“Titan Pride” isn’t just a motto here. It is a way of life at Olympus High School. This public high school in Holladay, Utah has a rich history. It has shaped generations of students since its opening in 1953.
Olympus High School started with 1,028 students. The class of 1963 was the largest sophomore class in Utah history with 935 students. The school faced overcrowding until Skyline High opened. A new Olympus High School building opened in April 2013 next to the original. The old building was torn down after 60 years.
Olympus High has been a leading academic school in Utah. Its music program received national recognition. In 1961 the Ford Foundation funded a composer-in-residence. This award was shared with other schools in the Granite School District.
The football rivalry with Skyline High is legendary. “The Rock” is the granite trophy. Local lore says it was taken from Mt. Olympus in 1962. The winning school paints the Rock its colors. As of 2024-25 Olympus leads the series 30-27-1. Olympus football has an all-time record of 349–251–9. Aaron Whitehead is the current head coach. His teams have won five of the last six region championships. Olympus won state championships in 1984 and 1998.
Matt Barnes coached the Olympus High men’s basketball team for over 20 years. His teams won 13 region titles. Barnes has the most coaching wins in school history. His record through 2013-2014 was 300-91. Olympus won its first state basketball championship in 2016 under Barnes. The 2017-2018 team went 27-0. It won another state championship. Olympus basketball is known for its 3-point shooting. They hold state records for 3-point attempts and makes in a single season.
The Olympus High girls’ swimming team won the Region VI Championships in 2010. They were undefeated that season. The girls’ team took second at the 4A State competition in 2010.
Olympus High School has produced many notable alumni. These include photographer David Burnett, NFL player Merrill Douglas. Also included are magician Paul Draper, ambassador Jeffrey Glen Giauque. Document forger Mark Hofmann, soccer player Roberto Linck. Analyst Elizabeth O’Bagy, tech pioneer Mary Jesse, and 49ers player Cameron Latu. Author Virginia Hinckley Pearce, apostle Ronald A. Rasband. Political advisor Karl Rove, journalist Ronald Scott. University president Paul Kay Sybrowsky, computer scientist Jim Waldo. Adobe co-founder John Warnock, cyclist David Zabriskie and singer Logan Nelson.
From academics to athletics Olympus High School has a legacy of excellence. The Titan spirit continues to inspire students. It encourages them to achieve their dreams. As you leave Olympus High remember the words “Titan Pride”. Carry them with you wherever you go.