Jefferson’s of Topeka is pleased to announce that Marco Hunter has been named Jefferson’s Topeka Coach of the Year. Hunter coaches basketball for the Holton High School Wildcats, where he also teaches psychology. Hunter has been teaching and coaching in Kansas—mostly in the Topeka area—for 20 years.
Coach Hunter was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by athletes and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Coach’s Day on Oct. 6, serves to recognize one of Topeka’s many deserving coaches. Jefferson’s selected Hunter as the Topeka Coach of the Year for his meaningful and personal connections with all of his athletes.
“Coach Hunter’s nominators spoke of his big heart,” said Jefferson’s President Brandon Graham. “He loves his players like his own, and he’ll be the first to step up in a time of crisis. He’s supportive and consistent, and willing to wear any hat that is asked for him for the benefit of his kids. We’re honored to recognize him for his hard work.”
Hunter will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and his achievement will be commemorated with a “Jefferson’s Coach of the Year” plaque that will be displayed in the Topeka Jefferson’s.
“I have been very blessed and fortunate to have served under some of the best coaches in Kansas,” Hunter said in a statement. “It is very humbling to know that I have been able to help change programs and shape the lives of young men and women who want to succeed on the basketball court, in the classroom, and also in life.”
Last year was the launch of the Coach of the Year program, with Alyx Nash, volleyball coach for Topeka West High School, selected as the first-ever Topeka Coach of the Year.
The Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award was open to coaches of any sport working with athletes of any age. Coaches could be nominated by athletes, parents and guardians of athletes, school officials, or other community members.