Matt Troha, Assistant Executive Director of the Illinois High School Association, was recently honored by
Coach and Athletic Director magazine in its inaugural "40 Under 40," a group of exemplary sports professionals nominated by their peers for accomplishments during their young careers. The selections were made in partnership with the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA). The group was feted on Monday, June 25, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, at NHSACA's annual convention.
The honorees represent a broad spectrum of sports industry professionals, from coaches and athletic directors, to sports news reporters and industry suppliers. Troha was the only state high school association executive selected. Two Illinois educators were also honored: Patrik Pistorio, head football coach at South Elgin High School, and Jackie Randall, Girls Athletic Director at Elk Grove High School.
Troha joined the IHSA in 2008 after three years as Sports Information Director of the collegiate Midwest Conference. Since then he has been a tireless worker and ubiquitous presence at IHSA state final events. Troha brought the IHSA into the social media world with several online initiatives and inaugurated "IHSAState", a department of the IHSA's web site that highlights positive stories about high school sports and activities. Troha also runs the IHSA's new lacrosse program, which crowned its first boys and girls champions last month. For the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), he has served on the Publications Committee, which produces High School Today magazine, and sits on the NFHS Network advisory council.
"It’s great to see Matt receive this well deserved recognition," said Craig Anderson, executive director of the IHSA. "He has been a tireless supporter of everything IHSA and has set Illinois apart from others with his work in putting us on the social media landscape."
Brian Virgona, publisher of Coach and Athletic Director, added: “Our inaugural Sports 40 Under 40 Class of 2018 represents the next generation of industry leaders who will significantly evolve the industry in their respective sports and areas. Their impressive accomplishments to date are reflective of their natural leadership, motivation and desire to make a difference in the lives of young athletes.”
A complete list of the honorees can be found at the Coach & A.D. website.