
(1-18-21) Long-time Celina Coach Dan Otten has passed away last night after his seconf battle with cancer. Otten has been a key part of several programs for the Bulldogs, including cross country, track and soccer. In the passed several years Otten was a swimming coach at Coldwater.
In 2016 Otten was diagnosed with chondrosarcoma – a cancerous tumor – in his right hip.
In 2010 Otten was presented an award from the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches –
the Coach that exhibits the three points that are in the title. Not ONLY must he exhibit sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity, he must through his example instill them in his athletes. The coaches success is not measured in wins or losses. But in his positive impact on his athletes.
Details will follow when we receive them –
Living in Indiana and not up to date on Ohio news, I just moments ago heard of Dan Otten’s passing. I am stunned and saddened. I’ve met hundreds of coaches in my forty years of coaching high school sports, and few could match Dan for self-sacrifice, devotion to his kids and his sports, integrity, and just all-around positive influence. He was so welcoming and friendly to my team and to me when we competed in his Celina Rotary Cross Country Invitational. I always looked forward to seeing him and chatting with him when we arrived. We actually crossed the state line twice this year to run at Celina because Covid caused a hole in our schedule, and Dan hosted extra meets just for teams like mine that we’re looking for a race. Typical of Dan to be looking for a way to serve others. My condolences to his family, co-workers, and athletes.
Randy Hisner
Bellmont’ High School CC Coach
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