Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School

Tim played linebacker and fullback for the Lions. He won numerous awards his senior season, including the Universe Bulletin's MVP and the Cleveland Touchdown Club's East Senate MVP. Coach Sam Ruvolo called Tim "the [team's] spirit and Mr. Latin".

Tim earned a scholarship to Waynesburg University in Pennsylvania. There he led the team in 1966 MAIA National Championship. As a senior, Tim won MVP and was named a Small College All-American.