Bob Behringer – 2017
Swimmer Bob Behringer was a coach’s dream competitor in every phase of preparation. Bob was always seeking out ways to improve, whether it be his technique, his mental preparation, his personal commitment to goal achievement, or his sincere concern for the betterment of his teammates. Bob was known as a cerebral trainer and competitor; he was a rare talent in the pool and excelled in his ability to race every time his toes curled over the starting block. He loved to race anyone, anywhere, and at anytime.
Steve Ellison – 2017
Steve Ellison was one of the most athletic and skilled basketball players in the history of Perry. From his sophomore year in 1984 until his graduation Steve performed at the highest level in every aspect of the game. He was a fine ball handler, an excellent passer, a strong rebounder, a tenacious defender, and a high flying offensive performer. As a sophomore he slowly worked himself into the rotation of varsity players. His junior year he exploded onto the scene as a starting forward. His play in the 1985 District tournament almost led a 10-10 team to the Regionals. In his junior year Steve averaged 16 points and 8 rebounds per game and was named the team’s MVP. This foreshadowed what would become a dominant senior season for Steve. Not only was Steve the Perry MVP in 1986, he was the MVP in the Federal League as well. He led the team in scoring, rebounding, steals, and blocked shots. Perry forged a record of 20-4 and lost the district final on a last second shot to McKinley. When we think of Steve Ellison we picture a powerful drive to the basket, a smooth jumper from the wing, or a high flying dunk in transition. Steve was the leader of Perry basketball in 1985 and 1986.
Joel Kessel – 2017
1988 graduate Joel Kessel was a multi-sport standout at Perry. Joel excelled at more than jus athletics at Perry; the multi-talented Kessel starred on the theater stage, in the choir, was selected to Student Council by his peers, and was named Best Citizen by the teaching staff. His character and leadership led the Fighting Panthers to two Federal League Championships during his football career. Joel also starred on the track for Perry and dabbled in basketball during his sophomore year. Joel was a quarterback/defensive back/punter/kicker for the Panthers and earned All-League, All-County, and All-Ohio honors. Joel was named Outstanding Defensive Back at the 1987 banquet. In 1986, Joel won the Fighting Panther Award as a defensive back. After high school, Joel punted for the Ohio State Buckeyes; he had a 35.3 yard average on 56 career punts (1991-1992). In 2011, Joel was a part-time assistant football coach at Otterbein.
Sue Koch – 2017
Sue Koch was an essential member of the first girl’s basketball team to win a Federal League title at Perry. Upon graduation, Sue set a season record for most games played (36) at the University of Cincinnati and sits fourth all-time in games played for the Bearcats (124). Sue continues to share her love of basketball by teaching the game in China.
Lisa McLean – 2017
Lisa McClean was one of the best outfielders in Perry Softball History. She roamed centerfield for 4 years and chased down every fly ball she could reach. As a freshman Lisa received honorable mention All Federal League. In her sophomore year she and her teammates won the regional and advanced to the State Final Four.Lisa made three great catches during their playoff run that kept runners from scoring and saved games. She was named to the first team All Federal Team as the starting centerfielder. As a Junior, she made All Northeast District which few players make because of the voting procedures. After her stellar career at Perry Lisa attended the University of Akron and played outstanding softball for four years. When she graduated in 2009 she held many individual season and career records for the Zips.
Carol Meyer – 2017
In the early days of Perry High School Girl’s didn’t have much opportunity to participate in athletics. They could be a cheerleader and that was about it. When Carol Meyer was hired as Perry’s PE instructor the girl’s had an advocate. She loved to play sports and fought for girl’s athletic programs. The girl’s started with an annual Black and White basketball game. Finally, in the seventies Girl’s sports became a reality and Carol was ready. The first team began Varsity Basketball in 1973, it was a learning experience. In 1976 the Lady Panthers won the federal league tying for the top spot with two other teams. This team was led by two Perry Hall of Famers Kay Port and this year’s inductee Sue Koch. In 1976 Perry added Volleyball and Carol was instrumental in hiring George Green who led the panthers to the Final Four in 1979. Carol’s teams also won the Federal League in 1917 and 1979.These teams were led by Hall of Famers Denise Callahan and Denise Deitz.Girl’s athletics were just starting, yet Mrs. Meyer and her assistant Art Carlson made Perry proud with their outstanding play. Carol was also was a lady pastor for The First Baptist Church of Massillon., where she led countless prayer meetings to help others in the Community.
Thomas Straughn – 2017
Wrestling stalwart Thomas Straughn helped anchor one of the most successful runs in Perry wrestling history. During his four year career spanning 2004-2007, Perry wrestling posted three 2nd place finishes at the State Tournament (2004-2006) and wound up third at the State Tournament during Thomas’ senior year (2007). In the fall of 2006, Thomas helped lead the Fighting Panthers to a playoff appearance and a 9-2 overall record on the gridiron. Following high school, Thomas attended Edinboro University before transferring to Notre Dame College.
Bob Zak -2017
Swimmer Bob Behringer was a coach’s dream competitor in every phase of preparation. Bob was always seeking out ways to improve, whether it be his technique, his mental preparation, his personal commitment to goal achievement, or his sincere concern for the betterment of his teammates. Bob was known as a cerebral trainer and competitor; he was a rare talent in the pool and excelled in his ability to race every time his toes curled over the starting block. He loved to race anyone, anywhere, and at anytime.
1978-1979 Girl’s Volleyball Team
Up until the year 1978, Perry had never had a “team” qualify for the state tournament in any sport. This 16-3 team was different from all the rest. The Lady Panthers were well coached by George Green and Debbie Schlie. They were led by their “Fab Four” Seniors, Chris Beatty, Pam Swain, Denise Deitz, and Denise Callahan. After suffering a heartbreaking loss to Glenoak in the Federal League title match, Coach George Green changed the team’s alignment and the team took off in the tournament. The new 4-2 offense suited the team’s offensive abilities, Deitz and Callahan were free to attack superior sets by Beatty and Junior Debbie Easterly. Underclassmen Krisse Hogue, Diane Easterly and Cathie Ellison joined the rotation. With this new surge of offensive power the team avenged their loss to Glenoak and advanced to the Regional tournament held at Berea High School. The rotation also gave our best server Pam Swain more opportunities and she came through like a champion. In the regional final against number 1 ranked Stow, Swain had 9 consecutive service points in the pivotal 2nd game. This upset victory propelled Perry to their first ever State Tournament in school history. For this reason, these girls will always have a special place in Perry athletics and this is why the HOF Committee is honoring them tonight.