2023 Coach of the Year Finalists

Josh Roach

Roach’s first season at the helm of the Indians’ baseball program was one for the record books. The Indians set a school record for wins in a season (34) and reached their first final four. The Indians claimed third-place in the Class 6 State Championships and finished the season with a record of 34-7. Roach will look to replicate the success his team had in 2023 as they prepare for 2024 and beyond.

Gregg Hollifield

The longtime Bulldogs boys’ basketball coach did a masterful job this past season with a young and inexperienced team. Sikeston upset No. 1 Cape Central en route to a district championship and a state quarterfinal berth.

Kory Thoma

Thoma’s first season saw tons of success for the Indians’ boys basketball program. Thoma’s team reached their first final four since 1937 with a 21-11 season. The Indians got to the final four by beating Kirkwood 39-37 in the Class 6 District 1 Title game and then by beating Eureka 40-36 in the state quarterfinals.

Justin Hutchings

Hutchings led the Bluejays football team to an 8-3 record after finishing 1-9 the previous season. He also led the Charleston boys’ track team to a Class 2 State Championship.

Kent Gibbs

Gibbs’ Tigers had a historic turnaround after a 2-7 season in 2021. The Tigers finished 2023 10-4 and came within one game of making the Class 5 State Championship game. After beginning 2023 2-3 Gibbs’ team reeled off eight-straight wins to reach the Class 5 State Semifinal game.