Ron Ellett (1942–2026)

Teacher and Coach, Hampshire High School

Touching the lives of many students during his years at Hampshire High, teacher and coach Mr. Ron Ellett was instrumental in their rite of passage. From business education classes to those first scary moments behind the wheel in driver’s ed, and the hard work and toughness demanded on the playing field, he helped shape generations of Hampshire students.

Coach Ellett’s claim to fame will forever be the impact he had on young athletes when he established and built the school’s football program into a powerhouse. Over 21 seasons he compiled an impressive 124–68 record, highlighted by leading the Whip-Purs “All the Way” to the Class 1A State Football Championships in 1976 and 1979, with a state runner-up finish in 1978. The excitement ignited the entire town! Coach Ellett emphasized hard work, toughness, determination, and “desahr” values that shaped the lives of countless players.  “We’re Number 1!”