The 1980 Coventry High School wrestling team was not expected by some, to successfully defend Coventry's two previous State Championship titles. Once again, the Suburban League had the two toughest Division II programs in the state of Ohio and most people in the know thought that 1980 would be Medina Highland's turn to bring home the hardware.
Early in the season, this seemed to be the case as Highland won the prestigious Medina Tournament, while Coventry finished second. But early in February, in a packed (and I do mean packed!) gymnasium at Highland High School, the Comets decided that they didn't like that second place feeling. In what many still call the most exciting high school athletic event they've ever attended, the Coventry Comets up-ended Highland (continuing their undefeated dual meet streak to 7+ years.) in an exciting and unexpected fashion. After that, the Comets could not be stopped.
They'd decided that winning another State Title was in order...and they did. Placing for the Comets were 5th place, Keith Harpster, 5th place, Frank Parvin, 3rd place, Ted Roth, 2nd place Rick Klemp and State Champions, John and Mike Potts. The 1980 Comets were coached by Dick Miller and assistants Brian Martin and David Riggs. Manager was Don Houston. Other team members included Marc Wyatt, Mike Stadvec, Jim Miller, Ken Grut, Jerry Eveleth, Steve Locher, Gregg Miller, Don Bulgrin and Kevin Patrick.