Harrison Central Athletic Council reviews finances, sports seasons

The Harrison Central Athletic Council met March 10 at the Harrison Central press box. The group is made up of coaches, the athletic director, school board representatives, athletic booster representatives and school representatives, including the superintendent and principal.

Principal Ken Parker called the meeting to order for the 16 members in attendance. Athletic Director Ray Hibbs then gave the 2025-2026 financial report, with expenses totaling $58,927 and income of $101,244.26.

Old business was discussed, with coaches encouraged to remain on site until all athletes have left school grounds after games and practices and to make sure doors are secured before leaving the building. Calamity day procedures also were discussed regarding practices during those days.

Spring coaches reported on their outlook for the season, sharing concerns and positive possible outcomes. Coach Darrin Young gave a preview of the softball team’s upcoming trip to Ironton. This year the softball team has 21 players, creating some concern regarding a junior varsity team.

Coach Mike Valesko, the baseball coach, reported on his team. He also shared details of the team’s upcoming Florida trip to face Pine Forrest, Atmore Christian and Dublin Jerome.

Coach Luke Turner, track coach, told the group he has 40 boys this year and is looking forward to a rewarding season.

Coach Ty Kenny shared his appreciation for being able to take his track team on last year’s trip, saying many of his athletes had never seen the ocean. The team will travel to North Carolina this season.

Reviewing winter sports, wrestling coach Bill Bryant summarized his season, saying one wrestler attended district play. He emphasized that his season was plagued by injuries.

Basketball coach Nick Yourkovich said he was happy to be back coaching and had positive things to say about his team. He said not only was the schedule challenging, but the losses were very close. The team lost five games by 5 points or fewer.

Girls basketball coach Chase Smith also had positive things to say about his team. The team went 9-14. He pointed out that this year the team was able to break the school record for 3-point shots, previously held by the boys team.

Bowling coach Jim Runevitch informed the group of his season highlights and said his girls team did very well. However, with the loss of his seniors, he will have five returning girls bowlers. The boys team will lose only two players to graduation.

Coach Karli Ray reported on the cheerleaders’ trip to Disney World and how appreciative the girls were, speaking of the trip almost daily. She also spoke about upcoming tryouts.

Fall coaches in attendance were football coach Anthony Hayes and soccer coach Mindi Madzia. Madzia expressed concern regarding the resignation of her assistant coach, Meghan Scholl. She said she has a possible candidate she is pursuing.

Coaches also were reminded to report sports scores to Hibbs after each game.

In closing, school board member D.J. Watson said the board was pleased with the performance of the coaching staff and he said he looked forward to the spring season.