PoleVaultPower.com

Greetings:

It is my pleasure to share the good news of Jim Lonergan's selection to the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches' Association (ITCCCA) Hall of Fame, Class of 2011. As you know, Jim has been a dedicated Track and Field coach throughout his 33-year teaching career. His expertise in the pole vault is exceptional. Jim's selection to the ITCCCA Hall of Fame is a well deserved honor.

The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 8, at Oak Park-River Forest High School at the association's annual clinic and awards luncheon. A formal announcement of this year's class and further details will be available on the website: www.itccca.com

Thanks to those who seconded Jim's nomination.

Be sure to offer him your congratulations on this wonderful honor.

Congrats Jim! Well deserved!

(I couldn't find this on www.itccca.com though.)

Wow! I just found out this was posted. I am very humbled by this whole thing and VERY grateful for all who took the time in my behalf. Years ago, I started coaching the vault because I just thought it was such a cool event. I have been so very fortunate to work with and get to know so many outstanding athletes and coaches. Each of you have contributed to who I've become as a coach and an advocate for the vault. An honor like this gives one pause to reflect and it's rewarding to know you've made an impact on the sport, the event, and the lives of young people. Thank you, Jim

http://www.pioneerlocal.com/parkridge/s ... s1.article


South coach Lonergan earns hall-of-fame nod

Jim Longergan


December 6, 2010

BOYS TRACK -- What began as a high school student's enjoyment of a sport and later became a young teacher's way to connect with his students has led Maine South's Jim Lonergan to a lofty place.

After 32 years of coaching track and field's jump events in District 207, Lonergan has been selected for the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He'll be formally inducted during a ceremony at Oak Park-River Forest on Jan. 8.

Lonergan said he's honored and grateful for the recognition.

"It wasn't on my radar at all," he said. "You like to think you've made an impact on people's lives. But you tend to think of it more in terms of immediate impact with the kids you're coaching at the time and not in any broader sense."

The 1974 Maine South graduate was among the coaches who proposed rules requiring larger and safer landing pits for vaulters. He also advocated making pole vault an IHSA-recognized event for girls as well as boys.

He's coached 38 state qualifers in pole vault, long jump, triple jump and high jump. Along the way, Lonergan has officiated at many high-profile college track meets.

None of which, Lonergan said, would have occurred without strong and steady support from family and school.

Well deserved, Jim. Longevity is oftentimes the best measure of a coach. You're no "flash in the pan". :^) You've put in your time, and it shows. You have been a steady force in Illinois Pole Vault for a long time, and I appreciate that. Keep up the good work!

Tim Winder

Hey, thanks so much, Tim. We like to think that we've made an impact and it's gratifying to be recognized. There is no doubting your impact on our "vault world" and I thank you for your influence on me and lots and lots of kids.
have a wonderful Christmas--
Jim