When Ross Fleming got the call from former coach Shannon Glenn announcing his upcoming induction into the Ben Lippen Athletic Hall of Fame, he was overcome with gratitude. “I was involved in Ben Lippen Athletics for many years,” Ross shared. “So I’m very grateful to the Lord for this recognition. I feel so honored and humbled.”

A 2011 graduate, Ross was a true four-sport athlete, competing in football, track, basketball, and speed and strength. His hard work and determination earned him a long list of accolades, including All-State honors, MVP titles, and multiple character-based awards. He was named a North/South All-Star in football, a two-time state gold medalist in speed and strength, and received recognition as a region standout in track and field. Basketball brought its own highlight with the Christian Character Award, while his leadership and consistency across all sports earned him the Iron Falcon Award, the In His Image Award, and ultimately the Patterson Award, Ben Lippen’s highest athletic honor for senior males.

But behind the ribbons and trophies was a deeper drive. “One of my biggest motivations was to never be satisfied and to strive for excellence,” Ross explained. “I loved the intentionality of working out, training, and preparing to be the best I could be, whether on the field, court, or track.”

That mindset carried him through both victories and challenges. One of his proudest moments came after a serious injury when he returned to the field stronger than ever, ultimately earning All-State honors his junior year. He also fondly recalls the thrill of starting as a freshman under the Friday night lights, “feeling so nervous but exhilarated.”

While Ross built a reputation as a fierce competitor, his true legacy at Ben Lippen is as much about character as athleticism. “I’m just humbled and thankful to the Lord for His kindness to me,” he reflected. “Being in this position is not a feat I could have achieved without Him.” 

Mentors played an important role in shaping Ross’s journey. He credits Coach Reggie Shaw for walking alongside him through the ups and downs of his football career, offering support as both an athlete and a young man. He also points to teachers Bobby Young and Dale Angstadt as spiritual influences who challenged him to think deeply about Scripture and encouraged him in his faith. “Ben Lippen had an environment that helped cultivate my faith and grow closer to the Lord,” Ross said. “It was very special having teachers and coaches who not only wanted to impact me intellectually and athletically, but most importantly, spiritually.”

After graduation, Ross attended Columbia International University before stepping into a professional music career as a drummer. He toured across the country with several artists and bands, yet remained closely connected to Ben Lippen by coaching middle school football and even coaching his younger brother, Ryan. “It was fulfilling to be around the game I loved and invest in the lives of the kids at the time,” he said.

Today, Ross lives in Columbia with his wife of 10 years, Rebekah, and their five children, Audrey, Rock, Brielle, Ransom, and Reverend. He works in sales for a local homebuilder, continues to play music, and serves actively in his church.

Through it all, the values planted during his years at Ben Lippen remain central to his life. “Values that I gained at Ben Lippen, like never giving up, how to face adversity, being a team player, taking care of the little things, and trusting in the Lord, are just a handful of values that I continue to implement in my life now,” Ross said. “I strive to train my kids in the way they should go, as well as live a life that others may see Jesus in me through these values.”

We are excited to honor Ross's achievement at this year's Hall of Fame reception and during half-time of the varsity football game. Join us to cheer him on, along with our other 2024 and 2025 Hall of Fame inductees.