March 29, 2024
Girls Volleyball

Jacobs hires volleyball, girls track and field and competitive dance coaches

Jacobs has hired coaches in volleyball, girls track and field and competitive dance, Jacobs athletic director Joe Benoit announced Monday.

Colleen Smith, a former assistant coach under Cary-Grove's Patty Langanis, takes over for Lisa Dwyer, who had been the varsity volleyball coach for the past 14 years. Smith won a Class 4A state championship as a player at C-G in 2009 and went on to play at DePaul.

“We’re grateful to have Coach Smith lead our volleyball program," Benoit said. "Her energy, passion for the sport of volleyball, and commitment to teaching the game will help our program be successful going forward. She’s eager to get started this fall."

Brian Zimmerman replaces Lydia Lang, who had been the girls track and field coach for the previous three years. Zimmerman, who is also an assistant varsity football coach, took over for Lang this spring. Zimmerman previously was as an assistant girls track and field coach at Jacobs.

“We’re excited to have a multisport coach lead our girls track program," Benoit said. "Coach Zimmerman has a solid plan in place to increase participation and push our girls to perform consistently at their personal bests. We look forward to seeing the program grow under his leadership."

Allison Heckman takes over for Cristy Felten as competitive dance coach. Felten coached Jacobs for the past two seasons. Heckman was previously the varsity dance coach at Crystal Lake Central, leading the program to four Fox Valley Conference championships and a sectional title in six seasons. Heckman danced at Miami (Ohio).

“Coach Heckman will be a huge asset to our coaching staff," Benoit said. "She is ready to hit the ground running and her prior experience and success makes her a great addition to our program. Most importantly, Coach Heckman is committed to developing successful student-athletes who are well-rounded contributors to our entire school community.

"We could not be more excited to welcome her to our Jacobs family."