Legends Are Forever: Coach Hammond inducted into Hall of Fame

Recently, legendary RHS Track & Field and Cross Country Coach, Denny Hammond, was inducted into the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Hall of Fame. We are #REYNProud of Coach Hammond and thank him for his service to the District.

For 36 years, Denny Hammond built a legacy as one of Ohio’s most successful and respected cross country and track & field coaches. Known for developing athletes and teams at the highest levels, he consistently led programs to conference, district, regional, and state success. Denny began his career at Canal Winchester High School in 1982, then spent nearly two decades at Reynoldsburg High School coaching cross country and track & field, before finishing his coaching journey at Columbus Academy.

In cross country, his teams earned 4 OCC titles, 9 district championships, and 2 regional championships, while producing 25 All-Ohio runners, including state champions Lyndsi Gay and Tsehaye Hiluf. His track & field success at Reynoldsburg was even more impressive, with 15 OCC titles, 19 regional championships, and four Division I girls state championships from 2009–2012. The 2009 girls' team set a state meet record with 82 points. Overall, Denny coached 129 All-Ohio athletes, including 23 individual or relay state champions, with state records set across multiple events.

Denny’s impact earned statewide and national recognition, including NFHS Ohio Coach of the Year and the Fred Dafter Girls Career Coach of the Year awards. Congratulations, Denny on your induction into the OATCCC 2026 Hall of Fame!