In the storied history of Toledo City League basketball, few players have left a mark as deep and unforgettable as Sheree’s Ulis (McBrayer). A three-time City League Player of the Year and two-time District Player of the Year, Shereese’s legacy is one of resilience, perseverance, and unparalleled talent. Through her high school career, she battled through some of the league’s toughest competition, repeatedly proving her dominance and earning a place among the legends of Ohio high school basketball.

Dominance on the Court

From her junior season, where she led the City League in scoring with 19.1 points per game, 6 assists, and 4 steals, Sheree commanded attention. Her accolades are numerous: three-time First Team All-District, two-time First Team All-State, and MVP of the North/South All-Star Game. She was a nominee for the prestigious McDonald’s All-American team and was named Ohio State Player of the Year. Sheree’s incredible stats and honors are a testament to her skill and drive, but they only tell part of her story.

Rising from the Cherrywoods

Fourteen years later, Sheree reflects on her journey, remembering her roots in Toledo’s Cherrywoods neighborhood—a place where survival was often as challenging as her on-court opponents. She recalls the hardship of growing up around violence, where gunshots were all too common and dreams were hard to come by. Raised in an environment where many lacked a clear vision or foundation for the future, Sheree found solace and purpose in basketball.

The game entered her life when she was 12, inspired by watching Allen Iverson play on TV. That spark was all she needed. Without prior experience or knowledge of the game, she dedicated herself to becoming not just good but great. She couldn’t dribble with her left hand or make a layup at first, yet her commitment drove her to master these skills and more, transforming her into a player who would carry her family’s name with pride and break new ground as the first in her family to achieve these milestones.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Basketball became Shereese’s ticket to a brighter future and a way to inspire those around her. She didn’t just play for personal accolades—she played for her family, her community, and the legacy she would leave behind. Now, as she adds “Hall of Famer” to her list of accomplishments, she recognizes her journey as more than a collection of trophies and titles. It’s a story of hope, strength, and the ability to rise above any challenge.

Shereese Ulis (McBrayer) exemplifies what it means to be a champion both on and off the court. She turned obstacles into opportunities, and by doing so, she paved the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy will inspire young athletes who are looking for hope, for an example, and for a reminder that greatness can come from even the most difficult circumstances. Today, we celebrate Sheree—a true legend, a Toledo City League Hall of Famer, and a symbol of what hard work and resilience can achieve.

Introduction:
In the world of track and field, stories of remarkable individuals rising from humble beginnings to international prominence are not uncommon. Erik Kynard’s journey from a talented young athlete at Toledo Rogers High School to becoming a US Olympian in 2012 is a true testament to the power of determination, hard work, and unwavering passion. With sheer talent and an unyielding drive, Kynard’s path to the Olympics serves as an inspiring tale for aspiring athletes everywhere.

Early Passion and Talent:
Erik Kynard’s tryst with track and field began during his years at Toledo Rogers High School in Ohio. Displaying a remarkable aptitude for high jump, Kynard quickly made a name for himself within the local sports community. His towering presence and natural agility caught the attention of coaches and fellow athletes alike, hinting at the great potential he held within.

Coaching and Mentorship:
Kynard’s journey was greatly influenced by the guidance and mentorship he received from his high school coaches. Recognizing his raw talent, they worked diligently to refine his technique, nurture his physical abilities, and instill in him the mental fortitude required for success at the highest levels of the sport. Their dedication to his development played a pivotal role in shaping Kynard into the athlete he would eventually become.

Dominating the High School Scene:
As Kynard’s skill continued to evolve, he began to dominate the high school track and field scene. His ability to clear impressive heights during high jump competitions drew attention not just within Ohio, but across the nation. Kynard’s accomplishments earned him recognition as one of the most promising young athletes in the discipline, setting the stage for his transition to collegiate and international competition.

Collegiate Success:
After graduating from Toledo Rogers High School, Kynard enrolled at Kansas State University, where he continued to hone his skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. His collegiate career was marked by consistent excellence, with numerous conference titles and All-American honors under his belt. Kynard’s prowess in the high jump event only grew stronger, further solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the track and field community.

Road to the 2012 Olympics:
The pinnacle of Erik Kynard’s journey came in 2012 when he represented the United States at the Summer Olympics in London. This marked the culmination of years of relentless training and competition. Kynard’s remarkable performance at the Olympic Trials secured his spot on the US Olympic team, where he would face off against the world’s best high jumpers.

Olympic Achievement and Beyond:
At the 2012 Olympics, Kynard’s talent shone brightly as he cleared impressive heights, ultimately earning a silver medal in the men’s high jump event. This achievement not only highlighted his remarkable skill but also served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes from his hometown of Toledo and beyond. Kynard’s journey from a young track phenom at Toledo Rogers High School to a podium finish at the Olympics demonstrated the transformative power of dedication and perseverance.

Conclusion:
Erik Kynard’s rise from a standout high school athlete to a US Olympian in 2012 is a story that resonates with athletes of all levels. His journey embodies the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of mentorship. Kynard’s achievements stand as a testament to the potential within every aspiring athlete, illustrating that with the right combination of talent, guidance, and determination, the heights of success are attainable.

JoJuan Armour’s life in football is a testament to his dedication both on and off the field. His journey from a high school star in Toledo to an NFL and CFL player, and now a community leader and coach, exemplifies his commitment to the sport and his city.

High School Glory at Central Catholic
JoJuan Armour began his football career at Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio. As a linebacker and running back, Armour quickly made a name for himself. He was a two-time first-team All-City selection and received second-team Division I All-Ohio honors. His outstanding performances led him to be named Toledo City League Player of the Year in 1994, marking him as one of the top high school athletes in the region.

College Stardom at Miami University
Continuing his football journey, Armour attended Miami University in Ohio, where he solidified his reputation as a formidable linebacker. During his college career, he was a three-time All-MAC selection and won the MAC Defensive Player of the Year award twice. Armour amassed 396 total tackles and 24.5 sacks, culminating in a third-team All-American selection in his senior year. His achievements at Miami University set the stage for his professional career.

Professional Career in the NFL and CFL
Armour was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He found more playing time with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played from 1999 to 2002. Following his NFL stint, Armour transitioned to the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he played for the BC Lions, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and Calgary Stampeders. He capped his professional playing career with a Grey Cup victory with Calgary in 2008 before retiring in 2010.

Giving Back to Toledo: Football Camps and Community Initiatives
Even during his professional career, Armour remained committed to giving back to his hometown of Toledo. He organized football camps for young athletes, providing them with opportunities to learn from a professional and gain valuable skills. His camps focused not just on athletic development but also on fostering discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic among the youth.

After retiring from professional football, Armour continued his community involvement by working closely with the city of Toledo and the Mayor’s office on various initiatives. One of his significant contributions has been his involvement in the Gun Violence Prevention initiative. Armour’s work in this area focuses on reducing gun violence and creating safer environments for young people in Toledo. By leveraging his influence and experience, he has helped shape programs that aim to provide positive alternatives and support for at-risk youth.

Coaching Career and Continued Impact
In his post-playing career, Armour has transitioned into coaching, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes. He served as a defensive lineman coach at Whitmer High School in Toledo before being named head coach at Reynoldsburg High School. Armour’s coaching philosophy emphasizes character development, academic achievement, and community involvement alongside athletic excellence.

His dedication to coaching and community service has not gone unnoticed. Armour was nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award, an honor that recognizes high school coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, and a commitment to player health and safety.

Legacy and Impact
JoJuan Armour’s journey from high school standout to professional athlete and community leader is a testament to his unwavering dedication to football and his hometown of Toledo. His contributions on the field are matched by his efforts to make a positive impact off the field, through coaching, community service, and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people. Armour’s legacy is one of perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

Through his work, JoJuan Armour continues to inspire and influence countless young athletes and community members, demonstrating that true success lies in using one’s talents and opportunities to benefit others. His story is a powerful example of how sports can be a vehicle for positive change and community development (JoJuan Armour – Wikipedia) (Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award | NFL Play Football).