Two Central Nebraska coaches named finalists for national coach of the year

LINCOLN — A pair of Central Nebraska coaches are among those being considered for a national coach of the year award.

Lexington Boys Cross Country Coach Sam Jilka and Central City Wrestling Coach Darin Garfield were listed among the 12 Nebraska coaches and an athletic director chosen as finalists for the honor given out by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association. The nominations were made by the Nebraska Coaches Association and were based on each person’s career accomplishments. Criteria included longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage.

Eight finalists in 19 different national sports categories will be honored at a banquet in July. A national coach of the year will be chosen for each sports category.

Jilka’s teams have won four Class B team state championships in his 24 years as coach, including the last two titles. Garfield has coached the Bison to three team state wrestling championships in Class C and one in Class B.

NATIONAL HALL OF FAME: Two Nebraska legendary coaches and contributors Jon Appleget, Fremont and Jerry Bartee, Omaha will be inducted into the national high school coaching hall of fame at the same NHSACA Convention.  Hall of Fame ceremonies will take place in Lincoln on July 25.

All Nebraska nominees: