Hoffman Estates High School held its inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame ceremony on October 10. This modern celebration has served to bridge the gap between Alumni and current students in an electrifying manner, uniting Hoffman Hawks of all graduating classes across all sports.
Students, staff members, administrators, and alumni had the opportunity to connect with one another and engage in conversations about the past and present successes at HEHS.
“This event shows unity,” said Superintendent Dr. Campbell. “It truly shows that Hoffman is unified and is here to celebrate all the amazing things that have taken place over the many years in which it has been in existence.”
Ever since Hoffman Estates High School’s founding in 1973, it has been home to countless athletic teams, resulting in not just numerous wins but a multitude of bonds between teammates, coaches, and players.
Pierre Linebach, a standout on the HEHS track team, captured two state championships in 1997. Yet, that is only a part of the story. The real meaning for Leinbach were the relationships he formed along the way.
“So many people have helped me through my journey,” said Leinbach. “From my freshman year, I can think of Brad Stevens. I didn’t even want to continue with track; I wanted to quit, but he brought me in, and that changed my life.”
When discussing his accomplishments, Leinbach took a humble approach. “Talent doesn’t get you the whole way. You need other people around you,” he said.
The point of this event was not just to highlight the triumph of the alumni, but also to honor the coaches who mentored athletes on how to jump over the hurdles of life.
The Athletic Hall of Fame has been established as a great opportunity to recognize some of the past and current students’ achievements, said Principal Michael Alther.
The ceremony included countless successful Hoffman alumni including Natalie Cortese, bowling superstar. Cortese won the Denny’s All-American High School Championship in 2008. While Natalie Cortese was extremely successful on paper, the real reward was playing with her phenomenal teammates.
“The place erupted in cheers. Our senior captain, Joe Kirbyian, was electrifying, you could feel his energy. It was one of the best moments we’ve ever experienced, probably one of the best of our entire athletic careers. It was just incredible,” said Cortese.
Having an inspiring legacy like Natalie Cortese’s is exactly what makes the Athletic Hall of Fame so impactful. When we celebrate achievements like hers, students are able to see what they’re truly capable of within themselves. It creates a quiet connection between alumni and current students: a reminder that the same halls, fields, and dreams can lead to remarkable places.
“Seeing the Hall of Fame inductees inspires me to really leave a lasting impact on my school after I graduate, and it inspires me to make sure that I do something memorable,” said Nina Oliver, senior.
Kuba Scigalsi contributed to this report.
