OAK HARBOR – The B-C-S School District will soon honor the 2026 Oak Harbor Athletics Hall of Fame inductees, a group of extraordinary athletes who helped Oak Harbor High School stand out in the world of school sports. The inductees will be introduced at Rocket Stadium during the home football game against Eastwood on Friday, Oct. 2. An induction banquet and ceremony will be held at Oak Harbor High School on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 5:30 p.m.

Banquet tickets are $25 for all attendees aged 11 and over. Tickets can be purchased at the high school office by calling 419-898-6216.

The 2026 Oak Harbor Athletic Hall of Fame inductees are:

Tom Osborne – Coach (Boys Track & Field, Football)

Tom Osborne devoted more than four decades to education, athletics, and mentoring young people. A standout student-athlete at Bluffton High School and the University of Toledo, he began his teaching and coaching career at Cardinal Stritch High School before joining Oak Harbor Schools in 1981. Over the next 28 years, he served as a teacher, coach, and junior high counselor, positively impacting generations of students and athletes. Retiring in 2009, Osborne left a lasting legacy through his dedication to Oak Harbor athletics and, most importantly, the many lives he touched along the way.

Shelly Whitaker – Class of 1991 (Softball)

Shelley Whitaker built an impressive career in athletics as both an athlete and coach. A three-sport standout at Oak Harbor High School from 1987-91, she earned All-Conference, All-District and All-State honors in volleyball and softball and helped lead teams to conference, district, and regional success. She went on to play softball at the University of Rio Grande, where she was a four-year starting catcher. Whittaker spent 22 years in collegiate athletics, including 20 years as a head softball coach, producing multiple All-Americans and academic All-Americans. She also served 14 years in collegiate administration and was named OCCAC Athletic Director of the Year three times. Her coaching accomplishments include conference championships and Coach of the Year honors, while her continued involvement in the community and athletics has made her a deserving Oak Harbor High School Hall of Fame inductee.

Nathan VanderSluis – Class of 2001 (Boys Basketball)

Nathan VanderSluis was a key contributor to Oak Harbor basketball teams that captured SBC championships in 2000 and 2001. A two-time First Team All-SBC selection and Player of the Year, VanderSluis also earned First Team All-District and Honorable Mention All-State honors in both 2000 and 2001. His accomplishments included the 2001 Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award, Gentec All Press Boys Basketball Player of the Year, OHSBCA District 7 Player of the Year, and a nomination to the McDonald’s All American High School Basketball Team.

He continued his basketball career at Miami University (Ohio), playing Division I basketball for four years—an achievement shared by only a select few Oak Harbor High School alumni. Through his talent, character, and commitment, Nate made a lasting impact on Oak Harbor basketball.

Jim Ford – Class of 1975 (Boys Golf)

Jim Ford was a four-year letter winner and one of the area’s premier golfers. From 1971–1974, he was a four-time Ottawa County tournament medalist, three-time sectional champion, four-time First Team All-District and All-League selection, and a 1974 district medalist. He finished ninth at the 1974 Ohio State Championship before continuing his career as a member of the Bowling Green State University golf team.

Ford won more than 40 individual tournaments and numerous team events, while claiming the Oak Harbor Golf Club Championship 14 times, beginning in 1973 and most recently in 2025. He held the Oak Harbor Golf Club course record for many years and in 2024 recorded the lowest score in club history with a remarkable 61. His accomplishments also include invitations to compete in the prestigious Western Amateur and Porter Cup in Canada.

Tait Miller – Class of 1996 (Wrestling)

Tait Miller was an outstanding wrestler, earning All-Ohio honors three times and capturing the State Championship at 135 pounds in 1995. He also finished 6th in State at 135 lbs. in both 1994 and 1996. He held the school record for takedowns, and he finished as a runner-up at the prestigious Ironman Tournament in 1995, widely recognized as one of the most challenging high school wrestling tournaments in the nation. A four-year letterman, Miller was known not only for his accomplishments but for his unmatched work ethic. He consistently set the standard in the wrestling room, pushing both himself and his teammates to improve every day. His dedication, success, and character make him a truly deserving Oak Harbor High School Athletic Hall of Fame inductee.