Who is Woodridge's Coach of the Year?

A youth sports coach can have a special impact on a child, and the Woodridge Park District wants to recognize the best local coaches.

"Coaching youth sports is more than just teaching the X’s and the O’s," A Park District news release stated. "Good sportsmanship, a positive attitude and self-discipline are expected by parents and nowadays expectations couldn’t be higher."

The Park District wants to recognize the efforts of the volunteer coaches, and nominations are being accepted for any coach who participated during the 2012 calendar year. 

Read about past winners

• 2011: Dusan Strmcnik Selected as Woodridge Park District Coach of the Year
• 2010: Ed Hartig Chosen as Woodridge Park District's 2010 Coach of the Year

This coach should have demonstrated at minimum the following qualities:

Good sportsmanship: Are players encouraged to be respectful of opponents? Does the coach place the well-being of his/her players ahead of winning? Does the coach practice what he/she preaches?

Player Development: Are players motivated to come to practice and learn? Does the coach create an environment that is fun and challenging for all players?

Leadership: Does the coach promote a positive atmosphere among the team, fans and parents? Does the coach create an upbeat image of coaching and the role of the coach?

All nominations must be received by Feb. 15, 2013. The winner will be chosen on March 1, 2013 and all nominees will also be recognized. Nomination forms are available at www.woodridgeparks.org and at the Woodridge Park District Community Center.