Announcing the Iowa High School Coaches Hall of Fame Class of 2026

We are honored to announce the induction of four new members into the IAHSSCA Coaches Hall of Fame! 

This year’s class represents a rare blend of tactical mastery and extraordinary longevity, honoring leaders who have dedicated decades to the sidelines, the classrooms, and the development of Iowa’s youth.

With a combined 80+ years of service to Iowa soccer, these honorees have stood the test of time. This class is unique in its breadth, featuring not only legendary head coaches but also a dedicated official and administrator who has guarded the game’s integrity from every angle. From record-breaking win totals and transformative graduation rates to national-level officiating and state-wide leadership, these four individuals embody the enduring spirit of Iowa high school athletics.

JP Graham | Cedar Rapids Washington

The Standard of Excellence in the MVC

Coach JP Graham’s 25-year tenure at Cedar Rapids Washington is defined by consistent, high-level success. With an impressive 270-164-4 record, Graham led the Warriors to 11 State Tournament appearances, reaching the semifinals or better six times. His ability to develop elite talent is unmatched, having coached two All-Americans and two State Players of the Year.

• Career Highlights: 6 MVC Championships, 6-time MVC Coach of the Year.

• Player Development: Mentored 33 All-State selections and 2 NSCAA/USC All-Americans (Austin Bergstrom and Keaton Woods).

• Academic Prowess: Proudly has overseen 42 Academic All-State players, proving his commitment to the "student" in student-athlete.

Derek Lounsberry | Des Moines East

Building a Legacy Beyond the Pitch

While Coach Lounsberry’s 180 wins and 13 upsets of top-3 ranked teams speak to his tactical skill, his true legacy at Des Moines East is measured in the decades of stability he provided. For 27 seasons, Lounsberry used soccer as a vehicle for social mobility, missing only one state title game in 26 years—to watch his own son, Jay, graduate from high school.

• Impact by the Numbers: Of the 486 seniors who graduated under his watch, 40% were the first in their families to graduate.

• The 97% Rule: Players who committed to the program for 2 or more years saw an amazing 97% graduation rate.

• Service to the Sport: A fixture of the Iowa soccer community, he served as the Selection Committee Chair for the All-Tournament team for 27 years.

Jeff Lefeber | Tri-Center

Small School Heart, Big Stage Success

In 18 seasons at Tri-Center, Jeff Lefeber has proven that elite success doesn't require a massive roster. Ranking 10th all-time in wins for Iowa girls' soccer coaches (192-83), Lefeber has built a powerhouse based on community. Tri-Center remains committed to competing with "their own kids," only entering a co-op once—not for their own benefit, but to ensure two girls from a neighboring conference school didn't lose their chance to play.

• The Dual-Sport Edge: At a small school like TC, "making it work" is the mantra. This year alone, 11 players are balancing soccer with track or golf, a testament to the culture of athletic versatility Lefeber fosters.

• Post-Season Success: Guided the Trojans to 8 Regional Finals and 3 State Tournament appearances.

• Top Honors: Named the 2017 1A State Coach of the Year and a three-time District Coach of the Year.

Hidajet Tica

The Multi-Faceted Guardian of the Game

Inducted for his immense contributions as both a coach and an official, Hidajet Tica has dedicated his life to the integrity of the sport. As the head coach at Southeast Polk from 2013 to 2022, Tica compiled an 80-82-3 record, providing steady leadership for the Rams. However, his influence extends far beyond the technical area and into the very fabric of how soccer is played and officiated in Iowa.

• Master of the Whistle: A longtime referee at the state, regional, and national levels, Tica has been a fixture in some of the the most high-stakes matches at all levels.

• Leadership & Governance: He served as a long-tenured Iowa referee assignor and continues to shape the future of the sport as the Referee & Sportsmanship Director with the Iowa Soccer Association.

• Legacy of Respect: His career is a testament to the vital "third team" on the field, ensuring that the game is played with fairness, passion, and respect at every level.