Ron Commons

Ron graduated from Lawrence High School in 1967. He played basketball 2 years and football - 2 years at LHS, and was on the Football State Championship team his senior year. Ron has a long history of family who attended Lawrence schools, including siblings, nieces and nephews and his father who graduated from Liberty Memorial High School in 1924.

After graduation he attended Pittsburg State University on a football scholarship playing as a four-year starter. The team was RMAC champions in 1971. Ron still holds the school record for the longest punt return for a touchdown (1969, 86 yards). He received his B.S.Ed. in 1972 and his M.S.Ed. in 1973.

His return to Lawrence High School was in the fall of 1973 and began teaching as a Woodshop Instructor for the next 20 years. From 1993 to 2005 Ron taught Physical Education, which included swimming, lifetime sports and weightlifting.

Coaching duties consisted of Assistant football coach for 20 years, Assistant basketball coach 2 years and Head Golf Coach for 29 years. During his coaching career, LHS won 9 State Football Championships and he coached the golf team to a State Championship in 1983. Ron had the privileged to teach and coach his son Chad in football and golf (LHS class of 1989).

Ron became the Athletic Director in 1994 and remained in that position until his retirement in 2013. As the AD he enjoyed the variety of seeing other sporting events, i.e. Cross Country, Bowling, Volleyball, Girls Gymnastics and Track & Field to name a few. He said it was enjoyable watching all student-athletes from various sports perform and improve over time.

• Outstanding Young Educator Award – Lawrence Jaycees

• Assistant Coach 1 st Annual Metro Classic All-Star Football – 1992

• Board of Directors Lawrence Sports Corporation – 1995 to 2000

• CAA (Certified Athletic Administrator) - 2000

• KIAAA Board of Directors – 1995 to 2013

• KIAAA District 3 Athletic Director of the Year – 2001

• KIAAA District 3 Athletic Director of the Year - 2011

• Board of Directors KSHSAA – 2004 to 2006

• Appreciation for Commitment Sunflower League Athletics – 2013

Since retirement Ron has enjoyed watching his grandchildren Emily, Bryce and Jon grow to become successful young adults. He spends time fishing, hunting, reading, and gardening with his wife Dee Dee. Ron still has time to squeeze in some Lawrence High sporting events.