LEONARDTOWN, Md., June 2, 2025 — St. Mary’s Ryken High School announced that four of its coaches—Jon Lombardo, Chris Palombi, Gary Wynn, and Lewis—have been named Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) Coaches of the Year for the 2024–25 school year. The awards recognize their exceptional leadership and dedication to student-athletes in boys lacrosse, boys ice hockey, football, and another unspecified sport.
Jon Lombardo, head boys lacrosse coach since 2020, earned the honor for guiding his team with skill and commitment. Chris Palombi, head boys ice hockey coach since the 2009–10 season, secured the award for the second consecutive year, reflecting his consistent impact on the program. Gary Wynn, head football coach since 2022, was recognized for fostering excellence on the gridiron. Coach Lewis, also honored, contributes to the school’s athletic success.
Football
Boys Ice Hockey
Boys Lacrosse
Softball
Each coach was celebrated for their mentorship and positive influence within the St. Mary’s Ryken community. “Thank you, Coach Lewis, Lombardo, Palombi, and Wynn, for inspiring our students to achieve greatness both on and off the field,” the school stated in its announcement. Their efforts have strengthened the school’s athletic programs and embodied the values of teamwork and perseverance.
The WCAC, a competitive athletic conference in the Washington, D.C., area, includes top Catholic schools, making the Coach of the Year awards a prestigious accolade. The recognition highlights the coaches’ ability to lead their teams to success while nurturing the personal growth of their athletes. St. Mary’s Ryken, a private Catholic school in Leonardtown, emphasizes holistic development, and its athletic programs play a key role in shaping student character.
Lombardo’s leadership in lacrosse has elevated the program over his five-year tenure, fostering discipline and skill. Palombi’s long-standing role in ice hockey, spanning over a decade, has built a strong team culture, evidenced by his repeat recognition. Wynn’s football program, under his guidance, continues to grow, reflecting his strategic approach since joining in 2022. Lewis’s contributions, while less detailed, are equally vital to the school’s athletic achievements.
The coaches’ impact extends beyond wins, as they mentor students in balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth. St. Mary’s Ryken’s athletic department benefits from their commitment, which aligns with the school’s mission to develop well-rounded individuals. The WCAC awards underscore the strength of the school’s coaching staff and their role in upholding the institution’s values.
