The upcoming Central Ohio High School Sports Awards will shine a spotlight on Ed Calo, the former Westerville South boys basketball coach whose name has become synonymous with excellence on the court. After guiding the Warriors through 38 seasons, Calo announced his retirement, leaving behind a legacy that includes 19 league championships, seven district titles and a state crown that still resonates in Ohio basketball circles.
A Career Defined by Consistency and Triumph
Calo’s 575‑298 win‑loss record reflects more than just numbers; it tells a story of sustained competitiveness and community impact. He led Westerville South to the Division I state title in 2016, edging out Lima Senior in a nail‑biting 57‑55 finale that capped a season many described as a masterclass in strategic adjustments and player development.
The following year, the school honored his contributions by naming the new gymnasium court after him when it opened in the fall of 2020, a testament to the lasting imprint he has left on the institution and its students. His induction into the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame earlier this year further cemented his status among the state’s coaching elite.
Beyond his own achievements, Calo’s influence extends to his family. His son, Anthony Calo, followed in his father’s footsteps, first as a player and later as an assistant coach for three seasons before carving out his own path. In 2025, Anthony guided Olentangy Orange to a Division I state championship, echoing the elder Calo’s feat and underscoring a unique father‑son dynasty in Ohio basketball.
Ed Calo also left a mark outside the gymnasium walls. He retired in 2015 from his role as an Advanced Placement government and history teacher at Westerville South, balancing the demands of coaching with academic instruction — a dual commitment that endeared him to players, students and colleagues alike. His story will be celebrated alongside other distinguished figures at the awards ceremony, reminding the community of the profound impact one individual can have on sport and education.