The Ohio State career may be over, but the story is still inspirational.

The Ken Gordon book “Buckeye Dreams: The Tyler “Tank” Whaley Story” is about the climb of Whaley, the former Ironton and Ohio State standout, from an obscure walk-on to starting fullback in the national championship game.

Copies of the book are still available. Anyone who is interested should contact his mother Tammy Voglesong at Tipton’s Traditions at (740) 532-1618.

Although Tyler is living in Columbus, he visits often and would be more than happy to autograph the book.

Roach a letter winner

After winning three varsity letters in football for the Ironton Fighting Tigers, sophomore Bruce Roach has his first college letter.

Roach, a 5-foot-11, 230-pound defensive lineman at Otterbein College in Westerville, earned his first letter this past season and received the monogram at the annual football banquet on Jan. 25.

Bruce is the son of Donald (Bruce) and Vicki Roach of Ironton.

Otterbein was 9-2 last season and advanced to the NCAA Division III championship for the first time in history. The Cardinals set a school record for wins and most points scored (427).

Portsmouth applies to SOC

Just as I reported in December, Portsmouth applied for membership to the Southern Ohio Conference along with South Gallia last week.

Although Portsmouth has applied, there must be a waiting period of two regular meetings and it will take a three-fourths vote to be accepted. If all current 16 members vote, the Trojans would need 12 affirmative votes.

Portsmouth, currently a member of the Southeastern Ohio Athletic League, would play in the SOC Division II larger school division. South Gallia, an independent, would play in the Division I smaller school division.

—— Sinatra ——

Jim Walker is sports editor of The Ironton Tribune.