Naperville North’s Kelly Reif named water polo coach of year
The Illinois High School Association has named Kelly Reif, Naperville North High School’s boys water polo coach, as its Boys Water Polo Coach of the Year.
Reif started at Naperville North in 2021 and has led the team to three state competitions, finishing the 2024 season with a 31-5 record and third place at the IHSA state tournament, according to a news release from Naperville School District 203..
Under her leadership, the team’s record is 83-18. The varsity team has earned Academic All-Conference honors for three consecutive years, and Reif has coached two All-American athletes, the release said.
Reif was previously recognized as the Sectional Coach of the Year in 2022 and 2023. Outside of Naperville North, she has been a coach for the USA Water Polo Midwest Zone Olympic Development Program, co-founded the West Suburban Water Polo Club and served as president of the Midwest Elite League Water Polo.
“Coach Reif has brought tremendous success and integrity to our water polo program,” Naperville North Athletic Director Jon Pereiro said in a statement. “Her commitment to developing her players both athletically and academically is second to none. This recognition is well deserved, and we are proud to have her leading our program.”
Reif was a four-time all-state athlete at Waubonsie Valley High School and earned several honors during her collegiate career at Indiana University.
Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise seeking grant proposals
Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise is accepting grant applications through 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, to help fund programs that support Naperville’s youth, families, teens and young adults.
The club is selecting its 2025 funding recipients, organizers said in a news release. Applications can be found and filed at www.napervillesunrise.com.
Grant requests will be reviewed on several criteria, including the potential for the organization or project to improve the quality of life for children, teens and young adults aligned with the club’s mission.
Recipients will be announced in early 2025 with funds dispersed between January and May. Money raised from the 2025 Rotary Ride will be distributed by Sept. 30, the release said.
All selected beneficiaries are required to report back to the club on the results of the funding, the organization said.