Two veteran coaches from the District have each been recognized as a Coach of the Year by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

Paul Koretzki, girls cross-country coach, and Bob Szymanski, boys cross-country coach, were among only four coaches from Suffolk County who were bestowed with the honor.

The criteria for the honor include the number of years of coaching, career coaching records, participation in leagues/sectional committees and being a positive role model with their school and community.

“Coach Koretzki and Coach Szymanski bring many years of experience to the SWR cross-country program,” said Mark Passamonte, Director of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Nurses. “Their coaching style holds the athletes accountable in a way that they respond positively. This is a well-deserved recognition for two outstanding coaches who have positively impacted many young lives.”

The two men are now eligible for the National Federation of High Schools regional and national Coach of the Year awards.