A standout football player “Bobby Joe” was a three year starter at offensive guard and defensive linebacker for the Tigers and the teams punter in his senior year. He made first team All-City in both his junior & senior years. He was chosen first team All-City on both the offense and defense in his senior year – a rare event. In 1953 Stivers won the City Public League Championship. In baseball he was a 4 year varsity catcher. Bob’s brothers Vernon, Bill and Carl were all good athletes and all played for Stivers. He was recruited by the Hall of Fame Coach, Sid Gilman, of the University of Cincinnati where he played 2 years. A broken ankle and non-school related issues required him to return home where he then finished his education at the University of Dayton. He coached football & wrestling at Stebbins HS for 3 years before going into his school administration career.
