Awards
- Z.G. Clevenger Award - 2002
Ernest S. Kovatch graduated from Riley High School in 1945, where he played football and basketball. He was chosen for the Indiana Basketball All-Star team in 1945. He was also a member of the first inductee class for the Riley High School Hall of Fame.
He graduated from Indiana University in 1951 where he also played football and basketball. He received the Clevenger Award and the Balfor Award from Indiana University. He captained the last IU football team to defeat Notre Dame back in 1950.
Ernie was a teacher and guidance counselor for the South Bend School Corporation for 37 years. He also served in the United States Army and was a prisoner of war in North Korea.