Middletown High School Athletic Director Michael Pitruzzello is part of an elite group of 44 coaches chosen nationwide as finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association coach of the year.
On Wednesday, the finalists will gather at the NHSACA national awards banquet in Fargo, where each finalist will be recognized and National Coach of the Year announced.
Nominees coach sports including wrestling, volleyball, track and field, tennis, swimming, softball, soccer, golf, football, basketball, baseball.
NHSACA is dedicated to serving high school coaches and athletic directors throughout the United States through education, recognition and support. The goal is to promote high school athletics, provide professional services to member coaches while providing opportunities for all high school coaches.
The NHSACA provides resources to promote professional growth, an attitude of teamwork, sportsmanship and healthy lifestyles for athletes, coaches and athletic directors.
The organization recognize coaches not just for a season of coaching, but for lifetime achievements. The NHSACA Coach of the Year awards are the most prestigious awards given to high school coaches in America.
See other Coach of the Year finalists here.