The Tom Ellis Athletic Memorial Foundation is named after the man who was called “Big Daddy”, “Mr. Bulldog” and “Coach.” Tom Ellis Sr. was one of the last in Kentucky to serve as head coach of football, baseball and basketball and Athletic Director – all at the same time at Holmes High School.
Before coming to Holmes, Coach Ellis taught aeronautics, served as principal, and was football and basketball coach at Bardstown. He produced many outstanding teams. His 1946 football team at Holmes was awarded the mythical state title, and he coached two Holmes basketball teams to the Kentucky Sweet 16. Ellis retired from education in 1973. He was named coach of the year twice and coached in several all-star games.
In addition, he was elected to the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame in 1984, the Kentucky High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1988, and the Greater Cincinnati Sports Hall of Fame in 1999. The Holmes High School football field is named in his memory.
Board of Directors
Gary Huhn - President - Class of 1962
Dan Curtis - Vice-President - Class of 1971
Jay Fossett - Secretary - Class of 1977
Randy Railey - Treasurer - Class of 1965
Davana Gulley - Recording Secretary - Class of 1997
Members
Jim Anstead
Keith Bales - Class of 1978
Ken Ellis
Alvin Garrison
Stephen Gastright - Class of 1993
Allyson Heger - Class of 1989
Jon Hopkins
Greg Hornsby - Class of 1989
John Jennings - Class of 1961
Ken Kippenbrock
Charlie Moore - Class of 1970
Joyce Murphy - Class of 1971
Ray Murphy - Class of 1969
Eric Neff
Ron Washington - Class of 1986
Tom Wherry
Michelle Williams
Doug Bramlage - Emeritus - Class of 1965
Ron Madrick - Emeritus
TEAM Foundation
PO Box 12132
Covington, KY 41011
859.392.1007
The Tom Ellis Athletic Memorial Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) organization, has assisted Covington Independent Public Schools by supporting district athletic activities and providing scholarships, all while promoting excellence in education, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Goals of the TEAM Foundation:
Support the Holmes High School Athletic Department
Provide funds to assist with the maintenance and creation of new athletic facilities
Foster school pride by providing student-athletes with facilities necessary to develop their talents