Former Willowbrook coach to be inducted into IABC Class of 2023 Hall of Fame

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On May 11, former Willowbrook Girls Badminton Coach Al Loew will be inducted into the Illinois Association of Badminton Coaches (IABC) Class of 2023 Hall of Fame.

Loew coached at Willowbrook from 1980 to 2004. Highlights of his Girls Badminton career include growing the program from 15 to 42 players, winning state in 1997 (and finishing as co-champions in 1998) and winning Conference four times.

“Loew started Girls Badminton at Willowbrook and is a pioneer of the sport in Illinois,” said Eastman Tiu, current Head Coach of the Willowbrook Girls Badminton Team, who nominated Loew for the Hall of Fame. “He established a successful and winning program that carries on today.”

IABC Class of 2023 Hall of Fame inductees will be recognized during a ceremony on May 11 at DeKalb High School. On May 12, Loew will serve as a Grand Marshall for the parade during the opening ceremony of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Girls Badminton State Tournament at DeKalb High School.

Tiu added that Loew inspired his athletes, and many of them have followed in his path and are coaching or serving as athletic directors.

“Loew set a tone and expectation of excellence,” Tiu said. “He is a Warrior in every sense of the word and truly deserves this honor.”