By Sheila Vilvens
Lockland Local Schools announces the appointment of Ryan Erkins as the new head football coach at Lockland High School. Erkins brings a decade of coaching experience and a passion for youth development to the Panthers’ football program.
A Cincinnati native, Erkins graduated from Walnut Hills High School in 2007, where he played football and cultivated his love for the sport. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Joseph University and later an MS in coaching education from Ohio University.
Erkins’ coaching career began at St. Antoninus School [in Green Township], where he spent three years coaching junior high football. He moved to the varsity level, serving as the quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator at Western Hills High School for three years. Following that, he was at Finneytown High School where he became assistant head coach during his last year.
In addition to his extensive coaching background, Erkins has a strong foundation in behavioral health, having worked at Best Point (formerly The Children’s Home of Cincinnati) and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Partial Program in Mason. His experience working with youth in various capacities has shaped his coaching philosophy, emphasizing personal growth, teamwork and resilience.
“I am thrilled to join the Lockland community and lead the Panthers’ football program,” said Erkins. “This is an amazing community with amazing kids full of potential waiting to be tapped. I’m excited to help them grow both on and off the field.”
Lockland Schools Athletic Director/Associate Principal Jon Payne said Lockland Local Schools is confident that Coach Erkins’ experience and dedication will drive the football program to new heights.
“His passion and enthusiasm for developing students and athletes to be their best will serve our school community well. We are very excited to have Coach Erkins leading the football program and look forward to watching him make his mark on the program,” Payne said.
Located just north of Cincinnati, Lockland Local Schools serves about 500 K-12 students from Lockland, Arlington Heights and nearby communities through open enrollment. Established in 1851, it is one of Ohio’s oldest school districts.
With small class sizes and a Comprehensive Student Wellness Department, the district prioritizes personalized instruction and student well-being. A $40+ million campus and stadium renovation project is nearing completion, enhancing the learning environment for modern education.
“Small School, Big Opportunities” defines Lockland Schools’ dedication to providing quality education and support.,” said Payne.
Open enrollment is underway. For more information or to enroll, call (513) 563-5000 or visit LocklandSchools.org.