Memorial Page for Tom Ballaban
Legendary St. X teacher and coach Tom Ballaban passed away early on December 25, 2014.
Tom Ballaban served as history teacher for 45 years at St. Xavier and head football coach for the Bombers from 1953 to 1977 (25 years). During 
those years his teams compiled a record of 142-91-8, winning GCL championships in 1957, 1968, and 1970 and finishing second in the GCL in 1971, 1973, and 1976. His best single-season records were in 1968 (9-0-1) and 1957 (9-1). On three other occasions his teams went 8-2.
Ballaban also coached basketball at St. Xavier from 1951 to 1954, compiling a 59-25 record. During these years Tom's basketball teams won a district championship, a GCL championship and a GCL co-championship. His 1954 team finished second in the GCL.
Ballaban retired from teaching in 1998.
St. Xavier High School will host the wake on Monday, January 5 from 4-8 p.m. and the Funeral Mass will take place at Bellarmine Parish on Tuesday, January 6 at 10:30 a.m.
We encourage friends as well as former players and students to take the time to share thoughts and memories about Mr. Ballaban’s many years at St. Xavier. Each reflection will be posted on this story and allow his family to understand the impact he had on so many lives. If you would like to contribute a message to this page, please email Becky Schulte at bschulte@stxavier.org
Photo caption: (Coach Tom Ballaban, Current Head Football Coach Steve Specht and Coach Steve Rasso.)
Tom Ballaban Memorials
Watch the video tribute to Coach Tom Ballaban from the Class of 1965
I have to say, I truly loved Tom Ballaban--like a second father. He helped me tremendously during my St. X life, as well as my college life. He visited me twice at St. Joseph College in Indiana (once to talk to my coach about how I was doing and the second time, just to "cheer me up.") Of course, everyone remembers the way he used to put us all down after a particularly tough time after a history test. "Patty Ann could have fallen down the stairs with a pencil in her one hand and the test in the other, and received a better score than most of you on that test." I know he helped quite a few of us during our time at ST. X. From freshman basketball coach, to history teacher, to reserve basketball coach, to varsity football coach--we learned a lot from "Coach Bal."
Bill Clark '62
Quotes from the coach : "there is a big difference between being outstanding and standing out." Against huge odds - "men we will just out smart'em. To our kicking team playing against a public school - "death to the non-believers" after a Hail Mary & Queen of Victory pray for us, in the huddle.
"Bal" was guy who projected strength and toughness with humor. In practice he would always be testing our metal with bull in the ring drills. Practice for receivers - Catch the kick, run up field un assisted, with eleven tacklers ready to to take you down.
Lived in Price Hill. Had daughters, no sons. The week before playing Elder, you guys from the hill - get the names of the girl friends of the Elder players. We'll share those names and use them at the right time during the game.
An outstanding motivator. He could have made a fortune at this.
Jim Olding '58
I have many fond memories of playing football for COACH BALLABAN from 1954 to 1958. During my senior year, he knew i was off to the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy and he told me that was an excellent choice because he did not think i could make a living playing football! I saw him later in years working at River Downs, and he stopped in my pharmacy once to say hello. COACH touched many many boys lives ....he always liked us KENTUCKY boys.
Clarence J Martin '58
I met Tom after I retired and went to work at River Downs. Tom or Tommy was a great person, everyone I knew at the track thought so to. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He will be sorely missed by all. Tom was a person I would look forward to seeing when I got to work. Give my best wishes to his wife. My Condolences.
Eugene Hicks, retired Chief Bailiff of Hamilton County Municipal Court, Civil Division
Our dear friend Tom Ballaban will be missed by all of us who knew him in the thoroughbred racing industry. He was in charge of the ushers for many years at River Downs and was always kind and a joy to be around. He knew the horse racing business well. We veteran jockeys had the highest respect imaginable for Mr. Ballaban.
He and his wife Claire subbed in my wife’s parents’ bridge club once in a while. My wife and I met Tom at Tampa Bay Downs during the winter meets several times and enjoyed the races with him and my father-in-law while they talked like walking encyclopedias about horses, football, basketball and every sport that exists. We laughed and teased Bal about having all daughters, no boys!
Tom was a great guy and will be forever remembered for his unbelievable performance over his decades spent in Xavier's Athletic Department (and on the teaching staff at X) where he received national recognition. He had a reputation as an outstanding teacher (and role model) both inside and outside the classroom. His impeccable, elusive coaching records and accomplishments are astounding!
Bal was also a deacon to many less fortunate than he was, eagerly assisting them in obtaining part-time employment (at the track) to enable them to finance their college educations.
I am aware that these folks (whose mentor was Tom Ballaban) have had wonderful careers, and I know Tom died well pleased with them. We have lost a very wonderful gentleman in Tom, a humble man of multiple gifts, talents and skills whose timeless legacy will endure at Xavier, various race courses, and many other venues forever.
Larry LaGue, Retired Jockey
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Ballaban family! Tom will be sorely missed by those who were taught Social Studies and coached football by Tom. Tom will also be mourned by multiple generations of the entire St. X. Community.
My favorite memories occurred when I had the privilege of being a member of the Faculty and Social Studies Department during his last year of teaching at St. X. Tom was an awesome mentor for me, especially since I had begun the school year as a temporary replacement for one of his best friends Dick Berning (another legend of course!) After Dick passed (also too soon!), I finished the school year teaching Dick’s three World Cultures classes. Tom really helped me make the transition from practicing law to high school teaching and went out of his way to help me and of course, make me laugh! His vast reservoir of wisdom, legendary wit and enthralling stories was boundless. I could only imagine what great conversations I would have been privy to had Dick had still been with us. Tom had previously told other members of the Department that he would not retire until he approved of his replacement. He shared that with me as well. So when he retired, and I became a full time faculty member, I truly knew what a privilege it was to teach in the classrooms of Dick Berning and Tom Ballaban! God Bless you Dick and Tom!
Mike Odioso '81
If the term “one of a kind” ever applied to anyone, it applied to Coach Ballaban. The definition of the word legend includes “a collection of stories about an admirable person.” Based on that definition, the legend of Coach Ballaban around St. X will live for a long, long time.
Besides being a truly legendary man, he was also provided me with memories and experiences that I have cherished, and will cherish, my whole life. He was more than a teacher and a coach to me, he was someone I looked up to and thoroughly enjoyed. He was always the same, whether it was in the classroom or on the field, whether it was 1965 or 2005. You knew he’d have something to say about almost any topic, and you knew he’d have you laughing not more than 30 seconds into the conversation. I’m sure there’s a crowd around him in heaven right now, and he’s got them all laughing.
In addition to being one of my favorite teachers and coaches, Coach Ballaban was one on my favorite persons in life. My condolences to Mrs. Ballaban and the rest of the family. He’ll be missed by all of us. I’ll always have the fondest memories of him. While there’s a tear in my eye as I write this, it doesn’t take long for a smile to come back when I think of the way he was and of all the great things he did for me and the rest of my family. Thanks for everything Coach, you were the best.
Marty Mooney ‘70
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Tom. I taught at St. X. from 1967 to 1973. Tom and I spent many enjoyable hours laughing together during our lunch break. When I was a young teacher, he was always there with solid advice.
He was a great man as a teacher and a coach.
Frank Geppert
A really good guy. I never had him as teacher, but my older brother did. When I showed up as a freshman and he saw my name he told me he hoped I wasn't going to be as much trouble as my brother. Even though I never had him as a teacher, he would always catch me doing something. In one instance he caught me talking in the hall when classes we in session. He brought me in to his classroom and told his class he would show them what happens to people like me who break the rules. He had me kneel on a pointer stick and swatted me several times on the rear and then with a smile sent me to JUG.
Brian Hue '72
I played under Bal in the 1958 and 1959 football seasons (my junior and senior years). A couple of tidbits:
We had one play/formation for punt and kickoff returns. Bal referred to it as the “ donkey serenade” because when it worked –which it did on occasion – we made the other tem look silly.
The athletic department at the school had one movie projector to review game films,etc. Bal loved that projector. It had a remote control device that would allow reversing the film and running it forward at the press of a button. During films, he would always get some hapless player in an awkward position; falling, tripping, dropping the ball and such. He would run the film backward and forward repeatedly showing the victim in an embarrassing maneuver, all the while wisecracking which had the whole team cracking up except for the poor sould who was the subject of the attack. On the rare occasion when we were able to get ahold of a game film of an upcoming opponent, this same little projector was used for that screening. During my senior year, Bal was able to get his hands on a Purcell game film. In taking us through the Purcell film, Bal noticed the Purcell quarterback’s penchant for taking off running, and leaping over would-be tacklers. He honed in on one shot in which the quarterback was hit in midair, spun around, and slammed to the ground. He commented how this guy would never make it in college or the pros with that style of play. The quarterback was Heiseman Trophy winner and Dallas Cowboy MVP Roger Stauback.
Dan Dutro '60
I have several great memories of Bal that came to mind this morning when I read than Mr. Ballaban had passed away.
# 1 he was my very first experience at St X. World History was my first period class in September 1965 as a freshman. St X can be a scary experience for a teenager but Bal put us quickly at ease with his great sense of humor and teaching skills.
I remember the "Dinner Winner" question on his weekly quiz. Bal never gave anyone 100% on a quiz. One question would be something What's the Third Word in the Second Sentence of the Fourth Paragraph on Page 87 in the Textbook? No one ever got the Dinner Winner question correct.
Bal hated guessing. If you didn't know an answer, he would tell us to put down Ice Cream and he would give half credit for that - admitting you don't know the answer. He valued honesty.
# 2 Bal was a Big Ten basketball ref in those days during the winter months. I attended Purdue University in the early 1970's after graduating from St X in 1969. The best basketball game I saw at Purdue was NC State (starring David Thompson) versus Purdue in 1973 or 1974. It was an exciting game. Purdue led by 12 at half (NC State was undefeated at the time) but NC State rallied in the second half to win easily. Bal was one of the refs for the game. He and his crew got every call right. Hard to do but they did it. I wrote him a letter afterwards and he still remembered my letter 30 years later (at my 35th reunion).
# 3 last but not least, this was relayed second hand to me but I believe it to be true. Two HS teams (not St X) were playing each other in a big game at Xavier University football stadium. Yes XU had a football team in the 1960's. Anyway some fans were complaining about referees' calls going against their team. One even declared that he was sure one of the refs was Bal out to get his team. As it turned out, Bal was sitting in the rows just behind those fans. Sometime tapped the fan on the shoulder and pointed Bal out to him, offering to introduce him. (He declined but shut up the rest of the game)
RIP Bal. Hard to believe than God called Coaches Rasso and Bal home to Heaven the very same Christmas week. But He decides, not us, when our time comes to go home.
Tom Gray '69
I had the serendipitous pleasure of being a student at St. X when Bal began his teaching career there. Because of his imposing square jaw, humor, wit, and sarcasm, he never had a problem controlling a class or a team. At that time I didn't realize that he was just a few years older than we were. I always enjoyed reunions and socials when I knew he would be in attendance. One year, between 1951-54, he coached football, basketball and baseball, two by contract, one by default when the baseball coach fell ill. Requiescat in pace, Bal
Tom Budde '54
What a loss. I just finished reading the news. I instantly had a flood of memories from the fall of 1983 and the history class I found myself in as a newly minted freshman. I had heard his name even before I took a step into St X about this infamous coach, teacher, and character. Before my first day of school my dad had mentioned with a smile that he was there at his own time attending St X in the late 50’s. I could not figure out why he grinned in such a way as he said those words but I would soon find out.
Mr. Ballaban established from day one at X that he was going to run his class like no other as he verbally needled literally every guy in the room at first roll call. It was hilarious and a much needed stress relief for all of us in this new world we had found ourselves in. He had actually worked at River Downs with my grandfather in the past and I never heard the end of his opinion that I was not actually related to such a fine man. Throughout the year he kept me and everyone on their toes with his humor . It became the one class I actually really looked forward to that year.
His good natured humor and slug on the shoulder kept us all in fits and really kept us engaged for the entire year.
A true legend has left us and I hope his family knows he made quite an impression on generations of families!
Matt Thumann '87
I had the honor of playing for Bal at both the old school and 1 year at new. I still have fond memories of the bus ride through downtown out to Riverside Park on River Road to practice where we received a running commentary and humor on life in general with a little bit of football mixed in. Dick Berning would drive and Bal would navigate through rush hour traffic occasionally being escorted by Mr Duerich, a Cincinnati motorcycle cop. One particularly congested day we were escorted down 6th street eastbound by Mr. Duerich to school. 6th was westbound one way !!
I still believe to this day that Patti Ann can out run, block ,and tackle me.
Bal, I learned more about the levity of life from you than anyone else. I’ll miss you and those damn busrides !
Patti Ann, there’s only one way to find out who’s faster ! Your Dad is an icon !
Pete Boylan ‘61
I am so fortunate to be able to say that I am blessed to be a “pseudo” extended family member of the Ballaban/Mueller family. There are many of us in the Cincinnati community who can say that because both Claire and Tom Ballaban made you feel that way. The loss of Mr. Ballaban will be felt by many for years to come, but as I wrote one of his grandkids earlier, his legacy lives on through them – through the family and friends that he touched. I knew him as a father and grandfather and a prolific story teller! I could sit and listen to his stories for hours – he made me laugh until my sides hurt! His daughter, Sandy, would always tell him to stop – that I didn’t want to hear anymore, but I DID! Time flew by when he would tell a story or share an experience. He ALWAYS had a twinkle in his eye and he always looked you in the eye when he spoke to you. When I first met him, he referred to me as “the blonde one” – he was so endearing! One of my favorite things about Mr. Ballaban was his hands – they were huge and soft, and yet strong and gentle. I never wanted to let go.
He will be missed by so many for so many reasons, but his spirit lives on through his daughters and grandchildren – for that we will be forever grateful and blessed!
My family’s thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Ballaban family ~
Linda Ruscher
Rest in peace, Coach Ballaban!
On a Friday evening in October 1966, we played Elder who was undefeated and ranked 7th in the state.
Coach Ballaban and Coach Tolbert came up with a defensive game plan which enabled us to know just what Elder was going to do (pass, run, left or right.)!
We won that game 8 to 7!
We may not have been very good in 1966 (won 4 -lost 6), but on that night we played our best!
Years later, I was able to get a video of this game.
The last time I saw Coach Ballaban was at a Sports Banquet, I gave him a copy of the game.
Dave Kress '67
When Marcia and I joined the St. X community in 1976, I had already taught more than 17 years. We were surprised to be so welcomed by the giants on the St. X faculty, not as rookies but as their contemporaries. Among them especially were Tom and Claire Ballaban. They could not have been kinder or more welcoming. From that first Fall, we were fans of Tom's teams and loved the faculty gatherings after in the "Rainbow Room." His is a great, great loss for all those who love St. X and its traditions and a personal loss for us.
Marcia and Paul Hendrick
I knew Tom more as a ref ...than as a Coach. I played at Indian Hill Class of '68 & Tom along with Smitty would ref our BB games my senior year. He called two Techs on me ...... for discussing...... his real bad calls on me! Later I would see Tom at River Downs and talk about whether ....he my coach Joe Clark or Mancuso @ Princeton were the BEST! Please give my best to the ST X family that has indeed lost two of their finer!
David A. DeBra
I never played football for 'Coach Bal' (several of the Reilly brothers did) but had him in class ( Health and Gym) and I'm certain he was directly responsible for some of my heartiest laughter and smiles at X when I was a student and in the years since. Many speakers at the annual Sports Stag took a distant back seat to his sometimes lengthy and always hilarious introductions as the MC. I can't really say or type his name without smiling and that says something.
The Great Coaches Office ' in the Sky' was enhanced substantially this week at the expense of our community- but I'm sure Coaches Berning and Rasso saved him a prime spot. God Bless his family as much as we were all blessed with sharing Bals spirit and good nature so well and for so long.
Kevin Reilly '82
Tom was a beloved protege of my grandfather, Dan Tehan. He loved Tom so much.
I was blessed to play for him and to this day, I've never stopped thinking of him...and what his insight into life was important, and how it molded my life....
God bless Bal and his girls...what an incredible legacy...
Joe Deters '75
Tom Ballaban was old-school in every sense of the word. Although I never had Tom as a teacher, I knew his reputation from classmates who had him either as a teacher or a coach. But then when I started as a teacher in 1976, he was one of the very first to welcome me on board and told me that the secret to success at STX was to learn names of students and parents, but more importantly get to know the secretaries, the custodians and the kitchen workers. He said that they were the people that made the school work on a daily basis. After my 38 plus years at StX, those words still ring true.
There was a lot of wisdom in his stories and his commentaries on life in general. While some of it would make you shake your head, the vast majority was valuable and still rings true in my mind. He wanted us all to keep perspective on the trendy and new, reminding us that much of what worked before will still work if we commit to it.
My sympathies extend to Clare and his daughters. On more than one occasion, I saw or heard him show real care and concern no matter how much he might talk when they were not around. I know he loved them and was proud of them.
Mark M. Wilkins '66
Sorry to hear of the loss of a good man and a good friend.
John Harshaw
Robert A Taft Class of 1959
Mr. Ballaban was my coach for three years. He was a tremendous influence in my life. Even today I find myself using Ballabanism. Who could ever forget the bus rides to practice on the Gallentin County bus.
Coach was a stand up comedian as well as a coach. He made two a days tolerable. You had the feeling he cared for you as a young man as well as a player. I have held him in high esteem all my life. I can visualize coach with a whistle around his neck whipping the angels into shape. My sympathy to Mrs. Ballaban and his daughters (who always could out run me).
Few people can pass thru live and leave as big foot print as Coach.
Rest easy Coach.
Butch OConnell '58
Tom Ballaban was one of the three(3)most important men in my life-my father and a long time business mentor being the other two(2).
I had the privilege of playing football for Coach Ballaban in his first three(3) years as the Head Coach-'53, '54 & '55. I got to know him first as my Freshman History teacher. What a trip that was!
I have never met a man personally who had a greater combination of kindness and toughness combined with a wonderful sense of humor.
Coach Bal will be missed by me, and many others.
Don Lynch '56
Words are inadequate to describe the difference Coach Bal made in thousands of young mens lives. He was a teacher, coach, mentor, counselor, disciplinarian, comedian and ultimately a friend. He challenged each and everyone of us to do our best in whatever activity we undertook.
I was lucky to know Coach well before I came to St. X. My father, Jack Mulvihill, was a huge supporter of XU, particularly the athletics program. He was Coach's sponsor when he came to XU in the late 40's. As a sponsor, my dad tried to ease Bal's transition to Cincinnati and ensure he had a home cooked meal from time to time.
When my two older brothers attended St. X, my dad regaled us with stories of Coach Bal. As I began freshman football, Coach pulled me aside and told me how special my "daddy" was and what a high standard I had to meet if I was to do the Mulvihill name proud. When my dad died during my junior year, Coach was there for me and helped me thru a difficult time.
In September, Coach made a rare trip back to Cincy to join the 1964 football team in celebrating our 50 year reunion as part of the Class of '65's year long 50th reunion activities. The very first thing he said to me was how great my "daddy" was. Once again Bal touched my heart.
Coach honored us by allowing us to honor him that night. Everyone of my classmates was moved by Bal's words and we were lucky to have had the opportunity to be with him one last time. It was a night we will never forget.
Coach, thank you for being a living example of what it means to be a Man for Others. Your spirit lives on in our hearts.
May you rest in peace and may the perpetual light shine upon you.
Bill Mulvihill '65
Even if we didn't play football under Mr. Ballaban, he still treated us all as if he were our coach. And we responded as if we were his players. I still jumped to attention at our 40th reunion, when I realized he was standing behind me, just off my right shoulder. He was moving more quietly at that point, but his presence was still commanding.
Tom Dorsel '64
I am not sure I retained a lot of historical fact from my freshman history class with Coach Ballaban except for the concept of history as story. Tom Ballaban was a great story teller.
I was one of those freshman who Tom would describe (turning sideways to the class) as built like this from the front. I wish it were still so.
Thanks Coach for all the memories, especially the one great win over Moeller. May God's peace be with you.
John (Jack) Hambene '73
Mr. Ballaban was St. Xavier to me. As a Freshman, he was stern, funny, and fair. He treated us like men. He held us accountable, but was still fun about it. I have countless stories of him knowing my uncle, and how he called me "the weiner kid" for 4 years because he worked for Kahns to him just playfully slugging you as you walked down the hall. How he used to always say his dog took our tests before he gave them to us, and of course, let us know his score prior to us taking it. His dedication and commitment to St. Xavier is unparalleled. Words don't do him and his service justice. We are all better for having him as part of our family.
God bless you Mr. Ballaban, and thank you for being you.
Daniel Geoppinger '96
Tom was a good friend. I enjoyed playing football for him. I enjoyed working with him. I enjoyed listening to his many stories, especially when Pat Boyle was with him. His care for others and wit will be missed by many generations of Bombers.
Paul Borgmann '58
Great coach and mentor- for those that may remember, he delivered one of the best pre-game anecdotes (involving pocket pool) prior to the ’75 season home opener against Upper Arlington. The team roared in laughter, stormed out of the student lounge basement and upset a highly ranked ranked UA team that night.
To a good friend later in my life,
Richard Tranter '76
It is difficult for me to express the impact that Coach Ballaban had on our son Chip. Chip played football under Coach Rasso ( RIP ) but had Coach Ballaban for class. The Coach took a special interest in Chip and made learning fun........called him by a special nickname....and for years whenever we would run into him at a St. X event, he never failed to ask how Chip's college football career was coming along. God only puts a few special people in a young man's life who make a difference for a lifetime......but Coach Ballaban certainly was one of those people in our son's life. We are forever grateful.
Judge Sylvia Hendon
My condolences to Claire and daughters in the passing of Tom, a great husband, father and coach. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
My association with Bal was football in 1953, the first year he was head coach at St. X. No one on the team will ever forget him and his intense spirit. The phrase "good enough" was never in his vocabulary because he pushed all of us to be the best we could be both on and off the field.
Our record in 1953 was four wins and five losses. You would have thought we were super bowl champs because we had one more win than the previous three years combined. I truly believe our success was due to Bal and his desire for each player to do his very best at practice and every game. Anything less was unacceptable.
Playing football at St. X. was not easy in those days. The twenty-five minute bus ride from 7th and Sycamore to Riverside Park on the west side and back after practice made it a long day. Bal's enthusiasm, good humor and caring made it all worthwhile.
Claire, thank you and your daughters for sharing Bal with us. We are all better off for that experience.
Peace be with all of you at this very difficult time.
Ken Lohr '54
The first game coach Tom Ballaban mentored was St.X versus Hamilton Catholic at Xavier University's Corcoran Field. Halftime of a 0-0 game, Coach Ballaban entered the locker room and said he had a special play for us to use in the second half. we practiced the play in the locker room. Late in the third quarter, still 0-0, our messenger guard came running in from the sidelines and said that coach wanted the special play. It was called flood the zone right and it was the only score in a 7-0 victory- a completed pass from Paul Reinerman to Kenny Lohr.
Jim Ross '56
I remember Coach Ballaban as a superb coach, dedicated teacher, and all around great role model.
Richard Kolkoski '63
When I was a Cincinnati Post newspaper carrier in North Avondale around 1950 and delivered to Xavier U. Students housed in Marion Hall, as it was then called, Coach was a dormie . And I believe he may have roomed with Charlie Squeri. Many of Xavier’s players lived in that dorm. I was a teenager then , and at home games played at Corcoran Field, my route was as close to the stadium as one could get , and I could hear the roar of the stadium crowd. How I wished that I could have been present at those games but then I had papers to be distributed. I idolized the Xavier team and all of its players. Coach was one of them. Coach was a great guy. Newspapers were probably about 8-10 cents in those days. Coach always paid his bills. I always rooted for Tom. He has completed his final pass. RIP
Skip Fellinger
I first met him when I was part of the Summer Enrichment Program starting in 1970. From the very beginning , he always left me with a sense of confidence & "can do" abilities about my academic & "limited athletic -talents" smile!!!!!
Throughout my 4 years at St.X (1971-1975), I found his consistent "rock of Gibraltar" spirit to be calming & inspiring.
Joe Steele '75
I am very saddened to learn of Coach Tom Ballaban’s passing. He taught me in my freshman year at St. Xavier High School, 1954-1955, and he remains now, 60 years later, the best remembered of my teachers that first year. He impressed me enormously. I was a nerdy little guy who had never done well at any sport in elementary school, and I had consequently never encountered a man like him. After eight years of having been taught exclusively by nuns, I was at first intimidated by him, but that stage passed quickly as I learned that his strictness was accompanied by unfailing fairness and genuine, concerned commitment to his students and their success. Thanks to him I learned a lot that year, and not just about the subject matter of his course. He taught me by example and by motivation to be disciplined, to take my responsibilities seriously, and to do the work I was assigned faithfully and to the best of my ability. I’m sorry to say I never did get any better at sports, but that’s beside the point, because in truth he was as much our coach in the classroom as he was the coach of his players on the football field. I started out that year as a rather poor student, but I credit his classroom coaching for turning me into a good student in all my subsequent years of education. I offer my condolences to his family and his many friends on the loss of this wonderful man.
Don Leonard ‘59
I was sorry to get notice that Coach Ballaban passed away.
If memory serves me I believe I was in one of the first classes he taught in 1952. Some of the players who were in my class:
Ken Schuerman, John Bankemper, Dick Ulrich, Dave Albanese,Don Lynch, T. Kollmeyer,Jerry Comello. There were more but I can't bring them to recall after sixty two years.
It's hard to believe we are just about same age as COACH.
If I recall we were in CLASS 1B.
He will be in my memory.
Frank S. Rolttmueller '56
I've been near Tom here in Florida for almost 10 years. He was one of the most unique men I have known. Tom, while being the funniest person I knew, was also compassionate, sensitive and dedicated to family. These qualities as well as many others made him very special. But I am a lucky man. I will have his memory close to me forever. All I need do is look up to see those qualities in my wife Sandy and all his daughters. Tom and Claire you have succeeded in your most important role. "FAMILY "
Rick Mueller
Dear Ballaban family,
I just wanted to take a minute and share how Coach Ballaban touched our family.
My dad (Ed Horgan III- Saint X class of 1960) grew up in a single parent household in Price Hill.
He would tell me about his youth and how he was not heading down the right path as a young person.
Tom was his teacher and football coach. More importantly, he was the positive male role model that he needed during this time in his life.
From my dad's stories, Tom took him under his wing and gave him direction when no one else was providing it. He changed my dad's path and as a result gave my dad the opportunity to have a great life.
I was also lucky to have known Tom as my World Cultures and American History teacher while a student at St X.
Tom Ballaban left more of an impression on me than any other teacher I had ever had.
I still use many of his quotes of wisdom to my kids - one example: "you are not outstanding, you are standing out!"
He was similar to a stand up comic while teaching class, and I have never laughed so hard - but also had never learned so much.
What a great man - my condolences to your family.
Sincerely,
Ed Horgan '86
Sportswriters often referred to "Bal" as "fiery Tom Ballaban". This truly fiery football Coach not only loved to win, he often did innovative things to confuse opponents. For example, he rolled the dice to tweak the fabled Oklahoma "Eagle" Defense, a five man line and four linebackers. Bal left Louie Rouse and me in place as outside linebackers. However, he took Jim Rave and Bob Brenner as "inside backers" and then had them stand up in the line, giving us a seven man line look, very tough to run against and leaving lots of "second and nine" situations. This great defensive move confused both Purcell and Elder who had great running games, letting us win first place in the GCL--and having beaten Central, the public school champs, allowed the 1957 Bombers to claim the Cincinnati City Championship. We were winners on the field, and Bal was Coach of The Year. Bal was so much fun to play for; and his sense of humor made him a much sought after speaker at sports stags across the region. He was a roll model to me in the ultimate game of life because of his integrity; he vocalized lessons of morality, how to treat EVERY player on the team, and was a model of how to include his supportive and loving wife, Claire. Bal delivered his messages to teenagers with great humor, often using his daughters' derring-do as coaching benchmarks: 'Patty Ann could have thrown the ball farther! -- Even my daughter Mary Sue, or Karen Marie could have caught that one!' He was loved by many, and will surely be missed by his many communities, alma mater XU, and St X, his wife, family, and me.
Jack Green '59, Co-Captain (with the late Pat Boyle of the 1958 Bombers)
I met BAL as a Freshman in one of his classes. No longer coaching, he was a great influence on me and others in our class. Full of sayings to help boys become young men, "It's better to be outstanding than standing out" was one of my personal favorites. He was full of wit and great stories which really helped connect all past, present and future generations of Bombers. Perhaps most enjoyable for me personally, I really enjoyed the Monday commentary after both football and basketball games, always the coach!
A great family man, my deepest sympathies to Claire and his daughters. Such a cool family. The world lost a good one that touched so many in so many ways. If we could all be so fortunate.
Christian Walters '88
TOM BALLABAN MADE ME LAUGH DURING HISTORY CLASS , WE LAUGHED TOGETHER AT WORK AT RIVER DOWNS RACE TRACK AND I LAUGHED AT HIS HUMOR AS A MC FOR THE YEARLY ATHLETIC AWARDS BANQUET. I AM PROUD TO HAVE KNOW MR. BALLABAN AND AM PROUD TO HAVE TAUGHT HIS GRANDSON THE CATHOLIC FAITH AT ALL SAINTS CCD CLASS. I KNOW MR. BALLABAN HAS THE ANGELS AND SAINTS LAUGHING IN HEAVEN.
STEVE LEVERONE '67
I have always remembered the time I was hanging out in the street in front of the Ballaban residence (he did have several daughters) on a Saturday afternoon. I was likely just a freshman at the time.
Mr. Ballaban walked out of the front door and yelled over- Hey, you want to go watch some football? I graciously accepted and he took me to the Roger Bacon v Purcell game. I do not think he even knew my name but that has always impressed me to this day as to what a warm, friendly man he was.
Steve Kuhn ‘75
I have fond memories of Coach Bal. I played for him on the St. X football teams during the 1966 and 1967 seasons. He could be tough when needed, but he had a sizeable chunk of soft heart. Most importantly, he cared about his players, and we knew it.
I always suspected that a big reason Bal coached high-school sports was because he had a captive audience. Coach was a natural performer. During practice, he'd get us linemen together and tell us how we were the heart of the team, how great we were, not like those big-ego backs … all with a twinkle in his eyes. Then he'd gather the backs and tell them how they were the heart of the team. All we could do was laugh. Besides, not only was Coach a kick to watch, these short performances got us out of some demanding drills.
Coach Bal had an especially positive impact on me, more than he ever knew. I, and all his players, learned much more from our high-school coach than just how to play football. He taught us how to live.
Jerome P. (Jerry) Walker '68
Coach Bal was plain and simple fantastic. He was not only a great coach and teacher but he was good to every student based on tough love. Going to St. X downtown was not a walk in the park, but he made it fun. He would occasionally pick on somebody who was out of line but never on someone who could not take it. He is what I call a great man, sticks up for his friends and family. There will never be another person like him. God bless him and his lovely family.
Jim Gerwin '60
Tom Ballaban was more than a coach to those of us who had the good fortune to play football for him. He was a mentor who taught each of us how to be a man. He was humorous and respectful to others. He took a genuine interest in each student. He always addressed me by name, even several decades after graduation from St. X. My favorite memory of Bal took place on a Friday evening in the fall of 1966 when he boarded the team bus after a stunning 8-7 victory over the Elder Panthers at the Pit and he said: “The only thing sweeter would have been if it were 7 ½ to 7!”
May he rest in peace.
H. Patrick Weber, Esq. ‘67
You know, when I think of St. Xavier High School, the two people that immediately come to mind are Father Ed Piggott, and Coach Ballaban.
I graduated in 1975, and had the pleasure to get to know Coach as a student in his class, as well as throughout the halls on North Bend Road. Coach taught me History. I can tell you that being a student in his class was quite an experience. He not only taught us the required material, but much more. Coach taught us about life, how to respect others, and how to laugh. When I think of Tom Ballaban, I immediately start smiling – everybody did! Coach was a little bit of an enigma – he was much like piece of chocolate – hard on the outside, but soft and gentle on the inside. I will always remember Coach. His impact on the “Long Blue Line” has been, and will continue to be - permanent. I will miss him.
David J. Cassady '75
I’m watching a great, NCAA Division I basketball game on TV when I see someone who looks like our high school varsity football coach in a referee’s uniform. Is that Tom Ballaban? I’m amazed that I know someone on national TV, and I’m even more amazed when I see him the next morning walking down the hall at St. X looking like he just took the redeye in from LA. His first period, freshman world history class begins with a funny story. As class rolls on, and I’ve got tears in my eyes and my stomach hurts from laughter. The class ends, and the 14 year old world history students are physically exhausted, yet Mr. Ballaban, who twelve hours earlier was refereeing a college basketball game in some far off location, is just getting warmed up for the next period. This ‘old school’, Big Red, Steubenville, Ohio native is a legend and an institution. His teaching, coaching, and laughter left giant memories of an extraordinarily unique man leading an extraordinary life, and for that, I’m thankful.
Scott Murrer '79
To me the word Ballaban means 'a break between doom and gloom'
Jim Mussio '60
Thank you dad for loving me and protecting me all my life. Thank you for showing me, by example, to be loyal and true to oneself and others. But especially, thank you for being so compassionate, funny, genuine and loving. I will forever admire most, how your cared for mom in the last 6 years. Enjoy being with God and all your loved ones who were called before you! I miss you and I will always keep you close in my heart. Rest in peace Dad!
Sandy Ballaban Mueller, Homosassa, Florida
Mr. Ballaban was my freshman year history teacher in 1955. Students played volleyball in the downtown school yard at lunchtime. One afternoon, Tom's car was in the way of setting up one of the net poles. I was closest to the classroom door and he said "Seta go move my car" and he tossed me the keys. I was thrilled to be able to do this. I was 14 and wasn't driving yet.
When I sat down, to my horror, the car was a stick shift. I had practiced on an automatic. Well I thought,...can't be that hard. I saw Bal looking out the classroom window. I started the car, released the clutch....the car lurched forward. In panic and confusion, I stepped on the gas pedal instead of the brake. I bent and took out a standing volley ball net pole.
I wanted to go home. Tom was staring out the window in disbelief....he just kept shaking his head. Damage was not too bad, but my pride was badly shattered. But Tom made the best of it. He made a joke of it so as not embarrass me in front of my classmates.
His classes were always interesting and he made learning fun.
Great memories Mr. Ballaban...God bless you.
Joe Seta '59
It has been 54 years since I last heard Coach Ballaban say "Just one more play". Gosh how I used to dread that order. But now some 54 years later I would give anything to hear those words again.
They were so reflective of the coach. To me, and I suspect many others, the coach was the symbol of strength, commitment, never give up attitude, honesty and honor.
I have never forgotten Coach Ballaban. I was quite surprised however at the impact of the news of his passing. I felt a major loss of a guiding light and a positive influence to me. I am the man that I am due in a large part to my experiences and learning with the Coach and the St. X experience overall.
I take solace in knowing that my coach still has a eye on me and will not settle for any less that my best. God Bless you Coach!!
Dave Shepherd '60
Offensive Line and Punter
I am from the St. X. class of 1980. Mr. Ballaban was one of my teachers for several years in a few classes, and if my memory is correct, I also had homeroom with him one year, if we did that back in high school; I actually can't remember, but it doesn't matter. And of course there were also the daily quick interactions he had with all of us in the hallways, assemblies, the cafeteria, and the locker room. I remember Mr. Ballaban's eternal presence while I was a student during my 4 years at 600 North Bend Road quite clearly. Anyway, my interactions with Mr. Ballaban (it was always Mr. Ballaban with me, and not Coach - he was never my coach; I didn't play football or basketball - just wrestled and later fenced downtown) were significant, and always positive despite their quirky directness in his inimitable style.
John Vester '80
Tom Ballaban was my first exposure to St. Xavier High School. He was the first teacher in my first bell (World Cultures) freshman year, and he immediately made me feel as if my parents made the right choice. Tom’s wit and “real world” explanations of the theory and history we were learning brought a tremendous perspective to a young student out in a big world for the first time. God Bless You, Tom Ballaban, for the many, many lives you’ve touched and improved as a true Man for Others. Each of us who knew you carry your joy of life to everyone else we meet!
George Zahn '77
I was saddened to learn of Bal’s passing. It was my privilege to have been his friend and co-worker for nearly 50 years. To say Bal was one-of-a-kind is an understatement!
As I remember Bal, I could tell many stories. Talking with many St. X alums through the years at class reunions or wherever, more than a few told me how Bal mentored them as freshmen and gave them the encouragement they needed to continue at St. X. Without his mentoring, some would not have returned to St. X for the sophomore year.
At faculty and staff parties at St. X in the 1970’s, a number of us would bring our young children to these parties which were held in the Rainbow Room (school cafeteria). As young kids are inclined to do, they would be causing havoc by running and chasing each other recklessly around the room. Unannounced, Bal would pull his referee’s whistle from his pocket. (Like an American Express card, he never left home without it.) After giving a shrill blast of his whistle, Bal would order the youngsters to stand in line and not move until he gave them the order to do so. After a minute or two of having them stand quietly at attention, he would blow the whistle and give them the OK to move around again. I think this was the precursor of what today’s young parents call putting their kids in “time out.”
I have many good memories of Bal. He was special!
Nancy and I extend our thoughts and prayers to Claire and the Ballaban daughters and the entire family. Rest in Peace, Bal!
Dick Klus
More than 35 years away from my graduation and 2,000 miles from 600 North Bend Road, it’s a rare day when, in the quiet of my mind, I don’t hear Coach Ballaban saying, “It’s better to be outstanding than standing out.” I smile thinking about an October Sunday when a couple of teammates and I were late to the review of the Friday night game film because we had snuck out to Wendy’s to pick up lunch. The assistant coaches were not amused and let us know that in no certain terms. What did Bal do? He quietly pulled two singles out of his wallet and took the burger that was on my desk.
Bill Donahoe '78
I have fond memories of Coach Ballaban as a St. X coach and faculty member, as a Big Ten basketball referee, and as the father of the young lady who was my first date.
May he rest eternally in God’s loving embrace.
Ron Lenzer '70
I remember a man with an acerbic sense of humor that told me many times “you know why the Germans lost the war in No. Africa, a corporal named Stiens forgot to bring the gas”. I remember this man with broad sloping shoulders, long arms and hands the size of catchers mitts. He was only about 5’10” tall but he had these huge hands. Coach Ballaban gave me my chance to play in the second game in my junior year when our DB got hurt. I had never practiced or player that position before but he asked me if I thought I could do it. I said sure coach! I never missed a defensive down from then on. Coach was a kind, fair but demanding leader. He threw barbs but never demeaned a player. He treated everyone with respect. I have told many people over the years, including my grandson that Coach’s style and closeness to his players helped forge my style of football and baseball coaching later in my life. I also understand why he coached. There is no better
feeling than seeing and helping boys become men. I saw coach several times in college when he would referee a basketball game at Ohio Univ. He was always happy to see an X player. I wrote him several times in the last few years and received a nice letter and memento from him. Coach Ballaban and football had a profound impact on my journey to manhood. I was just and average student at X but football elevated my spirit and gave me a sense of belonging. Coach made that happen. For this I thank him and love him. He will always be in my memory.
Ray Stiens '64
My fondest memories of Tom are from his days of seeing him in the faculty mailroom at St. X. He would always have that smile and gleam in his eyes, no matter what kind of a day he was having. I will always remember listening to the many stories he would tell, too. He had such a way of telling stories that kept you captivated for a very long time!!! Heaven gained another wonderful member of the St. Xavier community this week…so ironic that we lost two legends within nine days of each other. RIP, Bal...I know you and Dick and Steve are all having a great time in Heaven telling stories and laughing at jokes.
Rosie Bernard
Tom Ballaban, I want to say your $36.00 debt is forgiven. Why? Because you gave me so many chances to succeed in life. Giving up $12.00 from delivering Sunday Morning Enquirers that you said you would pay me if I didn’t do it for the next three GCL games.That was easy. Tom allowed me to be a starter both ways my senior year. Then convinced the Dayton Football Coaches to give me a scholarship. When academics at St. X were very challenging, Tom mentored me to make the grades.
Lastly the opportunity to come back and coach with Him was very rewarding and grateful experience. Yes, We will always remember the (fake 37 slant pass) and today it would still work because we all believe in him. Thanks Tom
Pat O'Leary '57
Assist. coach 1970-1971
As a member of the Class of 1965, I played for Coach Bal my junior and senior years at St. Xavier. What a great experience! One of my best remembrances of Bal was the pep talk he gave each year at the beginning of summer practice while everyone sat in the bleachers in the hot sun.
Bal would tell the team that practice was going to be tough, that all positions were open, and that he would show no favoritism because he wasn’t running for sheriff. Everyone heeded Bal’s words.
Shortly after I graduated from law school in 1972, Bal ran for sheriff of Hamilton County. What a difference a few years make and how fitting.
RIP
Mark G. Arnzen ’65