contributed by operating the clock and scoreboard during home matches. As time went on, he took on the role of the PA announcer, a position from which he proudly announced the phrase “historic Reilly Stadium” to the enthusiastic crowd. Over the course of more than a decade, Whinnery built strong relationships with coaches and players, leaving a lasting impact on the soccer community.

Due to health concerns in 2015, Whinnery stepped down from his primary duties, but his dedication to Salem Quaker athletics remains unwavering. He continues to make special appearances as an announcer for soccer and football games when needed. On Friday nights, Whinnery can be found in the press box, serving as a spotter during Quaker home football games, demonstrating his enduring commitment to his alma mater.

Whinnery’s selfless dedication to Salem Quaker athletics was evident through his consistent presence and active participation in over 80 events each year, encompassing softball and stadium contests. His impact on the lives of numerous student athletes is immeasurable within the sports community of Salem.

Whinnery currently resides in Salem. Outside of his involvement in sports, he is a loving father to his two adult sons, Josh and Bryan, and a proud grandfather to five grandchildren.

2006 and 2007 Girls Volleyball Teams

Salem volleyball experienced remarkable success under the guidance of head coach Don Conser (SHS Athletic HOF Class of 2021) throughout his entire tenure. However, he never quite experienced as much success as during the 2006 and 2007 seasons.

In 2006, the team achieved an undefeated regular season with a perfect 21-0 record, including a flawless 14-0 record in the Metro Athletic Conference. The Lady Quakers began their tournament journey with impressive victories over Struthers and Youngstown Woodrow Wilson in three games each. Continuing their winning streak, the top-seeded Lady Quakers triumphed over Mantua Crestwood in the district semifinals and secured their tenth district championship under Coach Conser’s leadership by defeating the second-seeded Hubbard Lady Eagles in three games in the district final. The team’s magical journey concluded after falling in three games during the regional semifinals to Walsh Jesuit, who went on to become the state runner-up. The Lady Quakers ended their season with a 25-1 record, tying the school’s all-time best mark set in 1990.

Leading the 2006 team were senior captains Brittany Gregory and Leah Perry, along with seniors Makenzie Zocolo and Sarah Humphrey. Additionally, juniors Paige Kenreigh, Katie Scullion, Sarah Brobeck, and Erika Smith contributed significantly. The team also saw the emergence of talented underclassmen, including sophomores Jessie Dillon, Taylor Toothman, Brianne Wagner, and Allison Ward, as well as freshman standout Amy Scullion, who later earned a place in the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2021. Brittany Gregory received Second Team All-Ohio honors and was named district player of the year, while Sarah Brobeck and Amy Scullion were recognized with Honorable Mention All-Ohio status for their outstanding performances.

In the subsequent season of 2007, Salem volleyball continued their winning ways by achieving another undefeated regular season, marking the second consecutive year and the fifth time overall (previously in 1990, 1992, and 1993). The team also secured their 22nd consecutive conference championship. Finishing the season as the number one ranked team in Division II in the state of Ohio, the Lady Quakers advanced through the tournament with victories over Akron East and Struthers at the sectional level, followed by a district win against Ravenna Southeast and then Mogadore Field in the district final. Seeking redemption from the previous year, Salem faced Walsh Jesuit in the regional semifinals and emerged victorious in a thrilling five-game match, winning 25-15, 16-25, 22-25, 25-13, and 17-15. They continued their triumphant run by defeating Parma Padua Franciscan in four games to capture the regional title, thus earning a spot in the state final for the second time in school history (the first being in 1999). However, in the Division II State Final Four matchup against Toledo Central Catholic held at Wright State University in Dayton, Salem won the first two games but ultimately fell short as Toledo Central Catholic rallied back to win the final three games of the best-of-five match. The Lady Quakers ended their two-year run with a staggering 52-2 overall record.

Amy Scullion, now a sophomore, demonstrated her exceptional skills and was named First Team All-Ohio, also earning a spot on the USA Volleyball Select team. Seniors Katie Scullion and Sarah Brobeck received recognition as well, with Scullion making Third Team All-Ohio and Brobeck earning honorable mention honors for the third consecutive season. The senior members of the team also included Paige Kenreigh, Erika Smith, and Emily Winn. Juniors Jessie Dillon, Taylor Toothman, Brianne Wagner, and Allison Ward took on increased roles, while sophomores Dana Ackerman and Lydia Shivers rounded out the squad. Coach Don Conser’s exceptional leadership was once again acknowledged as he received the prestigious honor of being named one of two National Coaches of the Year by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA). He was also recognized as the 2007 Division II Ohio High School Volleyball Coaches Association’s (OHSVCA) Coach of the Year for the second time, previously receiving the award in 1992.