Bob Nihells enters his 31st year at Lake Park. For the 1st 20 seasons he served as the head track and field coach. At that time he transformed a one dimensional program into a perennial state power. He was the head coach when the Lancers won their first State Championship in 1997. His passion, thirst for knowledge and commitment to the kids has made the throws event group one of the most successful in the country. During his incredible career he has coached every event area. A few of his athletes have the most incredible distinction of being the ALL TIME IHSA record holders in the Indoor Shot Put (Jeremy Kline), Outdoor Shot Put (Jermaine Kline), Discus (Danny Block), and the 200 Meter Dash (Anthony Moorman)! Coach Nihells was honored as the IHSA 3A Coach of the Year in 1997 and most recently as the Gill Athletics National Coach of the year in 2011!
Personal
Coach Nihells retired last year from teaching Math at the West Campus. When he is not coaching, he enjoys playing with his grandson. Coach Nihells is married with 6 children and lives in Hampshire.
