Robert M. Leonard, affectionately known as Bob, joins his brother Bill tonight as one of the few siblings to gain entrance into the Trumbull County Sports Hall of Fame in the same class.
Born and raised in Niles, he was the tenth child of Joseph and Kathryn Leonard and a 1967 graduate of Niles McKinley High School.
His name became synonymous with sports excellence during a time when high school football was at its peak in the Midwest.
A beloved figure in Ohio football, his celebrated career under center began under the tutelage of head coach Glen Stennett during his sophomore (8-2-0) season, peaking as a junior (6-2-2) and senior under the watchful eye of head coach Bob Shaw.
His star shone brightest, however, as quarterback of the school’s undefeated 1966 team that went 10-0, playing a pivotal role for Shaw as they rolled through the season unscathed.
That season, he led the team while barking signals to their last undefeated campaign – it was their sixth overall – while that squad is still celebrated as one of the greatest in Ohio high school football lore.
They posted victories over Massillon, Canton McKinley and Warren G. Harding, all considered some of the very best in the state and all hailing from the Northeastern Ohio area.
One of the highlights of his career came on October 8, 1966, in dramatic fashion against defending state champion Massillon, a game not even the Red Dragon faithful could have scripted. With Niles down 12-0 in the fourth quarter, Leonard led the team to a remarkable 20-12 comeback victory, scoring three touchdowns in the final minutes to secure an eight-point victory.
The game remains a seminal moment in Niles football history with fans and players still recalling the energy and intensity of that night.
Despite their undefeated record and dominant performances, the team faced controversy when they finished second in the final state poll behind Columbus Watterson. Many Niles players and fans felt they were unfairly denied the state title but the team was eventually recognized as best in Ohio by the National Sports News Service and ended up ranked fifth overall nationally among all high school teams across America.
His leadership as quarterback was central to the team’s success, helping Niles McKinley cement its place as one of the premier high school football programs of that era.
From an early age, he displayed exceptional talent in all sports, particularly football. His leadership on the field and ability to remain calm under pressure helped lead his team to numerous victories en route to second-team all-Ohio laurels.
He was admired not only for his athletic prowess, but also dedication to his teammates, strong work ethic and ability to inspire others. His high school career saw him break records and receive accolades that are still remembered fondly by his alma mater.
After high school, he attended the University of Cincinnati and later served as an assistant coach for the Warren JFK Eagles (1970 to 1972).
In 1978, he opened a glass shop in Niles, where he continues to work today under the leadership of his son, Kyle. His business became a respected local establishment, reflecting the commitment he has to his hometown and the values of hard work and perseverance that he has demonstrated throughout his life.
His legacy extends far beyond his grid career as he is a highly-respected businessperson and well-known figure in the community, admired for his humility, kindness, and unwavering support for those around him. Despite the accolades and recognition that he received during his scholastic career, he has remained down-to-earth and approachable, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement to those in need.
In 1980, he married the former Karen Lesler of Euclid, who was not only the love of his life but also his strongest supporter throughout every chapter of their life together. They built a beautiful family, raising three children—Kara, Kyle, and Kelly.
His love for his children mirrored the passion he had for football and he took immense pride in being a devoted father. He encouraged his children to pursue their dreams, instilling in them the same values of hard work, perseverance and loyalty that had guided him.
Tragically, Karen passed away in 2003 leaving a significant void in Bob’s life. However, he continued to honor her memory by dedicating himself to his family and the community.
His children have grown into successful adults, each building families of their own and today, he is the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren who are the light of his life.
He relishes his role as a grandfather, often sharing stories from his football days and offering life lessons to the younger generation while remaining an active part of the Niles community.
He resides in Niles.
