Illinois High School Glory Days

Aledo High School “Green Dragons”

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Constructed in the 1950s

The History of Aledo High School

Aledo (population 3,613) is located in upper-western Illinois in the center of Mercer County and has served as the county seat since 1857. Aledo is situated at the intersection of Illinois Route 17 and Illinois Route 94. The Mississippi River flows about 12 miles west of Aledo. Country singing superstar Suzy Bogguss calls Aledo her hometown.

We know that Aledo was chartered as an official Illinois town in 1855. It served as the home of Aledo Academy, Roosevelt Military Academy (1924-73), and William and Vashti College (1908-1917). The history of the town and its educatonal system is in need of research. The town’s official website can be viewed at http://www.aledo-il.org/index.php .

Early Aledo HS – Later Southside Elementary School

A building with a flag on top

Description automatically generated with medium confidence

Submitted by Linda Lasik

We are certain that Aledo residents began offering educational opportunities to their children in the mid 1800s. Aledo High School was established during the later years of the Aledo Acaedmy, and in turn contributed to the latter school’s demise. In Eric Long’s research of the Academy, “… the Aledo Academy did its duty as a fine school until the Aledo High School became an academically stronger institution.” This took placed during the late 1880s to early 1890s. Aledo High School served the community through 2009. It was in 2008 and 2009 that Aledo residents and residents whose children attended nearby Joy Westmer High School began researching a possibility of consolidating their efforts. This decision was agreed upon by both sides and finalized in 2008.

The 2008-09 school year would be the final one for the school known as the Aledo High School “Green Dragons”. Beginning with the 2009-10 school year, Aledo High School became known as the Mercer County High School “Golden Eagles”. Mercer County High School will hold classes in Aledo at the former Aledo High School building.

Aledo High School Quick Facts

Year opened: Late 1880s-Early 1890s

Year consolidated: 2009

Consolidated with: Westmer High School

Consolidated to: Mercer County High School

Aledo HS nickname: the “Green Dragons”

Uniform colors: Hunter Green, Black, & White

School Fight Song: “GO YOU ALEDO“

Northwestern University Fight Song Tune

Lyrics and information provided by MICHAEL REICK

Go you Aledo,

Fight right through that line!

With your colors flying,

We will cheer you all the time!

Rah Rah Rah!!

Go you Aledo,

Fight for victory!

Spread out the fame,

Of our fair name,

And go you Aledo

Win that game!!

Hit ’em high!

Hit ’em low!

GO YOU ALEDO GO!!

ATHLETICS

The Aledo High School athletic program enjoyed many successful seasons. State championships were enjoyed in the sports of football and boys golf. Many student athletes of Aledo High would enjoy success on team and personal levels while participating in the sports program at Aledo High School. Highlights of this program include the following:

4 – IHSA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS!!

4 – IHSA STATE SECOND PLACE FINISHES!!

4 – “Other” IHSA Sweet 16 Appearances

8 – “Other” IHSA STATE Top Ten Finishes!

8 – INDIVIDUAL EVENT STATE CHAMPIONS!!

9 – Sectional Championships!

28 – Regional/District Championships!

64 – Medals Won in State Meet Competition!

Congratulations to this incredible program. The records, scores, and information listed below were all located on the IHSA website. (www.ihsa.org)

FOOTBALL

The beginning of the Aledo football program didn’t have the best results in it’s first season (1915-16). However, through the years the Green Dragon football program has been all about success. In 2007, Aledo entered a cooperative agreement with Westmer High. Four times the Green Dragons had undefeated years, with three of them occuring before the “playoff era.” And how about after the advent of the playoffs? How about THREE State Championships and THREE runner-ups, all occuring between 1988 and 2006! We’ll let the results speak for itself …

1915-16    0 – 4                                                       Coach Oliver Hostetler
1921-22    1 – 4                                                            Coach Alvin Almer
1922-23    3 – 1                                                            Coach Alvin Almer
1923-24    4 – 3 – 1                                               Coach Kenny Constant
1924-25    4 – 4 Coach Kenny Constant
1925-26    5 – 2 – 2                                              Coach Kenny Constant
1926-27    8 – 2                                                  Coach Alphonse Barrett
1927-28    5 – 2 – 2                                            Coach Henry Canine
1928-29    7 – 2                                                  Coach Henry Canine
1929-30    6 – 2 – 1                                            Coach Henry Canine
1930-31    4 – 4                                                  Coach Henry Canine
1931-32    5 – 2 – 1                                             Coach Henry Canine
1932-33    3 – 3 – 2                                           Coach Henry Canine
1933-34    7 – 3                                                 Coach Henry Canine
1934-35    5 – 3                                                 Coach Henry Canine
1935-36    3 – 4 – 2                                           Coach Henry Canine
1936-37    4 – 3 – 1 Coach Henry Canine

1938-39 8 – 0 Undefeated Season! Coach George Pratt

1939-40 5 – 1 – 1 Coach Rex Millikin

1940-41 7 – 0 Undefeated Season! Coach Rex Millikin

1941-42    1 – 4 – 1                                                       Coach George Pratt
1942-43    7 – 1 Coach Stuart Vandorn
1943-44    5 – 3 Coach Stuart Vandorn
1944-45    3 – 8 Coach Percy Yard
1945-46    6 – 2 – 1                                                       Coach Percy Yard
1946-47    6 – 3 Coach George Pratt
1947-48    8 – 1 Coach George Pratt
1948-49    4 – 2 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1950-51    7 – 1                                                            Coach George Pratt
1951-52    3 – 5 Coach George Pratt

1952-53 7 – 0 – 1 Undefeated Season! Coach George Pratt

1953-54    6 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1954-55    7 – 1 Coach George Pratt
1956-57 7 – 1                                                            Coach George Pratt
1957-58    5 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1958-59    5 – 2 – 1 Coach George Pratt
1959-60    6 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1960-61    6 – 1 – 1                                                       Coach George Pratt
1961-62    6 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1962-63    6 – 2 Coach George Pratt
1963-64    5 – 2 – 1 Coach John Thomas
1964-65    3 – 5 Coach John Thomas
1965-66    5 – 3 Coach John Thomas
1966-67    6 – 2 Coach John Thomas
1967-68    3 – 4 – 1 Coach Larry Reinhold
1968-69    2 – 6 Coach Larry Reinhold
1969-70    4 – 4 Coach Larry Reinhold
1970-71    4 – 4 Coach Len Morehead
1971-72    3 – 4 – 1 Coach Len Morehead
1972-73    1 – 8 Coach Len Morehead
1973-74    0 – 8 Coach Mike Wood
1974-75    4 – 5                                                            Coach Mike Wood

1975-76 6 – 4 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Ray Harris
Lost to Eureka 28 – 14

1976-77    7 – 2                                                            Coach Ray Harris
1977-78    4 – 5                                                            Coach Bob Kniss
1978-79    4 – 5                                                            Coach Ray Harris
1979-80    2 – 7                                                            Coach Ray Harris
1980-81    5 – 4                                                            Coach Ray Harris
1981-82    6 – 3                                                            Coach Rich Hulkow
1982-83    6 – 3 Coach Rich Hulkow
1983-84    6 – 3 Coach Rich Hulkow
1984-85    1 – 8                                                            Coach Don McKillip
1985-86    4 – 5 Coach Don McKillip
1986-87    4 – 5 Coach Don McKillip
1987-88    5 – 4 Coach Brian Applegate

1988-89 13 – 1 IHSA Class 2A SECOND PLACE! Coach Brian Applegate
Undefeated Regular Season!

                            Beat Bushnell-Prairie City 13 – 10
Beat Prophetstown 18 – 13
Beat Morrison  33 – 0
Beat Genoa-Kingston 13 – 10
                            Lost to Carlyle 21 – 13

1989-90    0 – 9 Coach Mike Shepard
1990-91    3 – 6                                                            Coach Bill McCarty
1991-92    6 – 3                                                            Coach Bill McCarty

1992-93 10 – 3 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Bill McCarty

Final Four Finalist!

                            Beat Toulon Stark County 28 – 0
Beat Tremont 28 – 12
Beat LeRoy  21 – 14
                            Lost to Richmond-Burton 16 – 6

Richmond-Burton Won State Championship

1993-94 12 – 1 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Bill McCarty

Undefeated Regular Season!

Final Four Finalist!

Beat Morrison 14 – 0
Beat Byron 27 – 24
Beat Stillman Valley 42 – 20
Lost to Coal City 20 – 19

Coal City Won State Championship

1994-95 6 – 3 Coach Bill McCarty
1995-96 4 – 5 Coach Bill McCarty

1996-97 10 – 3 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Bill McCarty

Final Four Finalist!

Beat Winnebago 18 – 12

Beat Sterling Newman 20 – 7
Beat Byron 27 – 14
Lost to Moweaqua Central A & M 37 – 14

Moweaqua Placed 2ND

1997-98 11 – 1 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Bill McCarty

Undefeated Regular Season!

Elite 8 Finalist!

Beat Fulton 33 – 0
Beat Chicago Christian 30 – 8
Lost to Stillman Valley 20 – 14(OT)

1998-99 12 – 2 IHSA CLASS 2A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Cullen Welter

Beat Beardstown 35 – 25
Beat Tolono (Unity) 22 – 20
Beat Illiopolis 39 – 20
Beat Casey-Westfield 49 – 7
Beat Rockridge 25 – 17

1999-00 10 – 2 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Elite 8 Finalist!

Beat Peru St. Bede 41 – 8
Beat Morrison 27 – 12
Lost to Stillman Valley 13 – 12

Stillman Valley Won State Championship

2000-01 6 – 4 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Lost to Fulton 15 – 12

2001-02 13 – 1 IHSA CLASS 2A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Cullen Welter

Beat Carthage 48 – 36
Beat Westville 44 – 19
Beat Sidell (Jamaica) 40 – 0
Beat Forreston 35 – 26
Beat Moweaqua Central A&M 27 – 24

2002-03 14 – 0 IHSA CLASS 2A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Cullen Welter

Undefeated Season!

Beat Forreston 34 – 8
Beat Amboy 40 – 0
Beat Poplar Grove North Boone 32 – 6
Beat Argenta-Oreana 28 – 7
Beat Carthage 41 – 40 (OT)

2003-04 8 – 2 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Lost to Lewistown 43 – 32

2004-05 6 – 4 IHSA Class 2A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Lost to Knoxville 32 – 14

2005-06 12 – 2 IHSA Class 2A SECOND PLACE! Coach Cullen Welter

Beat El Paso-Gridley 38 – 7
Beat Knoxville 40 – 6
Beat Carthage 31 – 6
Beat Westville 50 – 14
Lost to Dakota 20 – 15

2006-07 13 – 1 IHSA Class 1A SECOND PLACE! Coach Cullen Welter

Beat Alexis United 55 – 14
Beat Dakota 24 – 0
Beat Alden-Hebron 46 – 15
Beat Lexington 46 – 24
Lost to Tuscola 35 – 20

As the Aledo-Westmer Coop Football Team:

2007-08 9 – 2 IHSA Class 3A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Beat Monmouth-Roseville 44 – 16
Lost to Plano 41 – 20
Plano Won State Championship

2008-09 10 – 2 IHSA Class 3A Qualifier! Coach Cullen Welter

Elite 8 Finalist!

Beat Lisle Sr. 28 – 21
Beat Stillman Valley 30 – 22
Lost to Carthage Illini West 22 – 6

Carthage Won State Championship

Aledo High School has many records in the IHSA Football record books. Check out the IHSA web address of http://www.ihsa.org/activity/fb/records/index.htm to view these records, many of which will stand for decades to come!

BOYS GOLF

The Green Dragon Boys Golf program was very successful during the 1980s: Five Top 8 finishes, a STATE CHAMPIONSHIP in 1984 and a SECOND in 1985! Aledo not only had the team championship in 1984, but golfer Matt Ewing won the overall state championship that year! Here’s a look at their efforts:

1982 IHSA Class ‘A’ 7TH Place!! Coach Bob Hoffman

Final Team Standings

1) Pittsfield                                667
2) place forfeited
3) Bloomington Central Catholic 695
4) Streator Woodland                 698
5) Mahomet-Seymour                699
6) Fulton H.S.                          703
7) Aledo                                  708

1983 IHSA Class ‘A’ 8TH Place!! Coach Bob Hoffman

Individual Medalist:

Matt Ewing 10th Place!

Final Team Standings

1) Dunlap                                   644
2) Elgin (St. Edward)                   649
3) Bloomington Central Catholic   676
4) Quincy Notre Dame                677
5) Peoria Bergan                        679
6) Pinckneyville                          689
7) Rushville                                701
8) Aledo                                   709

1984 IHSA CLASS ‘A’ STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Bob Hoffman

Individual Medalist:

Matt Ewing – STATE CHAMPION!

Final Team Standings

1) Aledo                            660      Coach Bob Hoffman
2) Monmouth H.S.              673
2) Petersburg PORTA         673
4) Princeton                       682
5) Normal University H.S.    683

1985 IHSA Class ‘A’ 2ND Place!! Coach Bob Hoffman

Individual Medalists:

Brian Hall 2ND Place!
Eric Ricketts 7TH Place!

Final Team Standings

1) Monmouth H.S.                 638
2) Aledo                               655
3) Dunlap                              667
4) Princeton                          668
5) Aurora Central Catholic      671

1986 IHSA Class ‘A’ 6TH Place!! Coach Bob Hoffman

Final Team Standings

1) Monmouth H.S.           633
2) Dunlap                        649
2) Normal University         649
4) Quincy Notre Dame     658
5) Litchfield                     662
6) Aledo                         683

GIRLS GOLF

The Green Dragon Girls Golf program won three Regional championships during the late 2000s. One golfer, Taylor Lane, had a Top 10 finish at the State Meet in 2007!

2006-07 Regional Champions Coach Aaron Heartt

2007-08 Regional Champions Coach Aaron Heartt

Individual Medalist:

Taylor Lane – 10TH Place!

2008-09 Regional Champions Coach Aaron Heartt

BOYS BASKETBALL

The Green Dragon Boys Basketball program had their fair share of athletic fame at the school. They won SEVEN Regionals in 12 years from 1940-1952! They won eight more Regionals, and made it to the Sweet Sixteen in 1963 prior the the split into playoff classes, and once more in 1977.

1939-40                       Regional Champions
1940-41                       Regional Champions
1942-43                       Regional Champions
1945-46                       Regional Champions
1947-48                       Regional Champions
1949-50                       Regional Champions
1951-52                       Regional Champions
1960-61                       Regional Champions

1962-63 21 – 7 IHSA Sweet 16 Finalists!! Coach Don Naffziger

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Lost to Rockford Auburn 62 – 51

Auburn was later forced to

forfeit this game.

1964-65 Regional Champions

1965-66                       Regional Champions
1970-71   11 – 13 Coach Darrel Jackson
1971-72   10 – 13 Coach Darrel Jackson
1972-73    4 – 19 Coach Craig Kelley
1973-74   12 – 10                                                            Coach Craig Kelley
1975-76                       Regional Champions

1976-77 25 – 5 IHSA Sweet 16 Finalists!! Coach Craig Kelley

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Lost to Morrison 54 – 53

1992-93 22 – 8 Regional Champions Coach Lynn Cross
1993-94 22 – 8 Regional Champions Coach Lynn Cross

1994-95 11 – 15 Coach Lynn Cross

1995-96 13 – 12 Coach Lynn Cross

1996-97 9 – 16 Coach Lynn Cross

1997-98 Coach Tim Butcher

1998-99 Coach Carl Carlson

2004-05   10 – 18                                                           Coach C.J. Tracy
2005-06   13 – 16                                                           Coach C.J. Tracy
2006-07   24 – 5                                                             Coach C.J. Tracy
2007-08   15 – 13                                                           Coach C.J. Tracy

2008-09 no record available Coach Brad Jackson

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Green Dragon Girls Basketball program won one Regional championship, in 1981. We are looking for any records after the 1987-87 season.

1977-78 8 – 9 Coach Darrel Jackson
1978-79 15 – 6 Coach Darrel Jackson
1979-80 15 – 7 Coach Darrel Jackson

1980-81 18 – 6 Regional Champions Coach Darrel Jackson

1981-82 16 – 4                                                        Coach Darrel Jackson
1985-86 11 – 13                                                      Coach Darrel Jackson
1986-87 11 – 13                                                      Coach Darrel Jackson
1987-88 16 – 9 Coach Darrel Jackson

BOYS BASEBALL

The Green Dragon Baseball program won one Regional championship, in 2002. We are looking for any records after the 2001 season.

2000-01 6 – 17 Coach Scott Anderson

2001-02 11 – 12 Regional Champions Coach Scott Anderson

2002-03    9 – 15 Coach Scott Anderson
2003-04   11 – 17 – 1 Coach Scott Anderson
2005-06   15 – 9                                                           Coach Chad Scott
2006-07     9 – 13                                                         Coach Chad Scott
2007-08     9 – 15                                                         Coach Chad Scott

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Twenty-six State Meet medalists! The Green Dragon Boys Track program has had great athletes all throughout the school’s history: going back to R. Sheese’s 1925 State Championship effort in the 1 Mile Run, and going all the way to the 4×100 Relay teams 2009 State Championship and Kyle Tompkins’ efforts in the 110 High Hurdles as well. The efforts came just months after the community learned of the consolidation of Aledo and Westmer.

1925B Individual Medalist:

R. Sheese 1 Mile Run State Champion!!

1946 Individual Medalists:

Ernest Rush Pole Vault 3RD Place!!
John Hofer 120 Yd. Hurd. 5TH Place!!

1982 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x800M Relay 2ND Place!!
Dave Engwall High Jump 3RD Place!!

1983 Sectional Champions

Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x800m Relay 5TH Place!!

Andy Boyce High Jump 7TH Place!!

1987 Individual Medalist:

Nate Baker 110M Hurdles 7TH Place!!

1988 Sectional Champions

Individual Medalists:

                          Scott Earl                100M Dash        4TH Place!!
Scott Earl                200M Dash        5TH Place!!
Nate Baker             110M Hurdles    8TH Place!!

1991                   IHSA Class ‘A’ 9TH Place!!

Individual Medalists:

                          Aaron Baker            110M Hurdles   State Champion!!
Aaron Baker            300M Hurdles   2ND Place!!
Relay Team             4x100M Relay  7TH Place!!

Final Team Standings

1) Chicago Luther South        53
2) Cairo                                46
3) Harrisburg                         31
4) Chicago University HS       29
5) Princeton                          22
5) West Frankfort Frankfort   22
7) Mahomet-Seymour            21
7) Shelbyville                        21
9) Aledo                              20
9) Clinton                             20

1996 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x100M Relay 4TH Place!!
Blake McCreight 400M Dash 7TH Place!!

1999 Individual Medalist:

Cory Shook 3200M Run 5TH Place!!

2000 Individual Medalist:

Michael O’Brien Discus 4TH Place!!

2001 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x400M Relay 6TH Place!!

2002 Individual Medalist:

Jeromy Swanson 300M Hurdles 2ND Place!!

2003 Individual Medalists:

Sam Salmon High Jump 6TH Place!!

2005 Individual Medalist:

Jon Swanson 110M Hurdles 4TH Place!!

2006 Individual Medalist:

Darin Blaser Long Jump 6TH Place!!

2007 Sectional Champions Coach Cullen Welter

Individual Medalists:

Darin Blaser 200M Dash 4TH Place!!
Darin Blaser Long Jump 6TH Place!!

Relay Team 4x100M Relay 6TH Place!!

2008 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x100M Relay 4TH Place!!

2009 IHSA Class ‘A’ 6TH Place!!

Individual Medalists:

Kyle Tompkins 110M Hurdles State Champion!!

Relay Team 4x100M Relay State Champion!!
Relay Team 4x200M Relay 4TH Place!!

Final Team Standings

1) Oregon                   55
2) Winnebago             37
3) Stanford Olympia    33½
4) Heyworth               32
5) Herrin H.S.             29
6) Aledo                    26

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Eleven times did Aledo girls win State Meet medals in Track and Field.

1980 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 800M medley 5TH Place!!

1981 Individual Medalist:

Teresa Paul 3200M Run 5TH Place!!

1982 Individual Medalist:

Chris Ferguson 400M Dash 5TH Place!!
Teresa Paul 3200M Run 6TH Place!!

1983 Individual Medalist:

Teresa Paul 3200M Run 6TH Place!!

1987 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x200M 7TH Place!!

1988 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x200M 4TH Place!!

1989 Individual Medalists:

Relay Team 4x200M 5TH Place!!

1990 Sectional Champions

Relay Team 4x100M 5TH Place!!

1996 Individual Medalist:

Amy Hofmann 300M Hurd. 7TH Place!!

2005 Individual Medalist:

Markie Bacon 100M Hurd. 4TH Place!!

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

We are looking for more information on the Volleyball successes of the Green Dragon program. They won a District Championship and a Regional Championship during it’s history.

1980-81 District Champions
1988-89 Regional Champions

BOYS WRESTLING

There were 11 athletes in the Green Dragon Wrestling program that won medals at the IHSA State Meet. Two wrestlers, Kevin Clawson and Clayton Rush, won Class A State championships!

1979-80 Individual Medalist:

Doug Mitchell 1980A 155 3

1981-82 District Champions

Individual Medalist:

Lane Paulsen 155 Lb. Class 2ND Place!!

1982-83 Regional Champions

1983-84 Regional Champions

Individual Medalist:

John Burns 132 Lb. Class 3RD Place!!

1986-87 Individual Medalist:

Sean Paulsen 167 Lb. Class 2ND Place!!

1987-88 Individual Medalists:

Sean Paulsen 167 Lb. Class 3RD Place!!
Evan Anderson 155 Lb. Class 3RD Place!!

1993-94 23 – 1 Team Qualified for IHSA Finals! Coach Bill Breeden
Regional Champions

Individual Medalists:

Kevin Clawson 103 Lb. Class 3RD Place!!
Jason Clawson 119 Lb. Class 4TH Place!!

1994-94 Individual Medalist:

Kevin Clawson 103 Lb. Class State Champion!!

1996-97 Individual Medalist:

Steve Speaker 152 Lb. Class 4TH Place!!

2004-05 Regional Champions

Individual Medalist:

Clayton Rush 103 Lb. Class 2ND Place!!

2005-06 Individual Medalist:

Clayton Rush 112 Lb. Class State Champion!!

2006-07 Regional Champions

Individual Medalist:

Clayton Rush 119 Lb. Class State Champion!!

2007-08 Individual Medalist:

Ethan Ball 145 Lb. Class 4TH Place!!

2008-09 Individual Medalist:

Austin Skiles 112 Lb. Class 2ND Place!!

Ethan Ball 152 Lb. Class 3RD Place!!

BOYS TENNIS

Two Green Dragon tennis athletes took Top Ten honors at the State Meet:

1986 Individual Medalist:

Mickey Maule Singles 7TH Place!!

1994 Individual Medalist:

Ryan Rader Singles 7TH Place!!

DRAMA

Aledo High School could also hold its own in the activity scene as well. The 1943-44 Drama club had a Top Five finish at the State Meet, as well as winning the Sectional championship!

1943-44 IHSA State Finalist – 5TH Place!!

Sectional Champions

Final Team Standings

1) Champaign (H.S.)   A
2) Granite City            A
3) Freeport (H.S.)       A
4) DuQuoin (H.S.)       B
5) Aledo                    B

SCHOLASTIC BOWL

Aledo High had a successful “Schol Bowl” program under the tutelage of Paul Thielmann. They won two Sectional championships to advance to the IHSA finals.

1987-88 22 – 20 Team Qualified for IHSA Finals!! Coach Paul Thielmann

Sectional Champions

1994-95 21 – 7 Team Qualified for IHSA Finals!! Coach Paul Thielmann

Sectional Champions

IF YOU HAVE ANY MORE INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE …

There’s a lot more to Aledo High School than athletics, and the athletic records. We’d like to make this page even bigger with personal memories you may have about the school (and we know there are plenty of them).

If you have any further information you would like to share regarding Aledo High School, please e-mail us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also write to us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il. 60631

Alden High School “Rascals”

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Alden High School Building 2011

Now a Private Residence

Alden High School Building

A picture containing text, outdoor, house, old

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Courtesy of Bruce Van Hoozen

The History of Alden High School, District 92

Alden, Illinois (population 1,534) is located along Ill. Rt. 173 five miles west of Hebron and six miles east of Harvard in McHenry County in Northeast Illinois. Alden Road runs through the town going north-south.

The town of Alden started a high school district in 1921 after consolidating the country schools in the vicinity. This district was #92. The first graduating class of 1922 consisted of four students: Bessie Carbrey, Margret Disbrow, Forence Seefeldt and Darlene Erle. High school was offered in Alden until the late 1940s when consolidation talks began with Hebron. This effort was final in 1948. The last graduating class of 1949 from AHS included Ethel Burow, Elaine Cates, John Faber, Edward Huffer, Irene Schuld, Joan Staab, Myrtle Uhlig, Edward Van Hoozen, and Martha and Wilbur Wirsema. Twenty-six other students were sent to Alden-Hebron High School.

Further history of the Alden School District was provided from a book titled “McHenry County, Illinois—1832 – 1968”. This article, submitted by Bruce Van Hoozen, states the following regarding Alden High School:

“For 27 years, from 1921 to 1948, Alden Township had its own high school in Alden village. The high school was located on the top floor of Alden School, on Route 173. Since consolidation with Hebron, students have been transported there for high school.

Alden High School Side View 2011

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District 92 in Alden began operating on June 5, 1913. An addition to the original Alden School was made in 1917. High School courses began in 1921. The first graduating class earned their diplomas in the spring of 1922.

Beginning in 1896 when it was constructed, the Alden School building served the town and surrounding farm kids of Alden. In 1967 this historic school was closed for the use of educational purposes. All school-aged kids of Alden now attend one central school located in Hebron.”

The fate of the 1896 Alden School building is a good one. Margo Van Dan tells us that the building today is used as an apartment building after previously being utilized as a factory.

Alden High School “Quick Facts”:

Year opened: 1921

Number of students in first graduating class: four

Year closed: 1948

Number of students in last graduating class: ten

Building status: Still standing

School Colors: Dark Blue & Gold

School Mascot: the “Rascals”

Submitted by M. Van Dan

Evan Bottlemy With His Father Roger’s Letterman’s Jacket

ATHLETICS

Alden High School offered Basketball as a sport. The new consolidated school of Alden-Hebron won the state championship in one of the most wonderful stories in all of high school basketball just four years after the consolidation. Did they offer other sports? They might have not won any IHSA hardware, but we are sure there were many successful seasons over the years.

BASKETBALL

A copy of the basketball summary of the Alden HS basketball team of 1948 revealed that at that time Alden High School’s basketball program did not include many games. The school did not have a gymnasium, often practicing at Hebron High School. AHS dropped the first game of the District Tourney that year to Woodstock St. Mary’s..

The later years of Alden High School boys basketball did not end so well. The boys lost District Tournament games Elgin St. Edward in 1946 (79-17), Capron in 1947 (73-21), and Woodstock St. Mary’s in 1948 (47 – 15). Thank you to Dean Bently for providing this information. Here are some scores located by Dean from a 1947 Alden High School yearbook:

@ Caledonia – 74……..Alden – 28

@ Caledonia – 50……..Alden – 37

@ Capron – 50……..….Alden – 21

The following basketball scores were located on a website titled “Illinois Postseason Basketball Scores“.

1922 Elgin District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

West Chicago 51, Alden 11

Elgin Beat West Chicago in title game

1946 Hebron District Tourney

Elgin St. Edward 79, Alden 17

1947 Hebron District Tourney

Capron 73, Alden 21

Alden HS Graduates 1922 – 1935

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Submitted by Dean Bentley

Alden HS Graduates 1936-48

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Submitted by Dean Bentley

Seeking Your Assistance

If you have ANY further information about Alden High School, please share it with us. Photos and information can be e-mailed to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can write to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days
6439 N. Neva St.
Chicago, Il. 60631

Alden High School

Courtesy of Bruce Van Hoozen

Albion Community High School “Lions”

Posted on February 25, 2022November 2, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Albion High School

Photo Courtesy of Michelle Abrajano

The History of Albion High School

Albion (population 1,933) is located in southeastern Illinois and is the County Seat of Edwards County. The Illinois Routes of 130 and 15 intersect in the middle of Albion. The Southern Railroad makes its way through the south side of town. There is also a creek that flows to the east of town and a lake that sits to the south of town. For location sake, two towns of note in Albion’s area include Mt. Carmel 10 miles to the east and Mt. Vernon about 45 miles to the west.

According to the Illinois Trails web site, http://iltrails.org/edwards/index.html , Albion was “laid out” in 1830 by Morris Birkback and George Flower. It was not until 1860 however that the town became officially incorporated.

Albion began making schooling available for its children in the late 1800s. At some point Albion offered High School courses for its kids. The high school served Albion for about four decades. In the late 1940s all of the school districts in Edwards County agreed to consolidate their efforts to form one unified district in the county. This would include the towns of Bone Gap, Browns, Ellery, West Salem, Albion, and several small country school districts. It was decided to house the new high school in the town of Albion. The new district was named Edwards County School District and began operations in the fall of 1949 with the high school being located in Albion (see also www.echs.edwrds.k12.il.us/ for more information on this consolidation).

The Albion High School building pictured above was not the original, and has since been torn down.

Albion High School Quick Facts

Year opened: late 1800s

Year closed: 1949

Building used for: Edwards County High School

School nickname: the “Lions”

School colors: Red & Black

School Fight Song: unavailable

AthleticsAlbion High School is only listed on the IHSA web site (www.ihsa.org) in one sport, boy’s basketball. We also know that Albion HS participated in football for a while. It is quite probable that baseball and track were offered at the school. School nickname, colors, fight song, team records, coach’s names, and conference affiliation all are items of interest for this site.

Boys Basketball

The Albion High School boys had some good court skills on the hardwood. The only mention of the teams on the IHSA web site are the years and coach’s names for those years. The school did win a District title and even a Regional title. If you have any further information you can add to the Albion High basketball success please write to us via e-mail. Several basketball scores were found on a website titled “Illinois Postseason Basketball Scores” ( https://sites.google.com/site/xtmi2000/). The scores are from the annual IHSA State Tournament and are listed below.

1921-22 Olney District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd lost to Fairfield 38-19

1922-23 through 1929-30 Postseason scores, records, and coach’s names needed.

1930-31 IHSA District Champions Coach’s name & record needed

District Scores Needed

Bridgeport Sectional Tournament

1st Rd Lost to Vandalia 34-25

Vandalia lost to Lawrenceville in semi-final

VANDALIA (34): Walker 14, Jones 6, Oglesby 5, Royer 4, Murray 3, Crawford 2.

ALBION (25): Aulyian 8, Carter 7, Reid 5, Lucas 3, Ewing 2.

1931-32 Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1932-33 Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1933-34 Fairfield District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd lost to Mt. Erie 16-15

Mt. Erie lost to Mt. Vernon in semi-final

Mt. Vernon beat Fairfield in title game

1934-35 Fairfield District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Dahlgren 48-11

Semi-final lost to Crossville 38-30

Crossville lost to Fairfield in title game

1935-36 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

Albion did not compete in District

1st Rd lost to Crossville 40-35

Crossville lost to Mt. Carmel in semi-final

Mt. Carmel lost to Carmi in title game

1936-37 Mt. Carmel Regional Runner-Up Coach’s name & record needed

Albion did not compete in District

1st Rd Beat Bone Gap 55-14

Semi-final Beat Mt. Carmel 31-26

Title Game lost to Carmi 37-28

1937-38 Albion Hosted Regional Tourney Coach Harold Hutchins

Albion did not compete in District

Regional Scores Needed

Mt. Carmel beat Carmi in title game

1938-39 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach Harold Hutchins

Albion did not compete in District

1st Rd Beat Grayville 42-21

Semi-final lost to Carmi 40-32

Carmi lost to Mt. Carmel in title game

1939-40 IHSA Regional Champions Coach Harold Hutchins

Regional Scores Needed

Lawrenceville Regional Tourney

1st Rd Beat Fairfield 45-21

Semi-final lost to Casey 33-16

Casey beat Flat Rock in title game

1940-41 IHSA Regional Runner-Up Coach Harold Hutchins

Regional Scores Needed

Top two advance to Sectional

Lawrenceville Sectional Tourney

1st Rd lost to Flora 32-28

Flora lost to Paris in semi-final

Paris beat Mt. Carmel in title game

1941-42 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach Chester Gillette

1st Rd lost to Allendale 42-30

Allendale lost to Crossville in title game

1942-43 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach Chester Gillette

1st Rd lost to Mt. Carmel 32-19

Mt. Carmel beat Carmi in title game

1943-44 Postseason scores & record needed Coach Chester Gillette

1944-45 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach Chester Gillette

1st Rd lost to St. Francisville 24-20

St. Francisville lost to Grayville in semi-final

Grayville lost to Mt. Carmel in title game

1945-46 Carmi Regional Tournament Coach Byrl Jarrett

1st Rd lost to Grayville 30-23

Grayville lost to Mt. Carmel in semi-final

Mt. Carmel beat Allendale in title game

1946-47 Mt. Carmel Regional Tournament Coach David Hart

1st Rd lost to Allendale 39-28

Allendale lost to Crossville in semi-final

Crossville lost to Mt. Carmel in title game

1947-48 Carmi Regional Tournament Coach David Hart

1st Rd lost to Mt. Carmel 56-43

Mt. Carmel lost to Carmi in title game

1948-49 Mt. Carmel Regional Runner-Up Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Enfield 66-40

Semi-final Beat Allendale 55-44

Title Game lost to Carmi 38-28

**Final season as Albion High School. Became Edwards High School in the summer of 1949.

Football

From Dave Rigg:

“This (photo below) is the first football team at Albion High School in 1923-24. I have the names of the backfield and 6 or the 7 linemen. Still trying to get the missing name. Here’s what I have:
Line: Cyril Pierce, Gilbert Colyer, Wilbert Rigg, Wilmer Rigg, Harold Smith, and Glen Bunting.
Backfield: Quarterback (no helmet) Harold Hutchins (who later coached at Albion, Carmi & Mt. Vernon), Virgil Hortin, Warpy Longbons, and Lyman Racster.”

Albion HS Football Team of 1923

Submitted by Dave Rigg

Extra-Curricular Activities

The Albion Community High School kids joined in many activities that provided for a well-rounded education. The school had a strong music program including band and chorus, as well as many other clubs and organizations.

Albion High School Spring Concert – April 1933

Submitted by Mike Grace

Seeking Your Assistance

If you have ANY further information about Albion High School before it became Edwards County High School, please share it with us. Photos and information can be e-mailed to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can write to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva Ave.

Chicago, Il. 60631

Albion Community HS Class of 1934

Submitted by Mike Grace

Albion HS Class of 1934 at 50th Reunion

Submitted by Mike Grace

Albany High School

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Albany High School Building

Submitted by Cody Cutter

Albany Grade School Building

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The History of Albany High School

Albany (population 895) is located along the mighty Mississippi River in Whiteside County on State Highway 84. The town sits about 20 miles northeast of Moline. It was platted in the 1830’s with the river as a source of power. The railroad came into the town in the 1860’s and ensured Albany’s growth. The current population of Albany is approximately 1,100.

The town’s first school was established in 1860 on the east-facing corner of Lime Street and 1st Street. The first graduating high school class was in 1888 with five girls. A 1904 annex was built. Albany High School offered Basketball as an activity and may have offered other sports and activities as well. Additional history, as well as whether the school offered a full 4 years of curriculum, is not known to this author at this time.

Despite the growth promises, Albany High School shut it’s doors in 1944 and students went to neighboring Fulton and Cordova High Schools with the AHS school district paying the tuition. The original building was torn down sometime during either the 1980s or 90s. This school was converted into a grade school from 1944-1952. In 1952 a new grade school was built a few blocks from the older one, which served the community until closing in 2005.

Albany High School Quick Facts

Year school started: 1860

Year HS closed: 1944

Year GS closed: 2005

Consolidated to: Fulton River Bend School District

Albany HS nickname: “Panthers”(?)

Team colors: Red & White (?)

School Fight Song Not Available

Athletics

With not much known to this author about the history of the school, athletic information has been very difficult to come by. Aside from the fact that we know basketball was offered, and that a nickname of “Panthers” was used, we are in need of additional information for athletics and activities offered.

If You Have Any More Information…

Regarding Albany High School. especially more photos of the school or great teams you would like to share, please e-mail this web site at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also mail items to us at:

IHSGD Website

6439 N. Neva Ave.

Chicago, IL. 60631

Akin High School “Bulldogs”

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

The History of Akin High School

Akin (population approx. 100) is located in far south-central Illinois in the east-central portion of Franklin County. Akin is about 8 miles east of Benton. Akin is situated in a country setting on County Road 3 just east of County Road 17. The Illinois Central Railroad travels to the west of Akin. The town appears to be about 3 blocks from north to south and 3 blocks from east to west. Akin is an unicorporated town at this time.

We were unable to access any information on the internet regarding the history of the town of Akin and its former school. The only evidence we currently have that a high school once existed in Akin is from the Geneology Trails web address of http://genealogytrails.com/ill/franklin/schools.htm . This page simply lists a school called “Akin High School” with nothing further in support.

Our guess, judging by the size of the town and the history of other schools on this site, is that Akin likely offered a 2 or 3-year high school from the early 1920s through the late 1940s. If you have any further information regarding Akin or the former Akin High School please contact us at eganann@sbcglobal.net.

Dennis Smail tells the following about the current elementary school still functioning in Akin:

“From the map there seems to be some kind of school on the West end of town still standing, maybe a newer one, maybe the old one! It is called Akin Blacktop Elementary, and is very small if it is still operating….10 to 15 students per grade. There is some evidence that the school colors were / are red and black and the nickname is Bulldogs!”

Adam Rosoho also advises:

“As for the grade school at Akin, it is still operating. They are the Akin Bulldogs and their colors are red and white. The enrollment for Akin Grade School K-8 is 115 students. The school only offers Boys Basketball and Girls Volleyball.”

Akin High School Quick Facts

Year opened: 1920s?

Year closed: 1940s?

Consolidated to: Benton High School

Akin HS team nickname: possibly the “Bulldogs”

Team uniform colors: possibly Red & Black

School Fight Song: unavailable

Please Contact Us

If you have any information you can share with this web site regarding the town of Akin and its former high school please complete a School Submission Form or a Guest Commentary Form. You can also e-mail us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You may write us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva Ave.

Chicago, Il. 60631

Addison Driscoll Catholic High School “Highlanders”

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

The History of Driscoll Catholic High School

Addison (population 36,378) is located in the far northeastern portion of Illinois and is a western suburb of Chicago. Addison is situated in the northeastern portion of DuPage County. Interstate Highway 290 passes by the northside of Addison, while Interstate Highway 355 borders the west side of town. Illinois Routes 53, 64, 83, and U.S. Route 20 also pass through Addison.

Addison is named after a British writer named Joseph Addison. The town was incorporated as a city in Illinois in 1884. A nice history of the town can be found at http://www.friarscove.com/history.htm .

An excellent history of Addison Driscoll High School was found at the web address of http://www.driscollcatholic.org/AboutDriscoll/history.aspx . This history is copied below in its entirety.

Entrance to Driscoll High School

A building with glass doors

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Submitted by Mike Korby

History of Driscoll Catholic High School

In the mid-1960s, under the administration of Bishop Martin McNamara, first bishop of Joliet, plans were finalized for the creation of a new Catholic high school to be located in Addison, IL. The school was named in honor of Elizabeth F. Driscoll, a generous supporter of Diocesan education, and the Highlander was adopted as the official mascot.

In the fall of 1966 Driscoll Catholic High School opened its doors with an enrollment of 134 students. The faculty consisted of three Christian Brothers, five School Sisters of St. Francis, and three lay teachers. Over the next three years, an additional class of students was admitted every year until the 1969-1970 school year, when Driscoll became a full, four-year, co-educational institution.

Over the years, Driscoll has altered its programs to meet the changing academic needs of the nearly 5,000 students who have attended the school. Since 1986, the school has been operated solely by the Christian Brothers and their lay associates; Driscoll provides a high quality, college preparatory education in the tradition of St. John Baptist de la Salle. The school has students from over 40 elementary and middle schools, located in 25 towns and villages throughout suburban Cook and DuPage counties. Enrollment stands at approximately 410 students, with an average class size of 22 and a student/teacher ratio of 14:1. Driscoll is fully accredited by the State of Illinois and the North Central Associates of Secondary Schools, both of which require regular and extensive evaluations of school personnel, programs, and facilities. Driscoll is also a member of IHSA and the Lasallian Schools Association.

Driscoll offers three academic programs designed to challenge students at the highest level possible while offering assistance and guidance as needed. Honors and college-level advanced placement (AP) courses are offered to those students capable of the most rigorous of academic endeavors, while all courses offered as part of the College Prep I or College Prep II sequences are designed to prepare students for university study. Driscoll students boast an average composite ACT score of 23.1, while students in the honors program average a composite score of 27. Members of the Class of 2006 were awarded college scholarships and grants in excess of $2.5 million.

Driscoll also offers 18 interscholastic sports programs and 26 extracurricular clubs and activities. Since 1990, Driscoll has won nearly two-dozen conference championships, 15 regional or sectional championships, and 9 state titles.

In addition, Driscoll continues to promote a strong tradition of service to the community. As a requirement for graduation, each Driscoll student must perform 12 hours of community service per academic year, but many significantly surpass this number. Even the school’s annual fundraiser “Help-A-Thon” revolves around the central theme of service to the community.

Since 1966, nearly 5,000 students have walked the hallways of Driscoll Catholic High School. These students, our alumni, have created a lifetime of memories, they have shared joy and laughter, and they have studied hard and earned their diplomas. Together, they make up the history and tradition that is Driscoll Catholic High School.

Driscoll High School began to see a slippage in its enrollment in 2006. By 2009 the school’s enrollment had fallen to the point that it was suffering from economic hardships. In spite of the many athletic successes Driscoll was experiencing, the financial toll became too much of a burden. On April 2, 2009 the Christian Brothers decided that Driscoll high school would close after 43 years of service. Many fundraiser efforts went underway in order to save the high school, including millions from alumni across the world. Many appeals to the Diocese were also put forth. However, even that was not enough to prevent it’s closure.

Driscoll Catholic High School Quick Facts

Year opened: 1966

Year closed: 2009

School team nickname: the “Highlanders”

School team colors: Black, Old Gold, & Cream/White

School Fight Song: “Black and Gold”

Submitted by MIKE KORBY

Black and Gold come on let’s go
We’re gonna fight right through the foe
Shouting a battle cry
Whether we do or die
Side by side along we’ll go

Rah! Rah! Rah!

We will win the victory
And we will fight fight fight straight through
We’ll lead you on with cheers of loyalty
Come on and fight we’re right with you

DR DR DRIS CO CO COLL D R I S C O L L
DRISCOLL! DRISCOLL! DRISCOLL!

Driscoll HS Door To The Weightroom

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ATHLETICS

The athletic program at Driscoll Catholic High School was clearly one of the most successful in the state of Illinois during its tenure. The Highlanders had great successes on a state-wide level. The football program has several IHSA records that will likely never be broken. Among the many achievements attained by the Highlanders are the followng, as listed on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org) are:

12 – IHSA TEAM STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS!!

6 – IHSA Individual State Champions!!

6 – “Other” IHSA Team Final 4 Appearances!

10 – “Other” IHSA Team Elite 8 Appearances!

4 – “Other” IHSA Team Sweet 16 Appearances!

15 – Sectional Championships!

26 – Regional Championships!

31 – IHSA Individual Medalists!

FOOTBALL

The Driscoll High School football program will go down in Illinois high school football history as one of the most powerful and successful programs of its era. The Highlanders entered the IHSA playoffs a total of 18 times. The results are amazing:

8 – TOTAL IHSA State Championhips (8 – 0 in Title Games!!)

6 – IHSA Class 4A State Championships

2 – IHSA Class 3A State Championships

3 – IHSA Semi-Final Appearances

3 – IHSA Quarter-Final Appearances

2 – IHSA Sweet 16 Appearances

IHSA Football Playoff Records that will be tough to beat:

7 – CONSECUTIVE IHSA State Championships Won – (2001 – 2007)!!

This is likely one of the top accomplishments on a national level as well!

37 – CONSECUTIVE IHSA State Playoff Games Won – (2001 – 2008)!!

.848 – Playoff Winning Percentage

**Check out the many records set by the teams and players of Driscoll High School football at the IHSA web address of http://www.ihsa.org/activity/fb/records/index.htm

Below are the seasonal records and results as posted on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org):

1974-75    1 – 8                                                              Coach Joe Wardin
1975-76    4 – 5                                                              Coach Joe Wardin
1976-77    3 – 6    Coach John Benedetti
1977-78    6 – 3    Coach John Benedetti

1978-79    1 – 8 Coach Max Brunnell
1979-80    0 – 9 Coach Rich Marks
1980-81    1 – 8                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1981-82    3 – 6                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1982-83    3 – 6                                                              Coach Rich Marks

1983-84 10 – 2 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Rich Marks

Final Four Finalist

Beat Clifton (Central) 20 – 6
Beat Mahomet (M.-Seymour) 13 – 7
Lost to Monmouth 20 – 0

Monmouth Won State Championship

1984-85    5 – 4                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1985-86    4 – 5                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1986-87    4 – 5                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1987-88    3 – 6                                                              Coach Rich Marks
1988-89    4 – 5                                                              Coach Rich Marks

1989-90 8 – 2 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Gene Nudo

Lost to Momence 39 – 13

1990-91 11 – 3 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Gene Nudo

Advanced to Final Four

Beat Richmond (R.-Burton) 21 – 14
Beat Burlington (Central) 24 – 6
Beat Byron 17 – 6
Lost to Seneca 30 – 7

Seneca Won State Championship

1991-92 14 – 0 IHSA Class 3A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Gene Nudo

Undefeated Season

Beat Lisle (Sr.) 10 – 7
Beat Elmhurst (Immac. Concep.) 10 – 0
Beat Aurora (Central Catholic) 42 – 0
Beat Spring Valley (Hall) 21 – 0
Beat Robinson 42 – 20

1992-93 9 – 3 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Larry Orrico
Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Lisle (Sr.) 25 – 0
Beat Elmhurst (Immac. Concep.) 20-19
Lost to Marengo 15 – 13

Marengo placed 2nd

1993-94 4 – 5 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Rich Sharkey

Beat Harvard 12 – 7
Lost to Lombard (Montini) 21 – 0

1994-95 4 – 5 Coach Rich Sharkey

1995-96 7 – 3 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! Coach John Karpowicz

Lost to Maple Park (Kaneland) 21 – 0

1996-97 11 – 1 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! Coach John Karpowicz

Undefeated Regular Season

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Yorkville 55 – 20
Beat Maple Park (Kaneland) 24 – 6
Lost to Spring Valley (Hall) 22 – 21

Hall finished 2nd

1997-98 3 – 6 Coach John Karpowicz
1998-99 5 – 4 Coach Tim Racki

1999-00 9 – 2 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! CoachTim Racki

Beat Oregon 35 – 21
Lost to Benton 41 – 24

2000-01 11 – 2 IHSA Class 3A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Tim Racki

Final Four Finalist

Beat Bloomington (Cent Cath) 48 – 26
Beat Metropolis (Massac County) 38 – 13
Beat Burlington (Central) 35 – 21
Lost to Oregon 34 – 14

Oregon Finished 2nd

2001-02 12 – 2 IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Tim Racki

Beat Dunlap 28 – 7
Beat Lisle (Sr.) 38 – 19
Beat Pontiac 28 – 14
Beat Huntley 24 – 21
Beat Mt. Carmel 42 – 41 (2 OT)

2002-03 13 – 1 IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Tim Racki

                          Beat Burlington (Central) 17 – 13
Beat Lombard (Montini) 21 – 8
Beat Byron   39 – 18
Beat Princeton 23 – 3
Beat Mt. Carmel 42 – 0

2003-04  14 – 0    IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Tim Racki

Undefeated Season

Beat Richmond (R.-Burton) 45 – 14
Beat Winnebago 37 – 21
Beat Burlington (Central) 45 – 28
Beat Hillsboro 42 – 6
Beat Fairbury (Prairie Central) 37 – 21

2004-05 12 – 2 IHSA Class 3A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Tim Racki

Beat Dwight 41 – 6

Beat Stillman Valley 32 – 14

Beat Wilmington 14 – 11

Beat Tolono Unity 28 – 7

Beat Manlius Buruae Valley 37 – 14

2005-06 14 – 0 IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Mike Burzawa

Undeafeated Regular Season

Beat Harvard 49 – 0

Beat Hampshire 27 – 0

Beat Richmond Burton 31 – 15

Beat Coal City 30 – 7

Beat Newton 42 – 7

2006-07 13 – 1 IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Mike Burzawa

Beat Morton 12 – 7

Beat Bloomington Cent. Cath. 28 – 12

Beat Harvard 28 – 7

Beat Fairbury Prairie Central 17 – 7

Beat Breese Mater Dei 35 – 0

2007-08 14 – 0 IHSA Class 4A STATE CHAMPS! Coach Mike Burzawa
Undefeated Season

Beat Kankakee McNamara 47 – 19

Beat Chillicothe IVC 42 – 7

Beat Chicago Christian 48 – 7

Beat Coal City 41 – 14

Beat Bloomington Cent. Cath. 48 – 24

2008-09 9 – 3 IHSA Class 4A Qualifier! Coach Brandon New

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Herscher 42 – 14

Beat Mendota 14 – 7

Lost to Aurora Christian 24 – 17

Aurora Christian Placed 2nd

Addison (Driscoll) was 56-10 in IHSA Playoff competition!!

Driscoll Catholic High School has many records in the IHSA Football record books. Check out the IHSA web address of http://www.ihsa.org/activity/fb/records/index.htm to view these records, many of which will stand for decades to come!

BOYS BASEBALL

The Highlanders have enjoyed many successes on the baseball diamond as well, including THREE state championships, one second place finish and two third place finishes! Driscoll High School has MANY records listed in the IHSA record books. Check out the web address of http://www.ihsa.org/activity/ba/records/index.htm and enjoy!!

1969-70                                                                       Coach Ed Bobowski
1970-71   9 – 1                                                            Coach John James
1971-72                                                               Coach John Ostrowski
1972-73    9 – 1                                                            Coach Joe Wargin
1973-74   15 – 8                                                 Coach John Benedetti
1974-75     9 – 9                                                Coach John Benedetti
1975-76                                                             Coach John Benedetti
1976-77                                                                       Coach Dick Eufrasio
1977-78                                                                       Coach Dick Eufrasio

1978-79     3 – 8                                               Coach Dick Eufrasio
1979-80                                                           Coach Dick Eufrasio
1980-81    9 – 10                                                          Coach Rod Molek

1981-82 28 – 5 Regional Champions Coach Rod Molek

1982-83 19 – 5 Coach Rod Molek

1983-84 26 – 5 Regional Champions Coach Rod Molek

1984-85 25 – 11 Class ‘A’ Elite 8 Finalists!! Coach Rod Molek

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Eldarado 5-3

Eldarado lost in semi-final

1985-86   14 – 13                                                            Coach Rod Molek
1986-87   16 – 14                                                            Coach Rod Molek
1987-88 21 – 11                                                            Coach Rod Molek
1988-89   23 – 9                                                         Coach Rod Molek

1989-90 29 – 6 Class ‘A’ Elite 8 Finalists!! Coach Rod Molek

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Dupo 14 – 3

Dupo finished 2nd

1990-91 36 – 6 IHSA 3RD PLACE – CLASS ‘A’! Coach Rod Molek

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Dunlap 10 – 1

Final 4 Finalist

Lost to Harrisburg 2 – 1

Harrisburg finished 2nd

Consolation Game

Beat Effingham St. Anthony 3 – 0

1991-92 34 – 2 – 1 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Rod Molek

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Riverton 10 – 1

Final 4 Finalist

Beat Danville Schlarman 10 – 1

Championship Game

Beat Harrisburg 7 – 2

Coach Rod Molek overall – 280 – 97 – 1 as head coach for 12 years

1992-93 22 – 8 Coach Jeff Sefcik

1993-94 25 – 13 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Jeff Sefcik

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Carmi White County 7 – 1

Final 4 Finalist

Beat Nashville 3 – 2 (13 innings)

Championship Game

Beat Lewistown 6 – 0

1994-95 19 – 9 Coach Jeff Sefcik

1995-96 24 – 8 Regional Champions Coach Jeff Sefcik

1996-97 33 – 7 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Jeff Sefcik

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Teutopolis 10 – 7

Final 4 Finalist

Beat Rock Island Alleman 12 – 2

Championship Game

Beat Williamsville 8 – 6

1997-98 18 – 17 Coach Jeff Sefcik

1998-99 26 – 16 Elite 8 Finalists!! Coach Jeff Sefcik

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Herscher 4 – 3

Herscher became State Champs

1999-00 35 – 6 IHSA STATE 2ND PLACE!! Coach Jeff Sefcik

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat DuQuoin 9 – 2

Final 4 Finalist

Beat Teutopolis 6 – 3

Championship Game

Lost to Pleasant Plains 10 – 9

2000-01 31 – 6 – 1 Elite 8 Finalists!! Coach Jeff Sefcik

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Armstrong 6 – 5

Armstrong finished 3rd

2001-02 19 – 15 Regional Champions Coach Jeff Sefcik

Coach Jeff Sefcik overall 252 – 105 – 1 as head coach for 10 years.

2002-03   15 – 15                                                 Coach Sean Bieterman
2003-04   18 – 13                                                 Coach Sean Bieterman
2004-05   25 – 12                                                Coach Sean Bieterman

2005-06 35 – 4 IHSA STATE 3RD PLACE!! Coach Sean Bieterman

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Sherrard 2 – 0

Final 4 Finalist

Lost to Chillicothe IVC 6 – 4

Chillicothe won State Championship

Consolation Game

Beat Columbia 10 – 9

2006-07 24 – 8 Coach Sean Bieterman

2007-08 25 – 9 IHSA Elite 8 FInalist! Coach Sean Bieterman

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

2008-09 19 – 13 Coach Sean Bieterman

Coach Sean Bieterman overall 161 – 74 as head coach for 7 years.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Highlander Girls Basketball program really excelled during the late 2000s. Head coach Steve McCuiston guided the program during it’s prestigous final seasons, going from a combined record of 24-54 to 75-20 the next three years. The season, and program, cultimated with winning the IHSA Class 2A State Championship in Normal! All of this occured just a month before the closure of the school was announced. Driscoll is the only school in IHSA history to have a program win a state championship in it’s final year. We are looking for any records and such from years before 2003.

2003-04    9 – 16                                              Coach Steve McCuiston
2004-05    6 – 18                                              Coach Steve McCuiston
2005-06    9 – 20                                             Coach Steve McCuiston
2006-07  16 – 13                                                Coach Steve McCuiston

2007-08 25 – 6 Elite 8 Finalist Class ‘A’ Coach Steve McCuiston

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Kankakee McNamara 55-42

McNamara placed 4th

2008-09 34 – 1 IHSA STATE CHAMPS – ‘AA’ Coach Steve McCuiston
Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Kankakee McNamara 54 – 35

Final 4 Finalist

Beat Olney East Richland 44 – 29

Championship Game

Beat Hamilton 40 – 35

School’s Final Season!

BOYS BASKETBALL

The Driscoll Boys Basketball program has also enjoyed many successes on the hardwood. The program won IHSA Sectional championships in 1992 and 2003, as well as seven Regional championships and seven 20+ win seasons.

1977-78 Regional Champs

1978-79 19-8 Coach Tony Lux

1979-80 16-10 Coach M. Pisano

1980-81 14-13 Coach Jim Danforth

1981-82 14-13 Coach Jim Danforth

1982-83 3-20 Coach Jim Danforth

1983-84 14-12 Coach J. Leonard

1984-85 12-15 Coach J. Leonard

1985-86 13-14 Coach J. Leonard

1986-87 15-12 Coach Mark Kleeman

1987-88 15-12 Coach Mark Kleeman

1988-89 5-22 Coach Mark Kleeman

1989-90 12-14 Coach Mark Kleeman

1990-91 22-6 Regional Champs Coach Mark Kleeman

1991-92 27-3 Regional & Sectional Champs Coach Mark Kleeman

1992-93 14-13 Coach Mark Kleeman

1993-94 10-19 Regional Champs

1994-95 7-13

1995-96 13-13

1996-97 10-12 Coach Terry O’Donnell

1997-98 3-22

1998-99 Coach Vince Doran

1999-00 14-12 Coach Nick Latorre

2000-01 12-14 Coach Nick Latorre

2001-02 20-8 Coach Nick Latorre

2002-03 24-9 Regional & Sectional Champs Coach Nick Latorre

2003-04 24-7 Regional Champs Coach Nick Latorre

2004-05 15-14 Coach Nick Latorre

2005-06 17-13 Regional Champs Coach Nick Latorre

2006-07 21-7 Coach Nick Latorre

2007-08 21-9 Coach Nick Latorre

2008-09 No record available (school’s final season) Coach Adam Szyszko

BOYS GOLF

The Highlander Boys Golf program had two state medalists, four state qualifying teams, three Regional championships and one Sectional championship.

1975-76 Individual Medalist:

Randy Cochran Class ‘A’ 6TH Place!

1977-78 IHSA State Qualifier – 8TH Place!

Sectional Champions

Individual Medalist:

Doug Lieder Class ‘A’ 6TH Place!

Final Team Standings

1) Carmi                              612
2) Kankakee (McNamara)     614
3) Elgin (St. Edward)            637
4) Quincy (Notre Dame)        647
5) Auburn                            656
5) Dunlap                            656
5) Effingham (St. Anthony)    656
8) Addison (Driscoll)           659

1985-86 Regional Champions!

1990-91 Regional Champions!

1992-93 Team Qualified for State Finals

1993-94 Regional Champions!

Team Qualified for State Finals

1994-95 Team Qualified for State Finals

1996-97 Team Qualified for State Finals

GIRLS GOLF

The Highlander Girls Golf program had two state medalists throughout it’s history. Both Mary Ellen Murphy and “GiGi” DiGrazia finished among the top ten each year they competed. DiGrazia won the Class A State Championship in the school’s final season, 2008-09.

1977-78 Individual Medalist:

Mary Ellen Murphy – 8TH Place!

1978-79 Individual Medalist:

Mary Ellen Murphy – 4TH Place!

2006-07 Individual Medalist:

Gianna “GiGi” DiGrazia – 7TH Place!

2007-08 Individual Medalist:

Gianna “GiGi” DiGrazia – 2ND Place!

2008-09 Individual Medalist:

Gianna “GiGi” DiGrazia – STATE CHAMPION!

GIRLS SOFTBALL

The Highlander Softball program had many successful seasons in it’s history. The 1991-92 team made it to the Class A State Tournament.

1989-90 19 – 6 Coach Mike Batka
1990-91 8 – 11 Coach Mike Batka

1991-92 20 – 6 IHSA Class ‘A’ Elite 8 Finalist! Coach Mike Batka

Regional Champions

Sectional Champions

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Casey-Westfield 4 – 0

Casey-Westfield placed 3rd.

1992-93 21 – 5 Regional Champions Coach Mike Batka

1993-94   27 – 5 Coach Mike Batka
1998-99   12 – 14 Coach Mike Batka
1999-00   15 – 14 Coach Mike Batka
2000-01   28 – 8                                                        Coach Mike Batka

2001-02   17 – 14    Regional Champions Coach Mike Batka
2002-03   28 – 8      Regional Champions Coach Mike Batka
2003-04   25 – 13    Regional Champions Coach Mike Batka
2004-05   26 – 6 – 1 Regional Champions Coach Mike Batka

2005-06    5 – 20                                                     Coach Mike Poulos
2006-07   10 – 24                                              Coach Nick Christopher

BOYS SWIMMING

The Highlander Boys Swimming program had one individual medalist:

1999 Individual Medalist:

Anthony Arbogast 200 IM 12TH Place!!

GIRLS SWIMMING

The Highlander Girls Swimming program had two individuals that really stood out: Christina Ceppi and Amy Migawa. Ceppi had two top five finishes in 1981, while Migawa won two state championships each in 1996 and 1997!

1981 Individual Medalist:

Christina Ceppi 200 Free 5TH Place!!
Christina Ceppi 500 Free 4TH Place!!

1994 Individual Medalist:

Amy Migawa 200 IM 4TH Place!!
Amy Migawa 500 Free 2ND Place!!

1996 Individual Medalist:

Amy Migawa 200 IM State Champion!!
Amy Migawa 500 Free State Champion!!

1997 Individual Medalist:

Amy Migawa 200 Free State Champion!!

Amy Migawa 500 Free State Champion!!

CROSS COUNTRY

The Highlander Cross Country program had two runners (one boy and one girl) who ran in the top 25 at the Class A State Meet. The boy’s program won a Regional championship in 1984.

BOYS

1980 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Lance Murphy 4TH Place!!

1984-85 Regional Champions

GIRLS

2005 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Vanessa Bain 21ST Place!!

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

The Driscoll Track and Field program had four medalists in addition to one relay team at the Class A State Meet throughout it’s history. One athlete, Lance Murphy, won the 3200 Meter Run in 1981!

1981 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Lance Murphy 1600M Run 8TH Place!!

Lance Murphy 3200M Run State Champion!!

1985 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Bill Walenda Discus 4TH Place!!

2005 Class ‘A’ Relay Medalists:

4X100 Relay 5TH Place!!

4X200 Relay 5TH Place!!

2008 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalists: Coach Pat Ryan

Pierre Washington-Steel 100M Dash 6TH Place!!

Jeremy Wilk 800M Run 6TH Place!!

2009 Class ‘1A’ Individual Medalists: Coach Dierdre Archer

Pierre Washington-Steel 100M Dash 2ND Place!!

Jeremy Wilk 800M Run 4TH Place!!

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

The Driscoll Girls Track and Field program had two Class A State Meet medalists in it’s history.

1983 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Renee Simek 200M Dash 6TH Place!!

2006 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Vanessa Bain 3200M Run 5TH Place!!

BOYS WRESTLING

The Driscoll Wrestling program had one wrestler who placed in the top five at the Class A State Meet. We are looking for more records regarding Driscoll Wrestling.

2008 Class ‘A’ Individual Medalist:

Tom Randich Weight Class 189 4TH Place!!

2009 Class ‘1A’ Individual Medalist:

Jake Randich Weight Class 189 2ND Place!!

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Below are two seasons we found information from on the IHSA Web Site regarding the Driscoll Volleyball program. We are looking for more records regarding Driscoll Volleyball.

2004-05 Coach Nicole Flores
2007-08 4 – 25 Coach Kristin Milley

CHEERLEADING

2005-06 Team Qualified for State Finals Competition! Coach Calvin Buado

CHESS

The Driscoll Chess program had two seasons in the mid-1980s where they achieved State Meet success:

1986 IHSA Class ‘A’ 7TH Place!!

Final Team Standings

1) Urbana University HS 6.0

2) Aurora Marmion Academy        5.0, 146.0
3) Rockford Christian Life             5.0, 126.0
4) Roanoke-Benson                      4.0, 110.3
5) Ridge Farm                            4.0, 082.5
6) Sherrard                                4.0, 075.3
7) Addison Driscoll                     3.0

1987 IHSA Class ‘A’ 10TH Place!!

Final Team Standings

1) Aurora Illinois Math & Science   5.0
2) Poplar Grove North Boone         4.5, 153.0
3) Stillman Valley                         4.5, 121.0
4) Roanoke-Benson                      4.5, 120.0
5) Urbana University HS                4.0, 131.0
6) Aurora Marmion Academy         4.0, 116.0
7) Westmont                                4.0, 106.0
8) Hampshire                                3.5
9) Rockford Christian Life               3.0, 092.5
10)Addison Driscoll                     3.0, 091.0

SCHOLASTIC BOWL

The Driscoll Scholastic Bowl program won one Regional championship: in 2003. We are looking for more records regarding the “Schol Bowl” program.

2000-01
2001-02
2002-03 Regional Champions

MEMORIES

**From Mary Jo Tuohy:

“I read with interest your site on closed Illinois high schools. I’d like to thank Ms. Oneyear and Sr. Julene Stromberg for my superb math skills!”

**From Peter Rung (Class of 1974):

“The Driscoll School Song was composed by the Sophomore Basketball team while watching the varsity game in the winter of 1972-1973. Driscoll was playing Marmion Academy in a lopsided game. It was borne out of frustration and was quickly sung at subsequent games by the cheerleaders and fans alike.

True story! I was there.”

IF YOU HAVE ANY MORE INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE …

There’s a lot more to Driscoll Catholic than athletics, and the athletic records. We’d like to make this page even bigger with personal memories you may have about the school (and we know there are plenty of them).

If you have any further information you would like to share regarding Driscoll High School before its closure, please e-mail us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also write to us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il. 60631

Adair Community High School

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Adair High School Building

Sent to us by John Bybee

The History of Adair Community High School

Adair (population approximately 250) is located in upper-western Illinois in the southeast quarter of McDonough County. The town sits about 10 miles east-southeast of Macomb. Illinois Route 136 is the main roadway to and from Adair. County Highway 3 also travels through town. The Burlington Northern Railroad makes its way through Adair as well.

The history of the town and its former school system is in need of research. Adair likely provided educational opportunities for its children by the late 1800s. Adair Community High School District #384 was orgnized in 1919 and a beautiful brick school house was built close to the grade school in 1920. Adair High School served the children of the town through the late 1940s. The year was 1952 when Adair Community High School was closed.. The kids of Adair became part of the Macomb school district upon the closing of the high school.

We are told that the class of 1940 was ACHS’ biggest, with 22 graduates!

Adair High School Quick Facts

Year opened: 1919

Year closed: 1952

Consolidated to: Macomb High School

Adair HS team nickname: unavailable

Adair HS team colors: unavailable

School Fight Song: unavailable

Athletics and Other Acitivites

We know that Adair High School competed in boys basketball and track. It is quite possible that baseball was a part of the athletic program as well. Currently we do not have any team records or coach’s names to share with you on this page.

We also believe that Adair formed an athletic co-op with its neighbor Industry in the late 1940s and 1950s. The co-op was called Southeastern.

Boys Track & Field

One male athlete from Adair High carried the banner for the folks of his hometown at the IHSA State Track Meet in 1925. Clarence H. Carrison placed FIFTH in the 880 yard run in the 1925 IHSA State ‘B’ Track Meet!!

1924-25B Individual Medalist – Clarence H. Carrison 880 Yard Run FIFTH Place

Boys Basketball

Adair High Schol did not win any IHSA hardware that we could find. They did, however, compete in the annual IHSA State basketball tournament. We located some scores involving Adair HS on a website titled “Illinois Postseason Basketball Scores.” These scores are posted below. Season records, coach’s names, and other information is welcome.

1921-22 Canton District Tournament Coach’s name and record needed

1st Rd lost to Glasford 16-14

Glasford lost to Canton in title game

1922-23 through 1932-33 Postseason scores, records, and coaches’ names needed.

1933-34 Macomb District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Good Hope 25-24

2nd Rd lost to Macomb Western 38-23

1934-35 Canton District Tournament Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Ellisville 25-10

2nd Rd lost to Cuba 34-23

Cuba lost to Fairview in semi-final

Fairview lost to Canton in title game

1935-36 through 1951-52 Postseason scores, records, and coaches’ names needed.

Girls Basketball

The ladies competed in basketball with other schools in the area, at least in the 1930s for certain. An article in the Macomb Daily Journal, written February 1, 1933, was located by Beau Spencer. It states the following:

“The Brooklyn girls quintet, one of the strongest girls basketball teams in this section, is to meet the Adair girls team in a basketball program at the Industry High School gym tomorrow night. The Brooklyn team has lost only one game in three seasons. The Adair team has not lost a game in two years, though the McDonough team has not played as strong opponents as Brooklyn.”

Extra-Curricular Activities

We are also certain that, like many small schools, the folks of Adair valued a good, well-rounded education for their children..We are confident that band, chorus, and several club activites were offered to the children who attended Adair High. If you have any of this information to share with us, please follow the directions below.

We Need Your Assistance…

…in researching the history and accomplishments attained by the Adair residents and their former high school. If you have any other information you would like to see added to this page, please write to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also send items to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il. 60631

Abingdon High School “Commandos”

Posted on February 25, 2022June 29, 2023 by davenanninga in Uncategorized

Abindgon High School Building 2013

Early Abingdon High School Building

A brick building with trees in front

Description automatically generated with low confidence

The History of Abingdon High School

Abingdon (population 3,612) is located in upper west central Illinois in the southwest corner of Knox County. Abingdon is about 12 miles southwest of Galesburg. Illinois Route 41 is the main roadway leading to Abingdon. County Highway 23 also passes though Abingdon.The Burlington Northern Railroad travels though the east side of town.

According to Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abingdon,_Illinois) the area in which Abingdon is situated was first settled in 1828. The town of Abingdon was incorporated in 1857,

A book titled “Pictorial Abingdon, A History of Abingdon, Illinois” was located on the internet at the web address of http://archive.org/details/pictorialabingdo00shoo . The book was published in 1897. The following is a summary of what the book states about Abingdon and its high school.

Abingdon was originally platted in 1836 by J.D. Swarts. A village called South Abingdon was was platted in 1849 by a man named Frederick Snyders. The towns were established in very close proximity and flourished from the beginning. In 1857 the two towns were joined together and were incorporated as the city of Abingdon. The town’s name comes from the name of J.D. Swarts’ hometown of the same name in Maryland.

The Abingdon Fire Department owns a record of its own from those early days. This book states “the old running team of the fire department was a world champion one, winning the state championship three successive times. Their record of the 300 yard run and place a man to the top the 30 foot ladder is 43 3/4 seconds and has never been beaten.”

The Abingdon Academy was established in 1853 by a man named P.H. Murphy. In 1855 the school began offering college courses. This school lasted until 1877 when it closed. The building in which it was locate sat vacant for many years until another attempt was made at bulding a college that was called the Normal School, however this school soon faded as well. In 1894 Hedding College purchased this building and it became the Normal and Music Hall.

Hedding Collegiate Seminary was established in 1855. In 1857 it became known as the Hedding Seminary and Central Illinois Female College. The school changed its name to Hedding College in 1875. The school is named after a Methodist Bishop, Elizah Hedding. Hedding College fourished until it was ultimately closed in 1927. The grounds became the home of Roosevelt Military Academy School for a brief period of time. The Hedding College buildings were razed in 1947. Today the school grounds are home to Abingdon Hedding Elementary School. .

North Abingdon High School was a brick building built in 1868. We know that over the years other school buildings have been built and have served as Abingdon High School. Abingdon High School served the community on a solo basis for 145 years. In 2013 voters approved a plan to consolidate their educational efforts with the nearby community of Avon and Avon High School. The newly formed Abingdon-Avon High School District will be in effect for the 2013-14 school year. Abingdon-Avon High School will find its home in Abingdon..

Links that have assisted in research for this page:

1.) www.d217.net

2.) http://www.ihsa.org/Schools/SchoolDirectory.aspx?url=/data/school/a.htm

3.) http://archive.org/details/pictorialabingdo00shoo

Great American Heroes

One amazing fact about Abingdon High School was sent to us by Erich Murphy. Abingdon and Abingdon High School are home to TWO United States Congressional Medal of Honor recipients!

Abingdon HS Robert Dunlap – 1938 Basketball Photo

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Submitted by Jeffrey Shumaker

“Robert Dunlap graduated from Abingdon High School, as did a cousin, James Bond Stockdale. USMC Capt. Robert Dunlap, Congressional Medal of Honor winner in WWII, earned this most prestigious award for his efforts on Iwo Jima. Stockdale earned the Congressional Medal of Honor after being held prisoner at Hoa Lo Prison during the Vietnam War.

Interesting that such a small school would have two CMH winners. Dunlap was a star athlete at Abingdon before becoming an athlete at Monmouth College. Stockdale also went to Monmouth College before transferring to the Naval Academy.”

To read more about these truly great men please visit these pages:

Robert Dunlap – http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/2720/dunlap-robert-hugo.php

James Stockdale – http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/3423/stockdale-james-b.php

Abingdon High School Quick Facts

Year opened: 1868

Year closed: 2013

Consoidated to: Abingdon-Avon High School

Abingdon HS mascot: “Commandos”

Abingdon HS team colors: Red & Green

Abingdon HS fight song: “On Commandos”

University of Wisconsin Fight Song Tune

Lyrics submitted by Derek Stebbins

On Commandos, on Commandos,

Show them how we stand!

Always ready, Always ready,

We’re known throughout the land!

RAH! RAH! RAH!

On Commandos, on Commandos,

Fight for victory!

Never will we falter,

In this land of liberty!

(Shouted) Yeah Red, Yeah Green.

Yeah, Abingdon, some team!

ATHLETICS

The Abingdon High School Commandos had some incredible successes in athletics during the course of their existence. State Championships, numerous Sectional, Regional and District Championships, and numerous individual state-finals medalists showed the many great abilities possessed by Commando athletes.

Below are the accomplishments as recorded on the IHSA website. (www.ihsa.org). We are looking for the Abingdon High School fight song lyrics and tune as well. If you have any further information you wish to see added regarding athletics or other extra-curricular activities please write to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.

GIRLS BOWLING

Illinois high school sports trivia question: What team won the first IHSA State Championship in girls bowling? Well, of course, it was Abingdon High School!! In fact the Abingdon High School bowling program was a force to be reckoned with from the very beginning and for several years to follow. The credentials summed up, by the numbers, are as follows:

3 – IHSA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS!! (All won in a one-class system!)

2 – IHSA State Finals SECOND Place finishes!

2 – IHSA State Finals THIRD Place finishes!

5 – IHSA Tournament Sectional Titles Won!

7 – IHSA Individual Medals Won!

8 – IHSA Tournament District Titles Won!

12 – Placed in the top-ten in IHSA Finals competition 12 times!

14 – Qualifed for IHSA Finals 14 seasons!

The Abingdon High School girls bowling program carried the torch for small schools throughout Illinois for many years. Coach Margaret Atkins is one of the most decorated coaches in the history of Illinois High School girls bowling competition. She led the Lady Commando bowlers to the IHSA State Finals in 11 of the first 12 years the competition was held. Coach Randy Owens assumed control in 1983-84 season and led the Commandos to three more top-ten finishes.

Six Lady Commandos earned a total of seven IHSA Individual Medals! The top finish of any Abingdon High School bowler was Amy Weathers, who finished in 2nd Place in the 1986-87 tournament. Jill Eaton won medals in two separate tournaments earning her this special distinction.

In a sport where there is only one class, Abingdon’s accomplishment is even more incredible. The competition was many times larger in enrollment than the AHS kds. Below are the results we located on the IHSA website. If you have further information please contact us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.

1972-73 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) ABINGDON 1584

2.) Schaumburg 1581

3.) Elgin

4.) Rockford East

1973-74 District Champions! Coach Margaret Atkins

Qualified for State Finals

1974-75 IHSA FINALS THIRD PLACE!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Dixon 9749

2.) Arl. Hts Forest View 9520

3.) ABINGDON 9394

4.) Chicago Lane Tech 9176

1975-76 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) ABINGDON 9490

2.) Arl. Hts. Forest View 9381

3.) Rockford East 9357

4.) Aurora West 9239

1976-77 IHSA FINALS SECOND PLACE!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Arl Hts Forest View 9785

2.) ABINGDON 9781

3.) Evergreen Park 9647

4.) Oak Lawn Richards 9424

1977-78 District Champions! Coach Margaret Atkins

Qualified for State Finals

1978-79 IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) ABINGDON 9905

2.) Dixon 9847

3.) Dekalb 9665

4.) Evergreen Park 9500

1979-80 IHSA FINALS THIRD PLACE!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Oly. Fields Rich Central 10136

2.) Dixon 9913

3.) ABINGDON 9706

Individual Medalist: Denise Epperson – 6th Place

4.) Chillicothe IVC 9476

1980-81 IHSA FINALS SECOND PLACE!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Dekalb 10067

2.) ABINGDON 10010

Individual Medalist: Jill Eaton – 12th Place

3.) Evergreen Park 9861

4.) Dixon 9750

1981-82 District Champions! Coach Margaret Atkins

Qualified for State Finals

1982-83 IHSA Finals Seventh Place!! Coach Margaret Atkins

District Champions

Sectional Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Olympia Fields Rich Central

2.) Dixon

3.) Schaumburg

4.) Aurora West

5.) Sterling

6.) Morris

7.) ABINGDON

Individual Medalists: Jill Eaton – 6th Place

Diane Hughes – 10th Place

1983-84 IHSA Finals Seventh Place!! Coach Randy Owen

District Champions

Sectional Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Olympia Fields Rich Central

2.) Rock Island

3.) Burbank Reavis

4.) Sterling

5.) Buffalo Grove

6.) Palatine

7.) ABINGDON

1986-87 IHSA Finals Seventh Place!! Coach Randy Owen

District Champions

Sectional Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Roselle Lake Park

2.) Sterling

3.) Morris

4.) Lockport

5.) Rock Island

6.) Hoffman Estates

7.) ABINGDON

Individual Medalist: Amy Weathers – 2ND PLACE!

1987-88 IHSA Finals Eighth Place!! Coach Randy Owen

District Champions

Sectional Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Bensenville Fenton

2.) Olympia Fields Rich Central

3.) Burbank Reavis

4.) Lockport

5.) Lansing T.F. South

6.) Sterling

7.) Elk Gorve

8.) ABINGDON

1988-89 IHSA Finals Fifth Place!! Coach Tom Lytle

District Champions

Sectional Champions

State Finals Results

1.) Bensenville Fenton

2.) Burbank Reavis

3.) Aurora West

4.) Dixon

5.) ABINGDON

Individual Medalists: Karla Cecil – 7th Place

Debbie Weathers – 12th Place

BOYS BASKETBALL

The Commandos enjoyed MANY good seasons on the hardwood court! In the early days AHS faired very well in the state tourney. The boys of 1912-13 placed in the final 6 of the IHSA State Tourney (the tourney had a different format at that time). This was followed in 1930 by an Elite 8 appearance. Both of these seasons occured in a one-class basketball tournament system!

In all the boys won 2 District Tournaments, 14 Regional Tournaments, 2 Sectional Tournaments, and qualified for the IHSA State Finals on two occassions. Many great seasons were listed on the IHSA website, however we are missing the season records and coaches names of most of the AHS basketball seasons. The postseason information listed from the IHSA tournament was located on a website titled “Illinois Postseason Basketball Scores.” Though most of the season records and coaches names are missing, it does appear that Coach Tim Pearison had some excellent teams between 1985-86 and 1995-96.

If you have any further information regarding the boys basketball program at Abingdon High School please contact us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.

1912-13 Final 6 Finalists!! Coach Webster Barclay Rose

District Champions!

Lost in 1st Round at State

Peoria Manual 47, Abingdon 20

Peoria Manual lost in title game

1913-14 through 1921-22 scores unavailable.

1922-23 Galesburg District Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Kewanee 26-20

Kewanee lost in 2nd Rd.

1923-24 through 1928-29 scores unavailable.

1929-30 14 – 5 Elite 8 Finalists!! Coach Raymond Johnson

District Champions!

(District Scores Unavailable)

Sectional Champions!!

Beat Macomb Western 32-23

Beat Freeport 23-22

Beat Rock Island 23-16

Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Bloomington HS 20-19

Bloomington lost in title game

1930-31 through 1932-33 scores unavailable.

1933-34 Galesburg District Tourney

1st Rd. – no score given

2nd Rd. – Beat Gilson Hawcreek 34-14

Lost in 3rd Rd. – no score given

1934-35 Galesburg District Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Wataga 51-9

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 34-15

Galesburg won District title.

1935-36 Galesburg Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!

1st Rd. – Beat Prairie City 29-13

2nd Rd. – Beat Altona 22-21

Title Game – Lost to Galesburg 34-19

1936-37 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Maquon 32-20

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 26-11

Galesburg won District title.

1937-38 scores unavailable.

Abingdon High School Basketball Team 1937-38

Submitted by Jeffrey Shumaker

1938-39 Galesburg Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!!

1st Rd. – Beat Williamsfield 37-9

2nd Rd. – Beat Victoria 19-17

Title Game – Lost to Galesburg 39-20

1939-40 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Mills

1st Rd Beat Williamsfield 47-22

Semi-final Beat Lafayette 32-27

Title Game Beat Galesburg 29-25

Moline Sectional Tourney Qualifier

1st Rd. – Rock Island 39, AHS 34

Rock Island lost to Moline in title game.

See Team Roster listed in photo below.

Abingdon High School Cheers 1940

Submitted by Jeff Shumaker

Galesburg Regional 1940 Bracket

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Submitted by Jeff Shumaker

Galesburg Regional Tourney Rosters 1940

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Submitted by Jeff Shumaker (Left click on photo for larger view)

1940-41 scores unavailable.

1941-42 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Galesburg Corpus Christi 33-32

2nd Rd. – Lost to Knoxville 39-21

1942-43 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 45-22

Galesburg won Regional title.

1943-44 scores unavailable

1944-45 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Corpus Christi 38-36

Corpus Christi lost in semi-final.

1945-46 Galesburg District Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Williamsfield 41-34

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 73-26

Galesburg won Regional title.

1946-47 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Oneida 74-23

Oneida lost in title game to Galesburg

1947-48 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Wataga 51-49 (O/T)

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 62-30

Galesburg won District title.

1948-49 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Wataga 51-28

2nd Rd. – Lost to Princeville 47-43

ROVA beat Princeville for the title.

1949-50 Galesburg Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!!

1st Rd. – Beat Williamsfield 43-33

2nd Rd. – Beat Galesburg Corpus Christi 53-41

Title Game – Lost to ROVA 54-50

1950-51 IHSA Regional Champions!! Head Coach Eldon Gearhart

Beat Williamsfield 76-53 Asst. Coach Don Viar

Beat Galesburg Corpus Christi 53-47

Beat Knoxville 46-35

Sectional Tourney Qualifier

1st Rd. – Beat Sherrard 52-30

Lost title game to Macomb Western 65-62

Abingdon HS Regional Champs 1950-51

Submitted by Jerry Stanners

Members of the 1950-51 squad in the photo above, from left to right:

Frank VanderWert, Norm Reneau (hidden behind Frank), Jim MacMillan, Gene Nelson, Jack Way, Coach Gearhart, Moe Lawson, Jerry Stanners, Ray Wallis, Lewis Ratliff, Carroll Shiplett, mgr., Frank Unger, mgr., Jim Bulkeley

Cheerleaders, L to R: Betty Onion, Phyllis Boyd, Barb Hunt, Ethel Plasters, Willa Dean Rood

1951-52 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Galesburg Corpus Christi 54-47

Corpus Christi lost in semi-final.

1952-53 Galesburg Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!!

Beat Galva 58-51

Beat Galesburg Corpus Christi 61-60

Title Game – Lost to Galesburg 83-52

1953-54 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Avon 47-43

2nd Rd. – Lost to ROVA 73-67

ROVA lost in title game.

1954-55 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat ROVA 64-55

2nd Rd. – Lost to Cambridge 63-55

Cambridge lost in title game.

1955-56 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat ROVA 92-75

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 75-64

Galesburg won Regional title.

1956-57 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Cambridge 71-66

Cambridge lost in semi-final round.

1957-58 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Avon 78-54

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galva 73-70

Galva lost title game to Galesburg.

1958-59 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Galesburg Corpus Christi 66-47

2nd Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 77-51

Galesburg won Regional title.

1959-60 scores unavailable

1960-61 Galesburg Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!!

1st. Rd. – Beat Cambridge 78-50

2nd Rd. – Beat Knoxville 75-73

Title Game – Lost to Galesburg 74-53

1961-62 Macomb Regional Tourney

1st. Rd. Lost to Biggsville Union 61-56

Union lost in semi-final to Galesburg.

1962-63 Bushnell Regional Tourney – 2nd Place!!

1st. Rd. – Beat Knoxville 83-58

2nd Rd. – Beat Monmouth 68-60

Title Game – Lost to Galesburg 80-60

1963-64 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st. Rd. – Lost to Macomb Western 57-54

Macomb Western lost in 2nd round.

1964-65 and 1965-66 – post season scores unavailable.

1966-67 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 80-50

Galesburg won Regional title.

1967-68 Macomb Regional Tourney

. 1st. Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 97-35

Galesburg won Regional title.

1968-69 Bushnell Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 110-55

Galesburg won Regional title.

1969-70 Galesburg Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Knoxville 71-49

Knoxville lost title game to Galesburg.

1970-71 Macomb Regional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Galesburg 74-67

Galesburg lost to Macomb in title game.

1971-72 Knoxville Regional Champions!! (Coaches name unavailable)

1st Rd. – Beat ROVA 56-41

2nd Rd. – Beat Monmouth 54-52

Title Game – Beat Alexis 71-59

Bushnell Sectional Tourney

1st. Rd. – Lost to Farmington 56-53

Farmington won Sectional title.

Farmington lost to Thomson in Sweet 16

1972-73 IHSA Regional Champions!! (Coaches name unavailable)

(scores unavailable)

Bushnell Sectional Tourney

1st Rd. – Lost to Orion 72-64

Orion lost title game to BPC

1973-74 10-14 IHSA Class ‘A’ Regional Tourney Coach Larry Little

Lost to Monmouth Yorkwood 71-55

1974-75 17-8 IHSA Class ‘A’ Regional Tourney Coach Paul Sandborg

Lost to ROVA 74-69

1975-76 Postseason scores and record needed. Coach Paul Sandborg

1976-77 6-18 IHSA Class ‘A’ Regional Tourney Coach Paul Sandborg

Lost to Monmouth 51-46

1977-78 2-20 IHSA Class ‘A’ Regional Tourney Coach Gary Carlton

Lost to Monmouth 70-53

1978-79 15-9 IHSA Class ‘A’ Regional Tourney Coach Gary Carlton

Lost to Monmouth Yorkwood 63-61

1979-80 Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1980-81 Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1981-82 Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1982-83 IHSA Regional Champions!! (Coaches name unavailable)

(scores unavailable)

Bushnell Sectional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Peoria Heights 37-32

Title Game – Lost to ROVA 58-51

ROVA lost to Freeport Aquin in Sweet 16

1985-86 20 – 6 Coach Tim Pearison

1986-87 7 – 18 Coach Tim Pearison

1987-88 13 – 13 Coach Tim Pearison

1988-89 14 – 11 Coach Tim Pearison

1989-90 8 – 16 Coach Tim Pearison

1990-91 13 – 13 Coach Tim Pearison

1991-92 21 – 6 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Tim Pearison

(postseason scores unavailable)

IHSA Sectional Qualifier

(scores needed)

1992-93 22 – 4 Coach Tim Pearison

1993-94 15 – 9 Coach Tim Pearison

1994-95 19 – 9 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Tim Pearison

(postseason scores unavailable)

IHSA Sectional Qualifier

(scores needed)

1995-96 22 – 6 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Tim Pearison

(postseason scores unavailable)

IHSA Sectional Qualifier

(scores needed)

*On January 18, 1996 in a game against Bushnell-Prairie City, the Commandos’ Kris Stoneking made 13 three-point baskets. This ranks as #2 all-time in IHSA history for three-point baskets made in a game!

1996-97 Record and postseason scores unavailable.

1997-98 24 – 3 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Jim O’Flaherty

(Regional scores unavailable)

Sectional Tourney

Lost to Farmington 63-42

Farmington won Sectional.

Farmington placed 3rd in State

1998-99 27 – 5 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Jim Youngman

(Regional scores unavailable)

Sectional Tourney

Beat Wethersfield 82-69

Lost to title game to Farmington 60-48

Farmington lost in Elite 8 Round

1999-00 23 – 3 Coach Jim Youngman

2000-01 25 – 3 Coach Jim Youngman

2001-02 20 – 7 Coach Mark Sandstrom

2002-03 24 – 6 IHSA Sweet 16 Finalists!! Coach Mark Sandstrom

Regional & Sectional Champions!!

(Regional Scores Unavailable)

Sectional Tourney

1st Rd. – Beat Rockridge 53-49

Title Game – Beat Yorkwood 56-45

Super-Sectional Game

Lost to Mt. Carroll 59-48

Mt. Carroll lost state title game.

2003-04 21 – 7 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Mark Sandstrom

Regional scores needed

Sectional Tourney

Lost to Rock Island Alleman 60-35

Alleman beat Farmington for title.

Alleman lost to QND in Elite 8 Round.

2004-05 19 – 8 Coach Mark Sandstrom

2005-06 7 – 19 Coach Mark Sandstrom

2006-07 23 – 6 IHSA Regional Champions!! Coach Mark Sandstrom

(Regional scores unavailable)

Sectional Tourney

Beat Warsaw 44-42

Lost title game to Farmington 57-38

Farmington placed 4th in state tourney.

2007-08 19 – 9 Coach Mark Sandstrom

2008-09 – 2010-11 records and postseason scores unavailable.

2011-12 18 – 12 IHSA Sweet 16 Finalists! Coach Jeremy Anderson

(Season Record Needed)

Class 1A Regional Champions

Semi-final Beat ROWVA 45-29

Title Game Beat Wethersfield 46-38

IHSA Sectional Tourney Runner-Up

Semi-final Beat Mendon Unity 70-68

Title Game Lost to Brimfield 53-40

Brimfield entered game undefeated and ranked #1 in state.

Brimfield lost in Elite 8 Rd to Tourney Runner-Up Carrollton

Abingdon Commandos ‘Sweet 16’ 2011-12

Submitted by David Crose

**Regarding the 2011-12 basketball team from fan David Crose:

“The Commandos lost 3 times this year to the undefeated Brimfield team, lost to a 3A team and played several 2A teams. They beat 3rd ranked in 2A Monmouth-Roseville. The tallest player on Abingdon was 6’1″.”

2012-13 14 – 14 School’s final season. Coach Kent Jones

BOYS FOOTBALL

The “Boys of Fall” represented Abingdon High School very well over the years. In the 93 seasons listed from 1916-17 through 2012-13 the AHS football program had an overall record of 427 wins, 329 losses, and 23 ties. Included were three perfect undefeated/untied seasons, five more seasons in which the team was undefeated but tied a game or two, and eight seasons with one loss. The Commandos made the IHSA playoffs on 12 occassions, advancing to the second round twice.

Coaches Ray Johnson (1926-36), Don Viar (1945-59), Leon O’Neil (1969-93), and Dennis Larson (1995-2009) each had lengthy stays at the helm of the football program. Dennis Larson led the Commandos to seven consecutive playoff appearances (1996-2002). The Abingdon High School football season records are listed below as provided on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org). Please contact us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net if you have any further information to add to this section.,

1916-17 3 – 1 – 1 Coach Ira Wrigley

1917-18 record not available

1918-19 2 – 1 Coach Myles Robinison

1919-20 0 – 4 Coach Millard Vandermeek

1920-21 1 – 5 Coach John Steketee

1921-22 4 – 3 Coach Ray Murphy

1922-23 5 – 4 Coach John Gillespie

1923-24 6 – 1 – 1 Coach Charles Anderson

1924-25 6 – 0 – 1 Undefeated Season! Coach George Anderson

1925-26 5 – 3 Coach George Anderson

1926-27 5 – 0 – 2 Undefeated Season! Coach Ray Johnson

1927-28 3 – 4 – 1 Coach Ray Johnson

1928-29 8 – 0 Undefeated/Untied Season!! Coach Ray Johnson

1929-30 2 – 3 – 2 Coach Ray Johnson

1930-31 6 – 0 – 1 Undefeated Season! Coach Ray Johnson

1931-32 4 – 2 – 1 Coach Ray Johnson

1932-33 5 – 2 Coach Ray Johnson

1933-34 3 – 3 – 1 Coach Ray Johnson

1934-35 2 – 5 – 1 Coach Ray Johnson

1935-36 5 – 2 – 1 Coach Ray Johnson

1936-37 4 – 3 Coach Ray Johnson

1937-38 5 – 2 Coach Culver Mills

1938-39 4 – 5 Coach Culver Mills

1939-40 2 – 5 Coach Culver Mills

1940-41 1 – 6 Coach Culver Mills

1941-42 Coach Morris

1942-43 6 – 1 Coach Lester

1943-44 2 – 6 Coach Lester

1944-45 6 – 2 Coach Hams

1945-46 1 – 6 Coach Don Viar

1946-47 1 – 6 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1947-48 2 – 5 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1948-49 8 – 0 Undefeated/Untied Season!! Coach Don Viar

Little Six Conference Champs!

Abingdon HS Commandos, 1948 Undefeated Champions

A group of people posing for a photo

Description automatically generated

Submitted by Billy Spurgeon

Abingdon HS 1948 Team Article Continued

Submitted by Billy Spurgeon (left click on photo for larger view)

Abingdon HS Football Article of 1948 Champions

A picture containing text, newspaper, receipt

Description automatically generated

Submitted by Billy Spurgeon (left click on photo for larger view)

Abingdon Newspaper Article from 1966

A picture containing text, newspaper

Description automatically generated

Submitted by Billy Spurgeon (left click on photo for larger view)

1949-50 7 – 2 Coach Don Viar

1950-51 7 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1951-52 2 – 6 Coach Don Viar

1952-53 6 – 2 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1953-54 7 – 2 Coach Don Viar

1954-55 8 – 0 Undefeated/Untied Season!! Coach Don Viar

1955-56 7 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1956-57 5 – 4 Coach Don Viar

1957-58 4 – 3 – 1 Coach Don Viar

1958-59 8 – 0 – 1 Undefeated Season! Coach Don Viar

1959-60 5 – 2 Coach Don Viar

1960-61 7 – 0 – 1 Undefeated Season! Coach Wallis

1961-62 5 – 2 – 1 Coach Wallis

1962-63 3 – 5 Coach Robert Kniss

1963-64 Coach Robert Kniss

1964-65 1 – 7 Coach Cooper

1965-66 4 – 4 Coach Cooper

1966-67 4 – 4 Coach Cooper

1967-68 3 – 4 – 1 (Coach’s name needed)

1968-69 (Coach’s name needed)

1969-70 0 – 8 Coach Leon O’Neil

1970-71 3 – 5 Coach Leon O’Neil

1971-72 5 – 3 – 1 Coach Leon O’Neil

1972-73 7 – 1 Coach Leon O’Neil

1973-74 5 – 4 – 1 Coach Leon O’Neil

1974-75 2 – 7 Coach Leon O’Neil

1975-76 7 – 2 Coach Leon O’Neil

1976-77 5 – 4 Coach Leon O’Neil

1977-78 4 – 5 Coach Leon O’Neil

1978-79 8 – 1 Coach Leon O’Neil

1979-80 7 – 2 Coach Leon O’Neil

1980-81 7 – 2 Coach Leon O’Neil

1981-82 2 – 7 Coach Leon O’Neil

1982-83 7 – 2 Coach Leon O’Neil

1983-84 7 – 2 Coach Leon O’Neil

1984-85 5 – 4 Coach Leon O’Neil

1985-86 8 – 2 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Leon O’Neil

1st Rd. – Lost to Princeville 26-19

Princeville lost in quarter-final round.

1986-87 5 – 4 Coach Leon O’Neil

1987-88 6 – 4 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Leon O’Neil

1st Rd. – Lost to ROWVA 7-6

ROWVA lost in quarter-final round.

1988-89 7 – 3 IHSA Class 2A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Leon O;Neil

1st Rd. – Lost to Prophetstown 40-10

Prophetstown lost in 2nd round.

1989-90 5 – 4 Coach Leon O’Neil

1990-91 4 – 5 Coach Leon O’Neil

1991-92 4 – 5 Coach Leon O’Neil

1992-93 4 – 5 Coach Leon O’Neil

1993-94 6 – 4 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Leon O’Neil

1st. Rd. – Lost to Avon 35-16

Avon lost in 2nd round.

1994-95 5 – 4 Coach Richard Lewis

1995-96 1 – 8 Coach Dennis Larson

1996-97 7 – 3 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Lost to Monmouth Warren 46-14

Warren lost in quarter-final round.

*Beat Bushnell-Prairie City 69-44 on October 11, 1996. The 113 points combined by both teams ranks as the 20th highest scoring game in IHSA history!

1997-98 7 – 3 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Lost to Monmouth Warren 34-18

Warren lost in second round.

1998-99 7 – 3 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Lost to Lexington 35-13

Lexington lost in semi-final round.

1999-00 6 – 4 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Lost to Carrollton 34 – 0

Carrollton lost in second round.

2000-01 9 – 2 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Beat to Virginia 50-22

2nd Rd. – Lost to Cambridge 29-16

Cambridge lost in qarter-final round.

2001-02 8 – 3 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Beat Colfax Ridgeview 22-0

2nd Rd. – Lost to Monmouth Warren 28-18

Warren lost in semi-final round.

2002-03 5 – 5 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Dennis Larson

1st.Rd.- Lost to Stronghurst Southern 38-0

Southern lost in quarter-final round.

2003-04 3 – 6 Coach Dennis Larson

2004-05 2 – 7 Coach Dennis Larson

2005-06 3 – 6 Coach Dennis Larson

2006-07 2 – 7 Coach Dennis Larson

2007-08 1 – 8 Coach Dennis Larson

2008-09 2 – 7 Coach Dennis Larson

2009-10 3 – 6 Coach Dennis Larson

2010-11 4 -5 Coach Rick Quinn

2011-12 6 – 4 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Rick Quinn

1st Rd. – Lost to Gibson City 31-8

Gibson City lost in 2nd Rd.

2012-13 6 – 4 IHSA Class 1A Playoff Qualifier! Coach Rick Quinn

1st Rd. – Lost to Lena-Winslow 34-19

Lena-Winslow lost in quarter-final round.

Final Season as Abingdon High School “Commandos’.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The AHS Lady Commandos had some excellent seasons on the hardwood court. The girls won a total of SIX IHSA Regional titles and made it to the championship of the Sectional (Sweet 16!) on one occasion. Coaches names and season records are needed for these and other Abingdon High School girls basketball seasons. Please send any information to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.

1984-85 Regional Champions!! Coach’s name needed

1990-91 Regional Champions!! Coach’s name needed

1991-92 Regional Champions!! Coach’s name needed

1996-97 Regional Champions!! Coach’s name needed

2002-03 12 – 14 Coach Roger Thurman

2004-05 Regional Champions!! Coach Roger Thurman

(Regional scores unavailable)

Sectional Tourney

Beat Wethersfield 44-37

Title Game – Lost to Alleman 52-23

Alleman won IHSA Class A Tourney

2011-12 Regional Champions!! Coach Roger Thurman

Beat Biggsville West Central 46-29

Beat Lewistown 60-45 (title game)

Sectional Tourney

Lost to Illini Bluffs 59-40

Illini Bluffs finished in 3rd Place at Finals

GIRLS SOFTBALL

Girls softball at Abingdon High won FOUR Regional titles and made it to the Sweet 16 on three occassions. In the 2011-12 season the team lost to Payson-Seymour by a score of 3 – 2 in the Sectional title game. Payson-Seymour would go on to appear in the IHSA Championship game and place second. Season records and coaches names are needed for these and every other season for the Abingdon High School softball program.

1997-98 Sweet 16 Finalists! Coach’s name & record needed.

Regional Champions

Title Game – Beat Farmington 1-0

Sectional Tourney

Beat Hamilton 4 – 1

Title Game – Lost to Macomb 4-1

Macomb lost in quarter-final round.

1998-99 27 – 3 Coach Jim Youngman

Lost Reg. Title Game to Macomb 2-1

Macomb lost in quarter-final round.

1999-00 29 – 5 Coach Jim Youngman

2000-01 25 – 5 Sweet 16 Finalists! Coach Jim Youngman

Regional Champions!

Title Game-Beat Farmington 2-1

Sectional Tourney

Beat Macomb 3-0

Lost to Quincy Notre Dame 2-1

QND lost in quarter-final rd

2001-02 Regional Champions! Coach’s name & record needed.

Sectional Tourney

Lost to Farmington 6-1

Farmington lost in quarter-final rd.

2011-12 Sweet 16 Finalists! Coach Lynn Jones

Regional Champions!

Sectional Tourney

Won first game.

Lost title game to Payson-Seymour 3-2

Payson-Seymour lost in state title game.

AHS Softball & Baseball Regional Champions 2011-12

Submitted by David Crose

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

The AHS Lady Commando netters won a total of TWO DISTRICT and THREE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS through the years. We are in need of season records of these teams as well as coaches names. If you have this or any other information regarding the volleyball program at Abingdon High School please contact us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net .

1974-75 District Champions!

1981-82 District Champions!

1984-85 Regional Champions!

1985-86 Regional Champions!

1996-97 20 – 9 – 2 Regional Champions! Coach Cindy Paulus

1998-99 20 – 12 Coach Cindy Paulus

1999-00 17 – 16 – 1 Coach Cindy Paulus

2000-01 14 – 18 – 3 Coach Cindy Paulus

2001-02 5 – 26 – 1 Coach Cindy Paulus

2002-03 12 – 19 – 5 Coach Cindy Paulus

2003-04 16 – 15 – 3 Coach Cindy Paulus

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

The Abingdon High School thinclads of the boys track team earned a total of 13 medals at the IHSA State Track Meet. In 1925 in fact, Chet Wilmoth earned a GOLD MEDAL in 880 Yard Run at the Class ‘B’ event! Five second place medals were earned as well, including one by Chet Wilmoth in the same event in 1924. In addition to the individual medals won, the AHS boys won District titles in two consecutive years in the early 1950s.

1905-06 Robert Marshall Pole Vault 2nd Place

1921-22B Leland Cline 1-Mile Run 3rd Place

1922-23B Leland Cline 440 Yard Dash 3rd Place

Lee Shelton 220 Yard Low Hurdles 4th Place

Harold Wright 880 Yard Run 8th Place

1923-24B Lee Shelton 220 Yard Low Hurdles 2nd Place

Chet Wilmoth 880 Yard Run 2nd Place

1924-25B Chet Wilmoth 880 Yard Run STATE CHAMPION!!

1949-50 Team won District Championship!

1950-51 Team won District Championship!

1975-76A Steve Baker 440 Yard Dash 5th Place

1978-79A Mike Simmert Triple Jump 7th Place

1980-81A Relay Team 4 X 200 Meter 7th Place

1983-84A Dana Epperson 110 Meter High Hurdles 2nd Place

1987-88A Dave Pringle 110 Meter High Hurdles 2nd Place

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

A total of five medals were won by four different athletes for the girls track program. In 1977-78 Janet Turner brought home the program’s only STATE CHAMPION medal by winning the Long Jump going 18′ 4-1/2″! Cathy Martin won two medals for AHS in the 1982-83 state track meet.

1977-78 Janet Turner IHSA Individual Medalist – Long Jump STATE CHAMPION!

1982-83 Cathy Martin IHSA Individual Medalist – Shot Put 3rd Place!

Discus 5th Place!

1984-85 Karen Austin IHSA Individual Medalist – 3200M Run 4th Place!

1992-93 Carla Brown IHSA Individual Medalist – High Jump 2nd Place!

BOYS BASEBALL

Records for the boys baseball program were only available for 1985-86 through 2011-12. During this era the Commandos had four 20-win seasons and earned a Regional title in the 2011-12 season. One player, Gary Cameron, still has the 3rd highest batting average for a season in IHSA history which he accomplished in the 1990-91 season.

1985-86 11 – 15 Coach Tim Pearison

1987-88 10 – 12 Coach Larry Wherley

1988-89 6 – 13 Coach Larry Wherley

1989-90 6 – 11 Coach Larry Wherley

1990-91 10 – 15 Coach Larry Wherley

*The Commandos’ Gary Cameron had 47 hits in 74 at bats this season (1991). His batting average of .635 ranks #3 all-time in IHSA history!

1991-92 11 – 11 Coach Larry Wherley

1992-93 11 – 7 Coach Larry Wherley

1993-94 9 – 10 Coach Larry Wherley

1994-95 14 – 9 Coach Patrick Hise

1995-96 18 – 2 Coach Patrick Hise

1996-97 7 – 16 Coach Patrick Hise

1997-98 5 – 16 Coach Larry Wherley

1998-99 12 – 12 Coach Larry Wherley

1999-00 5 – 24 Coach Larry Wherley

2000-01 11 – 15 Coach Larry Wherley

2001-02 10 – 12 Coach Larry Wherley

2002-03 11 – 14 Coach Larry Wherley

2003-04 9 – 17 Coach Larry Wherley

2004-05 9 – 19 Coach Larry Wherley

2005-06 17 – 16 Coach Joe Nichols

2006-07 18 – 16 Coach Joe Nichols

2007-08 16 – 17 Coach Joe Nichols

2008-09 22 – 10 Coach Joe Nichols

2009-10 20 – 15 Coach Joe Nichols

2010-11 21 – 10 Coach Joe Nichols

2011-12 25 – 12 IHSA Sweet 16 Finalist! Coach Joe Nichols

IHSA Regional Champions

Semi-final Beat Princeville 11-1 (6 innings)

Title Game Beat Biggsville West Central 7-2

IHSA Sectional Tourney Runner-Up

Semi-final Beat Wethersfield 10-1

Title Game lost to Tremont 7-4

Abingdon HS Baseball Sweet 16 – 2011-12

Submitted by David Crose

2012-13 (School’s final season) Coach Jeremy Pickrel

BOYS GOLF

The golf program was led by one linkster who earned a medal at the IHSA State golf tournament in 1986. Todd Werder brought home a 7th Place finish! Please contact us if you have further information on the AHS boys golf program.

1986-87A Individual Medalist – Todd Werder 7th Place

GIRLS GOLF

The Lady Commandos had two players earn individual medals at IHSA state finals play. Jill Werder, in fact, earned a top ten finish in each of her four years playing at Abingdon High making her the most decorated medalist in AHS history! Jill’s top finish was THIRD PLACE in the 1985-86 season. Jill was joined at State in her senior season (1987-88) by Kristin Milligan who finished just one spot behind Jill in seventh place.

1984-85 Jill Werder IHSA Individual Medalist – 8th Place!

1985-86 Jill Werder IHSA Individual Medalist – 3rd Place!

1986-87 Jill Werder IHSA Individual Medalist – 6th Place!

1987-88 Jill Werder IHSA Individual Medalist – 6th Place!

Kristin Milligan IHSA Individual Medalist – 7th Place!

OTHER ACTIVITIES AT ABINGDON HIGH SCHOOL

We are certain athletics were not the only form of extra-curricular activities offered at Abingdon High. A team from AHS placed eighth at Music Sweepstakes State Meet competition in the 1973-74 school year. We are confident that choir, band, and other musical opportunities were a part of campus life at AHS.

It is likely that many other clubs such as Future Farmers of America and National Honor Society were a part of the AHS experience. Please contact us if you have information regarding these activities.

MUSIC SWEEPSTAKES

Abingdon High School placed 8th in the Class B state meet competition in Music Sweepstakes in the 1973-74 school year. If you have any information on this or any other year at Abingdon High please contact us via e-mail at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net .

1973-74 Class B Competition Team Placed 8th in State!

Team Results

1.) Harvard

2.) Eureka

3.) Sandwich

4.) Stockton

5.) Herscher

6.) Nashville

7.) Clifton Central

8.) ABINGDON

MEMORIES & FACTS

The 2011-2012 school year was a great year for Commando sports. Many lifelong residents say that 2011-2012 was one of the most successful boys/girls sports years in Abingdon High School history. The football team made the playoffs for the first time in 9 years, the girls basketball team won a Regional title, the boys basketball team won a Regional title and made the Sweet 16, the girls softball team won a Regional title and made the Sweet 16 and the boys baseball team won the only Regional Baseball title in Abingdon’s baseball history and made the Sweet 16!

IF YOU HAVE FURTHER INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADDED…

…to this page regarding Abingdon High School please contact us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. We are happy to add photos and any other information you feel made Abingdon High School a special place to attend and experience. You may also send items to us at the following address:

IHSGD Website

6439 N. Neva Ave.

Chicago, Il. 60631