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ETHS honors state champions: gymnast Eric Van Leer and boys 4x400 relay team recognized
Summary
The Evanston Township High School Board opened its June 9 meeting by recognizing student athletes: gymnast Eric Van Leer, who won two individual state titles this year, and the boys 4x400 relay team, which won the IHSA state title after their head coach was injured.
Evanston Township High School honored student athletes at the start of its June 9 board meeting.
Athletic Director Chris Flavatino introduced gymnast Eric Van Leer, who won individual state championships this spring in both vault and floor exercise, bringing his career total to three state titles. ETHS head gymnastics coach Frank Erwin described Van Leer’s work ethic and role in rebuilding the program. “He’s been a tremendous asset to the program and we were thrilled to have him as a 2‑time state champion,” Erwin said. The board stood to congratulate Van Leer and presented him a commemorative pen.
The board also recognized the boys 4x400 relay team, which captured the IHSA state championship after a dramatic finish late in the race. The relay’s season included coaching upheaval when head coach Don Michelin suffered a training accident before the sectional meet; assistant coaches Kevin Cains and George Woolridge stepped in and helped the team to the state title, the board noted. Head coach and staff praised the athletes’ resilience and depth; two relay members are returning next season.
Board members described the recognitions as “a great way to start a meeting” and applauded the students and coaches for their accomplishments.
