Willowbrook tennis coach named IHSTCA 2A Girls Tennis Regional Coach of the Year

Willowbrook teacher and Girls Tennis Team Head Coach Eddie De La Cruz (pictured above) has been named as the Illinois High School Tennis Coaches Association (IHSTCA) 2A Girls Tennis Regional Coach of the Year.

De La Cruz has coached the Lady Warriors for four years and has been head coach of the Boys Tennis Team for 14 years.

“When I took over the program, many players were at the beginner level,” De La Cruz said. “We have coached from the ground up and have truly built a tennis program where athletes are now playing at the collegiate level. It just shows our growth.”

Willowbrook Athletic Director Brandon Murphy said De La Cruz was a major advocate and contributor to the renovation of Willowbrook’s tennis courts, which has allowed the school to host several new tournaments.

While the program has continued to have success through the years, De La Cruz said he’s most proud of the relationships he has cultivated. He stays in touch with many former athletes, works to create special experiences and memories for current players and helped develop tennis classes for adults in the community.

“De La Cruz does a fantastic job supporting his athletes both in and out of the tennis seasons,” Murphy said. “His passion for tennis is contagious. Willowbrook is one of the most diverse high schools in Illinois, and De La Cruz is a master at creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all of his athletes. Since joining the Willowbrook community, he has continuously increased the number of athletes in our girls and boys tennis programs.”