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Plainfield North High School's head coach for men's and women's cross country, Andrew Derks, has been awarded the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Coach of the Year for the 2023-24 season. Reflecting on this recognition, Derks stated, “It makes me feel proud to be recognized, but I truly see this as an award for our entire coaching staff.”
The school's Athletic Director, Ron Lear, emphasized Derks' dedication and commitment to student athletes: “Coach Derks deserves this honor based on not only the success of the program but also the dedication and commitment he has towards the student athletes.”
The National Federation of High Schools (NFHS), affiliated with IHSA, organizes a coach of the year program annually. Each state selects one coach per sport to be considered for further awards at section and national levels.
IHSA Assistant Executive Director Kraig Garber nominated Derks due to his program’s notable progress over recent years. The team finished 11th at the IHSA State Finals in 2021 and improved to 4th place in 2022. Last year, they were runners-up in the State final. Currently, they are ranked among the top three boys’ teams statewide.
Derks expressed pride in maintaining competitive success while preserving team values: “I am very proud that we've been able to get to a very high level competitively without losing our personality or values as a program.” He added that it is possible “to be a great team with great runners and do it in a way that is positive, fun and inclusive.”
Having joined PNHS in 2011 and becoming head coach ten years ago, Derks cannot envision doing anything else. Garber noted his positive influence: “I feel that his leadership is having a positive impact on the student athletes involved in the PNHS cross country program.” Lear also highlighted Derks as a role model: “He is a role model for our younger coaches on how to do things right.”
Derks praised his athletes for their positivity and hard work. Last year marked a significant change as PNHS combined its men's and women's cross country programs for the first time. Despite initial doubts about this decision, Derks remarked on its benefits: “There were times where we questioned if it was the right decision, but I am so glad we did,” adding that it benefitted both programs.
Lear concluded by expressing pride in Derks' achievement: “This is a well-deserved award, and I am really proud of him and honored to have him as part of our coaching staff.”
