Franklin County honors spring high-school state champions

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners opened its session by honoring more than a dozen high-school state champions from across central Ohio, inviting coaches and athletes to the dais to introduce themselves and describe their seasons.

John Cronor, director of sports administration for the Ohio High School Athletic Association, said he appreciated the opportunity to attend on behalf of the OHSAA and congratulated the students for their accomplishments. "Obviously it's quite an accomplishment to be a state champion," Cronor said, adding that he was "happy" with recent sport expansions at the association.

Coaches and student-athletes took turns at the microphone. Columbus High coach Kendelle Moore introduced student Jaden Smith, who said he will attend Ohio State University to study sports management and continue his track career: "I'll be attending OSU, Ohio State University. I'll be majoring in sports management and hopefully I'll continue my track journey there," Smith said. Coach James Dingis highlighted Laya Bendic’s long jump win and noted her first jump measured 18'3", a mark the coach said solidified the meet victory.

Other highlights included individual and team champions across track and field, lacrosse and tennis. Speakers frequently thanked families, school staff and county commissioners for the recognition. A number of seniors announced college commitments; for example, Olivia Metlo, a state champion from Westerville Central, said she will attend Ohio University to run track and study speech-language pathology.

Commissioners closed the presentation with remarks urging the student-athletes to use their athletic success as a springboard for future leadership and achievement in the community. The ceremony concluded with applause and a reminder that the regular agenda would follow.

The recognition was ceremonious rather than legislative; no formal county action was required other than the hosting of the event.