Howard Kitzmiller

Howard Kitzmiller served as Poland High School’s head basketball coach from 1950 to 1964, building one of the most successful coaching records in school history. Over 12 seasons, he compiled an outstanding 172–78 record (.688 winning percentage) and established Poland as a perennial championship contender.

During his tenure, Kitzmiller led the Bulldogs to five Tri-County League Championships (1953–54, 1954–55, 1957–58, 1961–62, and 1963–64), five Sectional Championships (1954–55, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1959–60, and 1960–61), and three Firebelly Tournament titles (1957, 1958, and 1959).

His 1954–55 team set school records for 17 consecutive victories, 22 wins, and only two losses. The 1961–62 team opened the season by winning its first 16 games. Remarkably, Coach Kitzmiller had only one losing season during his time at Poland.

In recognition of his outstanding coaching career and contributions to the game, Howard Kitzmiller was inducted into the Ohio Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame.