The only football coach in Turpin's 26-year history is stepping down. Bob Berta, who began the program from scratch in 1976, told his players last week he was resigning. Turpin finished 4-6 this season, 139-116-2 in Berta's tenure.

        “It's a combination of things, but it's time for me to step down,” Berta said. “It's my 30th year as a teacher in Ohio, so I can retire, which I intend to do. But I'm still interested in coaching. I'm not ready to give that up entirely.”

        Berta, 54, has sent more than 60 players to college programs. Notables include defensive back Tristan Moss (class of '90), who was an all-MAC player at Western Michigan and was a final cut by the Philadelphia Eagles. Berta also coached standout tailback Rick Haynes in the late 1970s (“The best all-around male athlete Turpin has ever had, in my opinion”) and all-state center Mike Glassmeyer in the early '90s.

        The 2001 team included standout linebacker Zach Condo, who broke the school record for tackles in one season (196).

        Turpin's peak year was 1995, with its only playoff appearance (Division II) and a Queen City Conference title.

        ALL-STARS: St. Xavier offensive tackle Kyle Ralph and Reading tailback DeShawn Wynn are among 400 nominees for the second annual U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a national prep football all-star game in San Antonio on Jan.5.

        The game, modeled after the McDonald's All-America basketball game, will pit the nation's best players in an East vs. West format.

        Two 40-man teams will be finalized by the end of November. Tom Lemming, a recruiting analyst who contributes to ESPN and others, will coordinate the selection process.

        OFF TO COLLEGE: Roger Bacon goalkeeper Sherry Slye has accepted a scholarship to the University of Cincinnati.

        CLASSIFIEDS:

        Monroe needs a varsity assistant wrestling coach. Call coach Craig Wilms at 513-304-8386 or e-mail cwilms@fuse.net.

        Harmony Community seeks games for the 2001-02 season in girls basketball (varsity/reserve), boys freshman basketball, invitational track meets and baseball (varsity/reserve). Call principal Dan Mooney, 513-921-5260.

        Contact Tom Groeschen at 768-8450; fax: 768-8550; e-mail: tgroeschen@enquirer.com.
       

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