Darren Howard Nationally Recognized As Athletic Director Of The Year

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego Community Unit School District 308's athletic director has been nationally recognized by a coaches association, officials announced Tuesday.

Darren Howard was named the 2023 National Athletic Director of the Year by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association. The organization, formed in 1965, aims to promote high school athletics, provide professional services to its members and open doors to opportunities for all high school coaches, according to a news release.

"I am very shocked, humbled, and honored to receive such an award," Howard said in a statement. "I try every day to provide our students the best opportunities available, so that each can be as successful as possible."

Howard, who "always had a love for sports" growing up," played basketball through college. Once he graduated in 1992, he became a high school basketball coach through 2012, becoming an athletic director in 2000.

Howard started working for District 308 in July 2012 and became the district's athletic director in 2016.

"SD 308 is so appreciative of all Mr. Howard does for our athletes, coaches, and staff every day," officials said in a news release. "Congratulations on this incredible honor."