Brock Netter, Editor
Southern Ohio Sports Authority is presented by OhioHealth.
BAINBRIDGE — For nearly two decades, Shayne Combs has proudly served as Paint Valley’s head baseball coach.
But as the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end.
On Tuesday, Combs announced his resignation from the position, ending an incredible 18-year run — 19 with the 2020 COVID season.
“I’ve been coaching baseball for the last 30 years between Unioto and Paint Valley, before taking over the program in 2007,” Combs said. “I love Paint Valley Baseball with all of my heart, and I want it to constantly move in a positive direction. I truly love my players. My faith and my family are really important to me, and as my career continues to grow in administration, and I have side passions such as my work in media, I just feel like the time is right.”
Over his stellar career in Bainbridge, Combs won 234 games — a resume that includes six sectional titles (2008, 2009, 2014, 2015, 2019, 2021) and three district championships in 2014, 2015 and 2021.
He was named the Southeast District Coach of the Year in 2015.
CREDIT: Derrick Webb/SOSA
“It is one of those things that if you start trying to thank people by name, you will miss too many,” Combs said. “But from Don Neff, Tony Taylor, Rod Gregory, and Chris Medved at the start of my career, to every PV assistant and all the coaches in the SVC and throughout the Southeast District, I am very thankful for the relationships that have been possible through baseball.”
Combs will remain at Paint Valley as the district’s middle school principal. And, he hasn’t ruled out the notion of coaching again at some point.
But that decision will have to be made later in life, should the opportunity present itself.
“At only 48, I don’t know if I am ready to call it retirement,” Combs said. “I want to see the program continue to grow, but it’s time for a break and I am ready for one.”
SPONSORED BY PICKAWAY-ROSS CTC
