Perrysburg Tennis Alumni Launch Statue and Legacy Fund Project in Honor of Beloved Coach Al Rava
PERRYSBURG, OH – A dedicated group of Perrysburg High School tennis alumni have come together to honor their former coach and mentor, Al Rava, by spearheading a lasting tribute at the courts that already bear his name at the City of Perrysburg’s Municipal Park (945 Elm St., Perrysburg, OH). Their goal: to fund and erect a statue in his honor and establish a legacy fund to benefit future generations of Perrysburg student-athletes.
The alumni group approached the City of Perrysburg and the Perrysburg Schools Foundation with a vision to commemorate Coach Rava—not just as a winning tennis coach, but as a larger-than-life figure who shaped countless lives both on and off the court. Though not originally from Perrysburg, Al Rava began teaching in Perrysburg in 1958 and quickly became a pillar of the community—as a physical education and math teacher, tennis coach, summer recreation director, active volunteer at St. Rose Church, and the patriarch of a family deeply woven into the fabric of Perrysburg life until his passing in 2022.
Coach Rava’s influence extended well beyond Perrysburg. He played a key role in growing the sport of tennis across the Toledo region, teaching at numerous clubs, officiating tournaments, and mentoring generations of players with his trademark energy and warmth. Former players say his support never stopped—decades after their high school days, Coach Rava would check in with them, offer career and life advice, and always remind them of the importance of kindness, integrity, and community.
“Nice guys, no jerkies!” was one of Coach’s signature phrases—and a philosophy he lived daily.
“It is because of this profound impact on our lives that this group of former players came forward to honor our coach,” said Chad Pike, Class of 1989. “But we also hope to inspire others to join us in this effort—not only through a permanent tribute at the park, but through a fund managed by the Perrysburg Schools Foundation that supports the tennis program and other athletic needs. Coach believed in shaping young people into ‘Nice guys, no jerkies!’—and we want to keep that spirit alive.”
Jeff Abke, Class of 1996 and Director of Development and Alumni Relations, added: “It is wonderful that these Yellow Jackets, and the City of Perrysburg, are supporting this tribute to Coach Rava. Through teaching, coaching, volunteering, and being a tremendous family man, he impacted generations. This project ensures that his legacy will live on for many more.”
About the Artist: Jason Johnston
The statue honoring Coach Rava is being created by Perrysburg native and acclaimed sculptor Jason Johnston, a tennis player who learned the game under Coach Rava’s guidance. Johnston, who comes from a local tennis family, brings both artistic talent and personal connection to this tribute.
Jason Johnston is known for his figurative sculptures and public art installations around the country. More about his work may be found at Johnston Sculpture Studio on Facebook.
Community Invitation
The community is warmly invited to the unveiling of the Coach Al Rava statue on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Perrysburg. The event will be open to all and will celebrate Coach Rava’s life, legacy, and lasting impact on our community.
To support the Coach Al Rava Tribute Project and make a gift to the legacy fund, please visit:
https://bit.ly/CoachAlRava
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