The Wisconsin basketball community mourns the loss of Ron Einerson, who died at the age of 93. Over a career that stretched from the late 1960s to the early 1990s, Einerson compiled a 556‑235 record while guiding Neenah High School to two state championships in 1975 and 1978.
More Than a Coach
Beyond the hardwood, Einerson served his country as a U.S. Army veteran and spent 25 years teaching social studies at Neenah. He championed girls' sports long before it became a mainstream priority, often collaborating with coaches and administrators to expand opportunities for female athletes.
His contributions earned him a place in the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame and a term as its president during the organization’s formative years. The association’s current leadership praised his role in shaping policies that still benefit the state’s programs.
A Ripple Effect Across Generations
Neenah’s present boys basketball coach, Lee Rabas, recalled how Einerson elevated the Rockets to a program that routinely appeared in state tournaments and captured 12 conference titles. Former player Teri Shannon, who later became a standout at the University of Wisconsin‑Green Bay, spoke of Einerson’s willingness to mentor the girls’ team and its coach, Jean Kessler.
The impact of his leadership extended to other notable figures in Wisconsin basketball. Hall of Famers such as Tom Desotell, Don Gosz, Jerry Petitgoue and Dick Bennett have all cited Einerson as a mentor or peer who set a standard for excellence and integrity.
A Legacy That Endures
Even after retirement, Einerson’s philosophy continued to influence coaching curricula and community programs. His belief that every student‑athlete deserved a chance to compete and grow remains a guiding principle for many high school coaches across the state.