The National Federation of State High School Association’s award for The National High School Girls Tennis Coach of the Year for 2016 was awarded to Peggy Holecek, girls tennis head coach. Holecek is one of two coaches in district history to receive this award.

After winning the IHSA Coach of the Year for girls, Holecek’s name was submitted to the NFHS where she won Central Sectional Coach of the Year. She then went on to become the national recipient.

  Holecek said she remembers going to her mailbox and seeing the award waiting for her.

“I almost fell over,” said Holecek. “It was such an honor.”

During her time working as a girl’s tennis coach, Holecek has brought GBN eight conference titles, six sectional titles and multiple state placers.

Senior Colette O’Regan said Holecek creates an exciting environment while helping the players improve their tennis skills, making her worthy of the award.

Holecek said she finds fulfilment in seeing her players grow.

“I’ve loved coaching,” said Holecek. “I love the fact that girls see improvement … they develop an awareness [of] something bigger around them, and they buy into a team, and get stronger as a team. I love that.”