News Summary

Ed Calo, a revered figure in Westerville basketball, has officially announced his retirement after an impressive 38-year career as head coach of Westerville South. Throughout his tenure, Calo achieved a remarkable record of 572 wins, securing numerous championships and accolades, including a state title in 2016. The community celebrated his contributions, exemplified by the naming of the new basketball gym in his honor. As he steps away from coaching, Calo will continue to support the sport from afar, leaving behind a lasting legacy cherished by players and fans alike.

Big Changes in Westerville as Ed Calo Hangs Up His Whistle After 38 Seasons

Westerville, a cozy city known for its tight-knit community and love for high school basketball, is saying goodbye to a coaching legend. After an incredible 38 seasons leading the Westerville South basketball team, Ed Calo has announced his retirement as head coach, marking his second retirement in just four years. It’s been quite a rollercoaster ride for Calo, who initially stepped down from his position on April 22, only to return just three months later. Now, it seems like this time he’s serious about taking a break.

A Legacy Built on Wins

During his time at Westerville South, Calo tallied an impressive record of 572 wins to 298 losses. That’s no small feat! Under his watchful eye, the team clinched 19 league championships and brought home seven district titles for their proud community. The highlight of Calo’s illustrious career was leading Westerville South to an unforgettable Ohio high school basketball Division I state championship in 2016. They took down Lima Senior in an electrifying game, bringing home the trophy and leaving fans buzzing with excitement.

But that’s not all— the year before, he had the team just shy of the title, finishing as the runner-up to Wayne in the state championship game. Calo’s knack for building a competitive program attracted attention and respect from various circles, earning him a spot in the Westerville South Hall of Fame back in 1995, and later, a well-deserved induction into the Ohio Capital Conference Hall of Fame in 2018.

Honoring the Coach

To commemorate his invaluable contributions, Westerville South honored Calo by naming their new basketball gym after him in 2020. It’s a gesture that shows just how much he means to the school and community. After all, how many coaches can say they’ve left such a lasting impact?

From Player to Coach

Interestingly, the journey began for Ed Calo as a player at Westerville South before he transferred to Slippery Rock. His passion for the game didn’t end with his playing days; it evolved as he took on assistant coaching roles right after graduating high school. Starting in 1980 at Franklin Heights, he didn’t take long to find his way back to Westerville South as he honed his skills over the next few years. Just one year into being an assistant coach at Westerville, he was named head coach, marking the start of an enduring legacy.

A New Chapter

Even as he steps away from the sidelines, Calo has made it clear that he will still support the Ohio high school basketball program from a distance. Though it seems this break will likely be permanent, it doesn’t mean he’s leaving the sport behind entirely. In fact, he recently had the joy of watching his son win the first Division 1 state championship with Olentangy Orange in March, bringing a new generation of family pride to the sport.

The Community Bids Farewell

As Ed Calo closes this chapter of his life, it’s hard not to feel a mix of emotions. The players, parents, and fans who have seen him lead the team will surely miss his guiding presence. His record speaks volumes, but so does his dedication to developing young athletes on and off the court. The Westerville South basketball community is forever grateful for the countless memories, triumphs, and life lessons shared under the leadership of this legendary coach. Here’s to Ed Calo—a true hero of Westerville basketball!

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