Congratulations to Barrhead Composite High School’s teacher and coach Rod Callihoo, on being inducted into the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame!
From the ASAA Facebook page:
“A Legacy Forged in Gold: Coach Rod Callihoo – ASAA Hall of Fame Inductee!
The Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA) proudly enshrines a true titan of high school coaching, Rod Callihoo, into its Hall of Fame! For years, Coach Callihoo has been more than just a mentor on the sidelines; he has been the architect of success, the builder of character, and a profound influence on countless student-athletes in Alberta.
His remarkable tenure coaching the Gryphons speaks volumes, boasting an astounding 80% win rate over his illustrious career. Beyond regular season triumphs, Coach Callihoo’s teams have consistently excelled in tournament play, amassing an incredible 44 gold medals and 22 silver medals out of 96 tournaments entered – a feat made even more impressive considering the competition often included larger 4A schools.
Coach Callihoo’s dominance extended to Zone championships, where his teams captured 9 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal. However, it was at the 3A Provincial level where his coaching brilliance truly shone:
2008 (Assistant Coach), 2009, 2010 (firs year as head coach), 2015, 2017,2018, 2022: 1st Place
2013, 2014, 2016, 2019: 2nd Place
2021: 3rd Place
2022: 1st Place (A triumphant end to his high school coaching career!)
Coach Callihoo’s impact resonates far beyond provincial banners. He has fostered a culture of excellence that has propelled 25 of his athletes to pursue their passion at the post-secondary and even professional levels in volleyball – a testament to his exceptional guidance and development of talent.
Even after concluding his remarkable high school coaching journey, Coach Callihoo’s dedication to the sport and to young athletes remains unwavering. This past summer, he led the U19 Men’s Alberta volleyball team to yet another gold medal at the North American Indigenous Games in Halifax.
Rod Callihoo has undeniably built an enduring and amazing legacy for volleyball in his town and across Alberta. His unparalleled level of commitment, the sacrifices he has made, and the positive influence he has had on countless young lives epitomize the very qualities we seek in a coach and a leader of student-athletes. His induction into the ASAA Hall of Fame is a richly deserved recognition of a truly exceptional career and a lasting impact on Alberta high school sports.
Congratulations, Coach Callihoo! Your golden touch will be remembered for generations.”
Image and text courtesy of the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association