When it comes to Indiana high school football, few names carry as much weight at Bob Gaddis.
The legendary coach turned Columbus East into one of the most successful programs in state history while also working to promote the sport statewide for more than four decades.
On Nov. 18, after 20 years of leading East, and 42 overall years of coaching, Gaddis, 65, announced his retirement from the gridiron.
The longtime Olympians coach finished his career as the sixth all-time winningest coach in Indiana high school football history. At East, Gaddis went 212-43 while winning 11 sectional, 10 regional, three semistate and two state championships. His teams have also won 17 consecutive Hoosier Hills Conference titles and 96 straight HHC games.
While Gaddis leaves the game with more accolades than he can count, his greatest accomplishment in Columbus can’t be measured.
Former East, and Purdue University, running back Markell Jones described Gaddis’ impact on the community best.
“[Gaddis] used to say, ‘Do what Olympians do. Be a good person on and off the field,’" he said. “Over the years, he’s created a lot of men out of boys. He wanted good men first and foremost — and he was a good football coach, too."
Harry Crider, who is now Indiana University’s starting center, shared Jones’ sentiments on Gaddis.
“[Playing for Gaddis] was a really special time,” Crider said. “Coach Gaddis is one of the biggest leaders and role models I’ve had in my life so far. He instills values that go way beyond the football field. He raises kids to be great leaders and young men and husbands, and he’s been great for the Columbus East football community.”
Gaddis didn’t just put one of the best football products in the state on the field, but developed the young men he worked with into successful, upstanding members of the Bartholomew County community and beyond.
Thankfully, the hall-of-famer plans to continue as physical education waiver coordinator and credit recovery program coordinator for the school through the end of the school year. He will also remain in his role as executive director of the Indiana Football Coaches Association.
We wish Gaddis the best in his well-earned retirement, and thank him for his service to the community.
