Polte
Named Coach of the Year,
Esmond, Kling, Zellmer honored
By Billy Cruz
Assistant Sports Editor
Women’s head volleyball coach Laurie Polte was named the NJCAA Region IV District A Coach of the Year for the 2001 season. Polte guided her team to a 30-win series and a berth into the Region IV Finals.
Polte admitted she was happy with the honor, but was a bit surprised with the recognition.
"I am very happy I was chosen for the honor," said the head coach. I was shocked that the Kishwaukee coach did not win the honor after the season his team had."
Polte came to IVCC in 1999, after resigning as the head coach at Hall High School after she guided her team to back-to-back Elite Eight appearances in 1996 and 1997. She coached at Tiskilwa High School in 1992-93 before coaching at Hall in 1994 when she was the frosh/soph coach. In 1995 she coached both the freshmen and sophomore squads. She was also the varsity assistant coach for the 1994 and 1995 seasons, which included an Elite Eight berth during the ’95 season.
Along with Polte, three players were also recognized for their fine seasons on the court.
Lisa Esmond, Lindsey Kling, and Dani Zellmer were all named to the All- Arrowhead Conference First Team, while the three were also tabbed to the All-Region IV District A First Team. Kling received a third honor as she was selected to the All-Tournament Region IV District A First Team.
"All of the girls were deserving of their awards," said Polte. They were not only the leaders for our team, but in the entire region."