In Illinois, several high school coaches have been honored as Coaches of the Year by the Illinois High School Association, recognizing their outstanding contributions to shaping young athletes both on and off the field. Congratulations to Woodhull-Alwood Softball Coach Renae Leander as a 2024 Coach of the Year.
Coach Renae Leander told Regional Media News, “I am incredibly honored to represent this great award, but I would not be receiving this without the support of my husband, Eric, who encourages me to continue with my goals, the best coaching staff and one unbelievable large group of talented young women and softball players who believed in me and this program those first few years. This game is incredible and I am blessed simply to be able to have a front row seat to lifelong memories being made. This team will remain a family and forever have marked their names in the history books as the first for our schools and that is quite an accomplishment.”
These coaches, celebrated for their sportsmanship, leadership, and career achievements, now advance to a national evaluation stage. They could become Section or even National winners in their respective sports, competing against coaches from Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
“Congratulations to all of these worthy individuals on being selected as IHSA Coaches of the Year,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “As a former high school coach myself, I understand the time and commitment it takes to help shape young people. Clearly, all of these coaches are making a significant impact on their respective schools and communities. We are proud to have them represent Illinois and the IHSA and wish them luck in this awards process at the national level.”
