Also honors Coach Switzer’s 25 years as coach

By Joanne Prater (Contributor) Note: Edited for publication by Chuck Gibson

LOVELAND, OH (April 11, 2024) – The banquet celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Loveland Wrestling and Coach Chris Switzer’s 25-year anniversary as coach was, by all accounts, a big success.

LHS Wrestling Alumni:KNEELING L – R : Tyler Rahm, Allen Jones, Terry Lynch, Jim Cole, Matt Hamill, Bob Cox, Troy Fuson. STANDING L – R: Shawn Richardson, Gabe Sanders, Jason Anthony, Anthony Cook, Jason Lucy, Coach Chris Switzer, John Lucy, Coach Michael Rich, Alvie Jones, Don Meineke, Coach Dale Lawrence. Chris Kelly. (Photo credit Joanne Prater)

Made possible by generous donations and support of both businesses and individuals in the Loveland community, the event was held March 21st.

“We are truly grateful for your ongoing support making this event possible.” – Joanne Prater

It was a memorable evening, attended by more than 150 people, including middle, high school athletes and many alumni, including three members of the original 1964 team. The cafeteria was filled with Loveland Wrestling history representing each decade. The alumni and current athletes enjoyed a trip down memory lane.

Mihalik Family Picture: Front Row Left to Right: Lisa Mihalik McFarland, Lori Millie Green, Roger Muething Back Row Left to Right Jacob Green, Chris & Debbie Mihalik (Photo credit Joanne Prater)

Coach Chris Switzer was truly surprised and a bit taken back by everyone that attended. Among the honorary guests attending were members of Coach Tom Mihalik’s family. Mihalik is the founding father of Loveland High School Wrestling.

Attendees enjoyed a catered dinner; catered by Leah Moss’ “All Those Ingredients” with dessert treats donated by Crumbl Cookies of Mason. Former coach Mike Rich (now retired) went through the history of the Loveland Wrestling program as those attending enjoyed the dining fare. He spoke with great admiration and enthusiasm about the program and Coach Mihalik, who started the program.

Coach Switzer received checks totaling $4,800 to help fund the team trip to Loveland, Colorado from Banquet committee (Photo courtesy Joanne Prater)

Coach Rich reflected on his time at Loveland and all the accomplishments by LHS Wrestling. Current Assistant Coach Jonny Brennan talked about his time at Loveland and working with Coach Chris Switzer.

“I am grateful to all the members of the Banquet Committee; Katie Folzenlogan, Leah Moss, Andrea Rahm, Laurie Hyrne, Lori Walker, Tori Morrison, Teresa Madison, Sara Case, Meghan Guitron, Tristie Redmond, Natasha Bigl who worked very hard with me to make this event happen.” – Joanne Prater.

As a result of their efforts and the generosity of the community, they were able to present Coach Switzer with checks totaling $4,800 to help fund the LHS Wrestling Team trip to Loveland, Colorado.

“We hope Coach Switzer will send us updates and pictures of the upcoming trip to Loveland, Colorado this summer,” said Prater. “Thank you to all of the coaches and their staff, Tom Mihalik, Mike Rich, Chris Switzer, Dale Lawerance, Jonny Brennan, Seth Brennock, and so many others, for all their hard work and commitment to the program and athletes. Without them, none of this would have been possible.”

CLICK HERE for more on LHS Wrestling