Dennis Rissler helped turn the Liberty-Benton girls’ basketball program into a perennial powerhouse during his 17 seasons as head coach, beginning in 1986-87. After winning for the first time in 52 games and posting four wins overall during his first season, the Eagles never had another losing season during Rissler’s tenure. He posted a record of 300-114, claiming six Blanchard Valley Conference championships, 12 sectional titles and four district crowns.

His 1991-92 team reached the regional finals; its 25-1 record was the best in Liberty-Benton girls’ basketball history until 2010. Rissler was named BVC Coach of the Year six times and Northwest Ohio Coach of the Year twice. He also coached in the Ohio North-South All-Star game. Seven of his Liberty-Benton players scored more than 1,000 points in their careers. Rissler’s overall coaching record was 416-149, which also included a 116-35 mark at Mansfield St. Peter’s. Three of his St. Peter’s teams went to the state tournament, with the 1980 team winning the championship.

A Lexington, Ohio native, Rissler graduated from Ashland University. He and his wife, Gracie, have daughters Sarah and Rachel and son Jamie.