Principal Jeremy Chilek received an award Tuesday to recognize him for overcoming cancer. Boys basketball coach Cedena Clark presented him the award before the boys basketball game. 

“It was important that we recognize and honor Mr. Chilek and just for all of us to know that it’s not a reason to give up,” Assistant Principal Kyle Wright said. “There are positive outcomes even if you get a cancer diagnosis.” 

Clark decided to bring Coaches vs. Cancer (CvC) to the high school level and took this season as an opportunity to honor Chilek. CvC is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).

“I think this award was important on many fronts,” Wright said. “Coach Clark is involved with a lot of coaches with cancer and it’s a sort of tradition he does.”

Chilek had been told that Clark would be doing a CvC presentation, but was later surprised at the basketball game when his name was called. 

“It was a shock and I didn’t expect it, thinking I was gonna be there to help Coach Clark,” Chilek said. “It makes you feel good that people care about you and think highly of you.”

Earlier this year Chilek was given a cancer diagnosis. He had surgery to remove a kidney tumor, and currently  remains cancer free. 

“I thought it was great to present Mr.Chilek with the award of being able to beat cancer,” Clark said.