LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools is celebrating the selection of several local coaches who have been named 2023-2024 National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches of the Year. These coaches, recognized for their excellence in high school sports, have contributed significantly to the athletic programs at Chopticon and Leonardtown High Schools.
Each year, the NFHS honors outstanding coaches in various sports across the nation, selecting one for both boys’ and girls’ teams based on participation numbers. The coaches selected must be actively coaching during the academic year of their recognition. This year’s awards celebrate the achievements and dedication of coaches for the 2023-2024 school year.
From St. Mary’s County, five coaches have received this distinguished honor. The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA) announced the following local honorees:
- Kevin Cioppa, Softball, Chopticon High School
- David Darden, Golf, Leonardtown High School
- Luke Kokolios, Boys Soccer, Leonardtown High School
- Alex Marley, Swimming, Leonardtown High School
- Kelly Schmidt, Cross Country, Chopticon High School
These coaches have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to their respective sports, positively impacting the lives of their student-athletes and representing the St. Mary’s County community at the highest level.
The NFHS Coach of the Year awards continue to serve as a way to honor and encourage excellence in high school sports across the nation, highlighting the vital role coaches play in the development of young athletes both on and off the field.
