Central's Top Athletic Official Carries 'Tradition Of Excellence': Principal

HINSDALE, IL – Hinsdale Central High School's athletic program has received one of the nation’s top honors in interscholastic athletics, the school announced Tuesday.

The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association has recognized Hinsdale Central's athletic program with its 2026 Quality Program Recognition at the "exemplary" level, the highest distinction awarded through the organization's "Quality Program Assessment."

Central's principal, Bill Walsh, took the opportunity to praise the athletic director, Mike Jezioro.

"Hinsdale Central's Athletic Department has a long tradition of leaders who are passionate about high school athletics," Walsh said in a statement. "Mike Jezioro has carried on that tradition of excellence, and this recognition by the NIAAA reflects the strength of our program and its commitment to student-athletes."

To earn Exemplary Level recognition, athletic administrators must complete the association's Leadership Training Course 799 and provide evidence showing their program meets recommended criteria across 10 quality assessment categories.

According to the school, evaluations focus on established policies and procedures, program achievements, and a program's commitment to best practices in athletic administration.

Jezioro said the award belongs to the people who support the program every day.

"This recognition is a tremendous honor and reflects the commitment of our coaches, student-athletes, administrators, families, and community," he said in a statement. "I'm proud to accept this award on behalf of everyone who works each day to uphold the tradition of excellence that defines Hinsdale Central Athletics."

The athletic program will be featured in Interscholastic Athletic Administrator magazine, the school said.