Joe Ott is a proud Prep alumni and has been a lifelong Rambler. He attended Cathedral Prep and graduated in 1983. He had no doubt that this was where he would go to high school. When his dad attended Prep, it made the decision much easier for Ott, because for him, attending Prep was about following in his dad’s footsteps.
Ott participated in wrestling and skiing during his time at Prep. Athletics played a major role in his high school experience. Joe enjoyed being part of a powerful athletic program and the pride of wearing the Rambler name. Participating in teams helped create lasting bonds among his teammates and classmates, many of which have continued to be important to him in his adult life.
One of Ott’s most fond memories of Prep were the pep rallies prior to major sporting events. These rallies were an incredible way to bring students together in a manner that he will never forget.
“It brought a high energy, unity, and a slightly chaotic side to Prep,” he said. “Especially when we played against McDowell.”
The noise, the chaos, the pride created a sense of belonging to something greater than a school.
Following his graduation from Prep, Ott started and ran a family-owned business. After 37 years in business, he retired in November of 2022 after selling the company. As a result of owning and running a family business, he learned about responsibility, teamwork and sacrifice. Working with family members can be both fulfilling and challenging, and putting the needs of the business and its employees ahead of his own helped him grow as a person and as a professional.
Ott gives Prep credit for helping prepare him for life after high school. Hebelieves that Prep gave him the foundation to enter into adulthood by teaching him basic training. This training included learning how to work hard, hold himself accountable, manage his time effectively, and develop the ability to bounce back and take charge. He often states that being average was never good enough, and that mentality allowed him to set realistic goals and reach them.
To this day Ott remains very close to his fellow Prep classmates. Although many of his closest friends are still living in Erie and they continue to see each other regularly, others continue to remain in contact via Facebook, yet the connection remains strong. The bonds formed among Prep classmates are truly lifelong.
Now Ott views Prep from a different standpoint; he is now a Prep parent. His son, Joseph Ott, is currently a senior at Prep and is continuing a family tradition that includes his uncle and grandfather.
“I’m proud to be a Prep grad and a parent of a Prep student,” Joe said. “It’s the best place for a young person to be in shaping his or her future.”
For Ott, Cathedral Prep represents opportunity, tradition, and preparation for success. He is thankful for the education, values, and friendships that Prep provided for him. His message is clear: Roll Ramblers.
