RONDA, N.C. - When Aaron Simmons took over the tennis program at his alma mater, he wanted to bring the joy of the game to students at East Wilkes High School. Never did he think that he would lead the women's program to the 2008 state championship and a women's doubles individual championship.
- Simmons has been nominated for the U.S. Cellular Most Valuable Coach award
- If he wins the school would receive $50,000 and a Samsung tech prize package valued at $30,000
- The public can vote through Oct. 8, 15 finalists will be named Oct. 11, and winning coaches will be announced Nov. 20
On top of many conference championships, Simmons still wants the ultimate goal to be the joy of the game that he once felt at the high school. Now, Simmons may add U.S. Cellular Most Valuable Coach award to his resume. Nominated by the athletic director, Simmons is among 50 nationwide nominees up for the award. If he wins the school would receive $50,000 and a Samsung tech prize package valued at $30,000. If he were to finish second or third, the school would receive $20,000 and $10,000 respectively.
The public can vote through Oct. 8. The 15 finalists will be named Oct. 11. U.S. Cellular will donate $5,000 to the finalists and celebrate with them at a local event. The winning coaches will be announced on Nov. 20. The public can vote here.