Don Scholla’s presence was defined by his relentless commitment to others.
For decades, Scholla was not just a coach or athletic director; he was a mentor, a friend and a genuine role-model for generations of students. His presence on the sidelines and in the community left an undeniable imprint – one that will now live on through the Don Scholla Memorial Scholarship at the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation.
For those who knew him, Scholla’s passion for athletics was unmatched. From his early days as a student-athlete at Angelica Central, to his first PE teaching job at Rushford Central School, where he coached boys’ varsity soccer, basketball and baseball, and on to his long tenure at Olean High School leading both the boys’ and girls’ varsity soccer teams and the girls’ varsity basketball team, Scholla was dedication personified.
He also helped encourage Olean student-athlete excellence through his use of many motivational quotes, such as: “Playing at Olean is an honor, winning at Olean is a Tradition”...”It Takes all the Huskies to Pull the Sled.”...”Winning is for a day, sportsmanship and ethics are for a lifetime.”... “Know what ‘s right, do what’s right.”
He believed in the transformative power of mentorship. His players remember his encouraging words in the huddle; the stout belief he had in their abilities and the life lessons he instilled in them. To Scholla, every student mattered, whether they were a star athlete, team manager or an aspiring coach.
Throughout his career, Scholla understood the challenges that young people face, both on and off the court. His coaching style was rooted in care, ensuring that every athlete felt supported and valued. Many former players described him as a second father, offering advice and, sometimes, a tough but necessary lesson.
It wasn’t only students who benefited from his guidance. Fellow coaches and Section VI colleagues often sought Don’s counsel, valuing his experience and perspective. His wisdom and kindness became the foundation of many successful coaching careers in the region.
The ripple effect of Don’s kindness can still be felt in Olean and beyond. At St. Bonaventure University, where he was a devoted Bonnies basketball fan and SBU color commentator for 13 years, his spirit lives on in the community he cheered for so passionately.
Scholla’s most cherished role, however, was that of a family man.
A devoted husband, father and “Poppy,” he championed each of their accomplishments. He took immense pride in watching them grow, and the lessons he passed down to his children and grandchildren remain integral to his legacy.
When the Scholla family reflected on how to honor Don’s memory, the answer was clear. Establishing a scholarship in his name was a way to continue his life’s work – empowering young people to chase their dreams.
“We have been overwhelmed by the goodness of the Olean community and their kind words. Over and over again, former athletes, coaches, colleagues, friends, and family members have spoken or written of Don’s gifts to them,” said Janine Scholla, Don’s wife. “By establishing this scholarship, our family hopes to continue those gifts to future Olean High School students. A family of many educators, Don often said that ‘education’ seemed to be our ‘family business.’ We hope this scholarship will in some small way help encourage the same commitment to excellence in education that Don’s life represents.”
The Don Scholla Memorial Scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior of Olean High School. First preference will be given to students pursuing a degree or career in physical education and/or coaching, reflecting Scholla’s lifelong dedication to mentoring others through sports. Second preference will be given to Olean seniors who have participated in at least two varsity sports at OHS.
On July 28, 2025, a golf tournament will be held in Scholla’s name at Bartlett Country Club to aid in fundraising for the scholarship. The cost is $150 per golfer, which includes a round of golf, lunch, dinner and awards. You can register for the tournament at this web address: https://bit.ly/3GlsKB5
“Don Scholla had a gift for making people feel seen, valued and capable of more than they imagined,” said CRCF Executive Director Kirk Windus. "Through this scholarship, we hope to continue his work by supporting students who share his passion for athletics, leadership and making a positive impact. It is a privilege to help carry his spirit forward in the community he loved so dearly."
While Scholla may no longer stand on the sidelines, his spirit will always cheer from the heart of Olean – a legacy of kindness and encouragement that will never be replaced. Through this scholarship, his impact will remain a steadfast presence in the community he loved.
Contributions can be made to the Don Scholla Memorial Scholarship Fund at CRCF, 301 North Union St., or online at cattfoundation.org.
The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is the area’s supportive, responsive and trusted community foundation. Established in 1994, CRCF is growing good by connecting donors to the causes they care about most in the region. Grants from the foundation support many areas, including education, scholarships, health care, the arts, community development, human service, and youth development. To learn more, call (716) 301-CRCF (2723), email [email protected], or visit online at www.cattfoundation.org. CRCF is also on Facebook (facebook.com/cattfoundation) and Twitter (@CattFoundation).
