In a historic first for both Plainfield North High School and the Illinois Athletic Directors Association (IADA), Athletic Director Ron Lear and Assistant Athletic Director George Sam have been named IADA Division 3 Athletic Director and Assistant Athletic Director of the Year, respectively.
Each year, the IADA recognizes outstanding athletic leadership across seven divisions statewide.
Division 3, which includes 125 schools, selects its honorees through a nomination and voting process led by fellow athletic directors in the division. Winners were formally recognized at the IADA annual banquet held at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria during the May conference.
This marks the first time a District 202 Athletic Director and Assistant Athletic Director have received the award and the first time in IADA’s history that both honors have gone to individuals from the same school.
“I am extremely honored to receive this award and represent Plainfield North,” said Lear, who will retire at the end of the school year.
“I would like to thank the IADA for the outstanding work they do mentoring athletic directors, and all the athletic directors in Division 3 who work with us daily. For them to vote us in, is amazing.” Lear said.
The recognition not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the culture of leadership and dedication that defines the athletic programs at PNHS.
“This is a high honor, and to share it with Mr. Sam makes it even more special. He is going to be an awesome athletic director at North next year. This award shows we hired the right person.”
Sam will succeed Lear as athletic director. “Being named the IADA Division 3 Assistant Athletic Director of the Year is a tremendous honor, made even more meaningful by the opportunity to share this recognition with Mr. Lear,” Sam said.
“His leadership and guidance have been instrumental in my growth, and I am honored to be stepping into the role at Plainfield North. This award reflects the incredible journey we’ve shared and the strong foundation he’s built for our athletic program.”
PNHS principal Ross Draper praised the milestone. “North’s school community is proud of Ron and George for winning these awards. With Ron retiring this year, it's a great way to recognize his years of hard work and dedication to the athletes and coaches at North. We are proud of both and their accomplishments.”