BOB ANDERSON OF ANNA

Bob Anderson is a dying breed of coaches that have remained at the same school for his entire teaching and coaching career. He spent 30 successful years (1957-1987) at Anna and wore many hats. He taught health, physical education, driver’s education, sociology and biology. He was athletic director for 30 years and Senior Class Advisor for 25 years.

Coach Anderson’s motto over his years of coaching was: "The heart carries the feet". According to him he was blessed with many kids with great attitude and willingness to work very hard to achieve. Much of this attitude came from parents and a wonderful community in which to live. My wife, Caryll, through her love and support, was the best "assistant coach" a man could ever ask for. The third reason for my success was my special "Mentors" at the Ohio State University - Woody Hayes and Fred Taylor.

Bob was the varsity basketball coach for 26 years (1957-83) accumulating 416 victories, and an average of 16 a year. He won 9 Shelby County Championships (65, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 75, 76 and 82. They were runners-up in 63, 64, 69, 71 and 83. They won District Championships in 1965 and 1972. They were District Runners-up in 66, 68, 71, 78 and 83. In 1972 they were Regional Runner-up.

How he did this I’ll never know: Coached JV Basketball for 17 years (1957-74) while coaching the varsity. His JV teams won 237 while losing only 69. Bob coached varsity baseball for 18 years (1957-70 and 1983-87) winning three Districts and 1 state runner-up. On top of that he was varsity track coach from 1957-62.

His community activities included Shelby County Regional Planning Commission (over 20 years) - Executive Secretary, Anna Education Foundation (5 years) - Vice President, Anna Park Committee (25 years) and Anna Endowment Foundation (3 years).

His church is the Anna United Methodist where he has been a member for 47 years and served as Council President, Vice President, Trustee member, Pastor-Parish Relations, as well as other positions through the years.

His wife, Caryll, passed away a few years ago. They had three children: Daniel, Julie A. Isely, Amy Anderson and three grandchildren. Bob was married to Rhonda in July 2004 who is an Anna Elementary Art teacher.

Bob was a lifetime member of the OHSBCA and received an Honorary Membership in the OHSBCA.