Cuyahoga Heights High School (CHHS) Football Assistant Coaches John Shafer and Tony Rinella were honored with service awards by the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association last weekend in Columbus. With a combined 50 years of football coaching experience between them (30 years for Shafer and 20 for Rinella), they have been an integral part of CHHS’s successful football program during their tenure. This includes 12 conference titles and two state final appearances.
"Coach Shafer and Rinella have been a staple for Cuyahoga Heights athletics,” said Athletic Director Ryan Kelber. “Their dedication to the district and commitment to developing not just players, but individuals, over the years is truly remarkable. It takes an extraordinary level of perseverance, leadership, and passion to stay in this profession for as long as they have. Both coaches' tenure is a testament to their exceptional coaching ability and the impact they have made on countless athletes and the community. I am proud and extremely fortunate to say I have worked with two great individuals.
Aside from coaching football, Shafer is an art teacher at Cuyahoga Heights Middle and High School and is Head Track Coach. Rinella is also an Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach.
Picture #1: Shafer (left) and Rinella (right)
Picture#2: Shafer (left) and his wife, Debbie, and Rinella and his wife, Laura at the awards ceremony.
