Mark Ritzler Honored with Dr. James Houdeshell Excellence in Coaching Award

The University of Findlay Alumni Association has presented the 2026 Dr. James Houdeshell Excellence in Coaching Award to UF alumnus Mark Ritzler ’96, M’10, the former outstanding football coach at Findlay High School.

“Throughout his career, Coach Ritzler was widely respected for his service, commitment, and dedication to students and athletic programs,” said UF Athletic Director Jim Givens ’99, who presented the award at a UF alumni gathering March 20 at the OHSAA boys basketball state tournament in Dayton.

The Dr. James Houdeshell Excellence in Coaching Award honors UF alumni who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, integrity, and success in high school coaching. Named for the beloved professor, coach, and administrator at UF for more than 60 years, the award reflects his commitment to mentorship, education, and the lifelong impact of coaching.

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education from UF, where he played on the Oiler football team, Ritzler served from 2006 to 2019 as head football coach at Findlay High School, compiling a 74–68 record over 14 seasons and becoming the program’s all-time winningest head football coach.

In 2011, after leading the Trojans to a 10–2 record and a regional semifinal appearance, he was named the AP Division 1 State Coach of the Year, the 2012 Northwest Ohio Coach of the Year, and recognized with multiple league coach of the year honors.

In addition, he earned a master’s in education from UF, and he has coached basketball and track, served as athletic director at Donnell Middle School, and continues to mentor student-athletes today.

“Mark’s career reflects sustained leadership, competitive excellence, and a deep commitment to developing young people through athletics,” Givens said, noting the comparison with Houdeshell, who also dedicated his life to shaping student-athletes on and off the court.

As UF’s head basketball coach for 30 years, Houdeshell led the Oilers to 21 winning seasons and 16 NAIA playoff appearances, all while serving in numerous leadership roles at the University.

“Beyond wins and accolades, Dr. Houdeshell built a culture of excellence, ensuring his players and students were prepared for success beyond the game,” Givens noted.

UF alumni gathered last week at the annual reception in Dayton to enjoy championship basketball games, meet with fellow Oiler graduates, and hear from Tyler Johns ’12, new UF head football coach, and Charlie Ernst ’92, UF head basketball coach.