West Liberty-Salem is celebrating the career of longtime boys’ basketball coach Darrin Leichty, who is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service to the Tigers program. His tenure includes 13 years as head varsity coach, along with three seasons leading the eighth-grade team and nine years at the junior varsity level, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the scoreboard.
As head varsity coach, Leichty compiled an impressive 193–117 record, guiding the Tigers to four league championships and earning District 9 Coach of the Year honors twice. Under his leadership, the program reached a District Runner-Up finish in 2026, marking one of the high points of his career and reinforcing West Liberty-Salem’s place among competitive programs in the region.
While the wins and accolades tell part of the story, school officials and community members emphasize that Leichty’s greatest impact came through his influence on student-athletes. Over more than two decades, he helped shape generations of young men, building a program centered on discipline, accountability, and teamwork.
Reflecting on his career, Leichty credited the support system around him for the program’s success. He highlighted the dedication of his coaching staff, student-athletes, families, and school administration, as well as the personal support of his wife, Sarah, and daughters, Isla and Elin.
“I have been extremely blessed throughout the years by having supportive families, hard-working, motivated athletes who are coachable, and a highly qualified coaching staff. Coaching boys basketball at WL-S has been a dream fulfilled, and the fact that we had some success along the way added to the experience.”
— Darrin Leichty
Athletic Director Morgan Sullivan praised Leichty’s consistency, leadership, and character throughout his long tenure with the program.
“You always hope to have coaches who lead with integrity, pour themselves into kids, and represent your school the right way, and Darrin did exactly that. His success speaks for itself, but even more important is the way he carried himself, the relationships he built, and the positive impact he had on so many young men and families.”
— Athletic Director Morgan Sullivan
Beyond basketball, Leichty will continue serving West Liberty-Salem as a valued member of the elementary teaching staff, extending his commitment to education and the district community.
As he steps away from the sidelines, Coach Leichty leaves behind not only a winning record but also a program strengthened by his leadership and a community grateful for his decades of service.
