BILL MCGOVERN
The Arlington Heights Park District is honored to recognize Bill McGovern as one of the 2023 Legacy Wall inductees. Bill has truly been a pillar in the Arlington Heights soccer community and we attribute much of our soccer program success over the years to his leadership, dedication and influence.
He began his legacy as the District’s Soccer Referee Coordinator and Assigner and held that position for over 40 years. During that time, he mentored and trained hundreds of referees which resulted in the district’s soccer program growing into the well respected and successful program it is today. We can say that without a doubt, Bill left an impression on each and every referee that was apart of the soccer program. As many of you may know, being a mentor to 14-year-olds can have its challenges but Bill made it look easy.
In addition to his role as the Referee Coordinator and Assigner, he also served on the District’s Soccer Advisory Committee from 1983 until 1996. He decided 12 years later that his job wasn’t done yet and served again from 2008 until 2011.
Believe it or not, his involvement didn’t stop there. Bill coached house and travel soccer for 32 years for the District. His impact quickly expanded beyond referees and onto soccer players, volunteer coaches, peers, parents and more. He led clinics for parent volunteers to assist them in gaining knowledge on the game and rules as well as the importance of sportsmanship and treating the referees with respect.
It is true that the success of any team starts at the top and goes down. Bill effortlessly instilled into players, teams, referees, and parents the importance of having good sportsmanship, how to have a fun, fair and competitive game and how to work together effectively. He led by example which is also why not only players look up to him but parents/guardians can rely on him. Parents/guardians could not have better things to say about Bill’s teaching and commitment to each athlete.
Bill has exceeded expectations as a leader, coach and peer. Arlington Heights Park District is honored to have Bill be an integral part of our community and thank him for his many years of dedicated service.
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