News Summary

Two remarkable coaches from South Dakota, Rachelle DeBeer and Steph Daly, are nominated for the NHSACA National Coach of the Year Honors. DeBeer leads girls track and field while Daly serves as an assistant coach. Their contributions and dedication, alongside other finalists, highlight the excellence in coaching within the state. A National Awards Banquet will take place on June 25 at Ramkota Hotel in Rapid City, celebrating their accomplishments. Additionally, Cole Reilly from Sioux Falls Washington High School has been recognized as the Gatorade South Dakota Boys Cross Country Player of the Year.

Exciting News from South Dakota: Coaches and Athletes Shine Bright!

Greetings from the beautiful state of South Dakota, where sportsmanship and stellar coaching meet! This year, we are thrilled to announce that two fantastic coaches from our very own schools have been nominated for the prestigious NHSACA National Coach of the Year Honors. Make way for Rachelle DeBeer from Deubrook Area High School and Steph Daly from Aberdeen Central as they lead the way among our state’s brightest educators!

The Nominees

Rachelle DeBeer is soaring high as she is nominated in the category of girls track and field coaching. It’s no surprise that her hard work and dedication have earned her this recognition, as she has proven to be a remarkable leader and mentor to her athletes. On the other hand, Steph Daly is nominated for her outstanding role as an assistant girls coach. Together, these two women exemplify what it means to inspire and empower young athletes.

Both DeBeer and Daly are among a dedicated group of ten coaches from South Dakota who have made it to this elite list. The criteria for this esteemed nomination are stringent, checking for coaching longevity, exceptional win-loss records, championship achievements, awards received, and a genuine commitment to nurturing athletes in our beloved state.

An Awards Banquet to Remember

The recognition for these exemplary coaches will take center stage at the upcoming National Awards Banquet during the 60th annual NHSACA conference. Mark your calendars for June 25th at 5 p.m. CDT, where coaches, athletes, and supporters will gather at the Ramkota Hotel in Rapid City to celebrate hard work and dedication!

Other 2025 South Dakota Finalists

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Our state is bursting with talented coaching professionals who are also vying for the National Coach of the Year honors. Among them are:

  • Jason Wagoner from Sioux Falls Jefferson (boys cross country)
  • Misty Larson of Chester Area/Pierre (boys track and field)
  • Jesse Coy from Rapid City Stevens (girls cross country)
  • Les Coin of Sioux Falls Lincoln (special sports – gymnastics)
  • Pat Moeller from Mitchell (tennis)
  • Linda DeBoer of Miller (volleyball)
  • Lance Pearson from Rapid City Central (wrestling)
  • Craig Nowotny of St. Thomas More (boys assistant)

These coaches have left indelible marks on their teams and communities, and we’re proud to have them representing South Dakota.

A Tribute to Excellence

In a separate honor, former Hamlin coach Arlin Likness is being inducted into the NHSACA National Hall of Fame. Joining him is the esteemed Tom McGough of Miller, highlighting their longstanding contributions to high school athletics. Their legacy showcases the importance of commitment and excellence in coaching.

Shout-Out to Young Athletes

On the horizon of athletic achievements, we celebrate Cole Reilly from Sioux Falls Washington High School. He has been named the 2024-25 Gatorade South Dakota Boys Cross Country Player of the Year after clinching victory in the Class AA boys division with an impressive time of 15:47.13. Not only did he lead his team to a podium finish, but he also made his mark with personal bests along the way.

Cole balance his athletic prowess with community service, volunteering his time coaching youth basketball while boasting a commendable GPA of 3.31. As he gears up for his junior year this fall, it’s clear he embodies the spirit of a true scholar-athlete!

Wrapping It Up

This season is proving to be a golden one for coaches and athletes alike in South Dakota. With exciting events on the calendar and remarkable individuals representing our communities, there is so much to celebrate. Let’s keep our spirits high as we root for our amazing coaches and student-athletes making waves both on and off the field!

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