University of Findlay

Ray Long, a 1995 graduate, crafted a legacy that remains nearly two decades after playing linebacker at Findlay. He was a member of two NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics). National Championship teams in 1992 and 1995, was named First-Team All-American in 1994 and 1995, and set the UF record for tackles in a season (184) and during a career (432). Only nine Findlay football players have been named All-America twice, including just two linebackers, which indicated how special Ray Long was.

Besides the two national titles, Long’s teams won 36 games during his career at UF. The heart Oilers defense at that time. Long declares that “the true value of sports is that it allows us to build young men and women into leaders who understand the importance of hard work and dedication toward a common goal.” Long played one season in Berlin, Germany where he was named defensive player of the week on three occasions, and participated in the Euro League playoffs. He has been employed for 14 years at H.J. Heinz in Fremont, Ohio, and serves as the defensive coordinator at his alma mater, Clyde High School. Long has coached the Fliers during five state playoff appearances, including three regional finals and one state semifinal. In 2004 he founded and still runs a flag football league for first and second grade children through the Flier Football Foundation. Long lives in Clyde with his wife Jennifer, and children Kade, Conner and Kennedi. Another child, Colby, is decreased.