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Local high school football coaches react to Urban Meyer's retirement

Cleveland high school football coaches talk about Urban Meyer's decision to retire and what he's meant to the state of Ohio.

CLEVELAND -- It's no secret that Urban Meyer was very passionate about football in the state of Ohio. And not just the games played in Ohio Stadium.

Urban Meyer spoke often about the high quality of high school football in Ohio and had close relationships with several area head coaches. His announcement on Tuesday that he was retiring after the Rose Bowl had some of the coaches in Cleveland reflecting about what he's meant to the state.

That includes Glenville's Ted Ginn Sr. Ginn sent many of his Tarblooders to Columbus over the years to play for Ohio State. Including his own son, Troy Smith, and Cardale Jones.

Ginn said Meyer's decision didn't surprise him.

"He's a legend. And I look at him as a soldier. He's one of the soldier that's been in this game. And it's sad to see him walk away because of his health. You want people to walk away because they are finished," said Ginn Sr.

St. Ignatius' Chuck Kyle has a close relationship with the Buckeye coach as well. Kyle first got to know Urban when he was an assistant coach at Notre Dame. When Meyer applied for the head coach job at Bowling Green, Kyle was one of the people he listed as a reference.

Kyle said that Meyer has always had a big impact on high school football in Ohio.

"He's always been a guy that is really eager to help from the college level to the high school level. He'll help guys get started. I love talking technique with him. He took great pride in the state of Ohio," said Kyle.

Meyer's final game will be Jan. 1 when Ohio State takes on Washington in the Rose Bowl.

MORE MEYER COVERAGE:

Urban Meyer believes he won't coach again following Ohio State retirement

Ryan Day on Ohio State expectations: 'No. 1 win the rivalry game. No. 2 win every game after that'

Social media reacts to Urban Meyer's retirement from Ohio State football

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