SIDNEY — The Shelby County Athletic League honored longtime Sidney Daily News Sports Editor Ken Barhorst Friday night for his dedication to the young athletics in its league.
“The Shelby County Athletic League Council meets every two months and includes principals and athletic directors,” said Ryan Maier, Houston High School principal and council president.
When the council learned Barhorst had been elected into the Ohio Prep Writers Association Hall of Fame, they decided they wanted to honor him locally.
“We’re over there (state tournament) as coaches,” said Maier. “That’s just a small piece of Shelby County. We’ve all enjoyed Ken’s writing so we said ‘Let’s do something around here. Let’s do something at a tournament game.’”
The council decided to honor him Friday night as Fort Loramie and Russia prepared for its game at Piqua High School.
“We honored him before the game so we didn’t take anything away from the athletes,” said Maier. “It was a great venue to have honored him in.”
On the court was Barhorst, his wife, Connie, and his son’s family.
“It was an amazing night and very humbling,” said Barhorst. “It turned out to be a very special night. I was overwhelmed and very appreciative for what they did for me.”
Maier said the presentation couldn’t be a surprise because he had to make sure Barhorst was at the game and not another game.
“I had to call Ken to make sure he’d be here since there were so many other sporting events going on,” said Maier. “I told him we’d love to have you here.
“We put out the word so we could get as many past and present coaches and athletic directors at the event,” he said. “I think we had 30-plus coaches, athletic directors and family members on the court.”
Anna Local Schools Superintendent Andy Bixler presented the award to Barhorst. Bixler is a member of the Ohio High School Athletic Association Board of Directors.
Barhorst will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on March 19 during the Division I boys championship game in Columbus.
