Chester's Coach Bryan Lee is 2010 Class 1A Football Coach of the Year

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Chester High School Head Football Coach, Bryan Lee, recently learned that he had been honored as the 2010 Class 1A Football Coach of the Year. The honor was bestowed Wednesday March 23 at the Southern Illinois Coaches Association (SICA) Banquet held in DuQuoin, Illinois.

It was Lee's first time attending the SICA Banquet and what a time it was as he received the honor as 1A Football Coach of the Year. This year marked the first year for the Yellow Jackets to play in the Black Diamond Conference and the Jackets earned a record of 8-1 in the BDC and 8-2 overall.

Lee came to Chester three years ago and led the Jackets to the IHSA State Football Playoffs each of those three years. He has an overall record of 20-10 and stands fifth on the all-time wins list at CHS. He only needs two more wins to tie the record of former Yellow Jackets coach Jerry Germain who currently holds the fourth spot on the prestigious list.

When asked about the honor Lee was very modest stating, "I am very honored to be receiving this award, but I do not thrive on such awards. It is nice to be recognized by your peers." The members of the SICA vote each year on this and other awards and Lee was chosen by a vote of his peers.

Lee is already looking toward next year as the many of the players are already working in the weight room and establishing a "team atmosphere" among themselves. He gives credit to Jim Howie, Assistant Coach, and the other coaches who are helping to monitor the weight room workouts. He notes that he, the other coaches and the squad are really excited about their outlook for the 2011 football season.