Hickory Creek Middle School Coach Earns Coach of the Year

Frankfort School District 157-C is proud to announce that Lauren Doman, head coach of the Hickory Creek Middle School 8th Grade Girls Basketball Team, has been named the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) 2026 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach of the Year for Level 4A.

Coach Doman led her team to an outstanding season. Hickory Creek Middle School Athletic Director Josh Purpura praised Coach Doman’s leadership and impact on the program. “Coach Doman is an outstanding coach who guided her team to both a Regional and Sectional title before a hard-fought loss in the Elite Eight,” Purpura said. “Congratulations to Lauren on an incredible season and a well-deserved honor.”

When commenting on the achievement, Coach Doman emphasized the team’s shared commitment and growth.

“From day one, our goal was to make it to State, and this group made it happen,” Doman said. “Every step of the way, these girls committed to growth, teamwork, and pushing themselves beyond their limits. Their resilience, determination, and trust in each other—and in me—turned that goal into reality.”

In addition to this season’s success, Coach Doman holds an exceptional career coaching record of 36 wins and 9 losses. Beyond the basketball court, she serves as a special education teacher at Hickory Creek Middle School, where she is equally dedicated to supporting students’ academic and personal growth.

Sharing a final message to her athletes, Coach Doman expressed her pride in the team’s journey.

“Proud coach doesn’t even begin to cover it. Watching this team grow, compete, fight, and believe in themselves has been something special. Keep choosing the hard work. Keep choosing each other. Keep choosing to believe you’re capable of more—because you are.”

Frankfort School District 157‑C congratulates Coach Doman and the Hickory Creek 8th Grade Girls Basketball team on an exceptional season and this prestigious statewide recognition.