Two years after LFHS alumnus Vince Vaughn starred in what’s widely considered his breakout movie, Swingers, he starred as Lester Long in Clay Pigeons. Vaughn took the name as a tribute to his former coach.
Vaughn is just one name on a long list of people Long has left a lasting impact on–that includes an array of personalities from Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka and former MLB pitcher Alan Benes to, most recently, All-State long jumper Jahari Scott.
“Coach Long creates a positive environment where we feel supported to not only be a better athlete but a better person,” said senior long jumper and track captain Connor Hiam.
Long’s lengthy coaching career follows an equally impressive athletic career of his own. His impressive 25 points per game average at North Chicago High School earned him a spot on McKendree University’s basketball team, as well as a deserved spot in the Lake County High School Sports Hall of Fame. His career at McKendree also got him a tryout letter from the former NBA team the Seattle Supersonics.
In 1985, Long made a move from coaching at his former high school to come and coach basketball and track at LFHS, his home for the past four decades.
Now Long coaches JV boys soccer, JV girls basketball, and boys long and triple jump. For over 40 years, Long has been much more than a coach, according to his players. He is a mature and positive presence that inspires students to be the best they can be.
Sophomore Ben Turner is one of Long’s current track athletes who says he has been impressed by Long’s coaching the past couple years.
“He’s always pushing me to be the best athlete I can be,” said Turner. “He critiques me and tells me what I can do better, but he also always makes sure to celebrate my wins.”
Long blends his extensive athletic background with his affable personality to make connections with students that go beyond the field, court, and sand pit while helping them perform the best they can.
“I’m just honest,” Long said. “I try to be honest and tell them information on jumping and just facts of life, and to let them know that I’m here for them. What makes me happy is when I see that they’re improving and understanding the information I’m giving them.”
A gentle soul with a booming laugh, Long takes a much more patient and personal approach than most coaches have time for, especially at the high school level.
“I stay as long as they want to stay at practice. I don’t rush them; I make sure they know everything they want to know to get better, and I’m here for them,” said Long.
Long has a special talent of making his athletes feel seen and appreciated–an important feeling that goes far beyond athletic performance.
“He pays attention to all the small details and gives specific advice on what you need to improve on. His positive attitude and motivation towards athletes helps us build confidence,” said Hiam.
