SEATTLE — The head football coach at Seattle's O'Dea High School has already won four state championships. But Monte Kohler is about to receive his greatest honor. The viewers of KING 5 have voted him as the top high school coach in the Best of Western Washington awards.
Coach Kohler has been leading O'Dea teams to victory for 39 seasons. In fact, he's the winningest active coach in the state. But he's not the braggiest.
"It's all about the kids," Kohler said. "The kids and the other coaches make all of this possible."
This humble coach and athletic director guides his players on the field and off.
"Beyond the X's and O's and the win/loss record, what Monte cares about is the young people he coaches," said O'Dea Principal Jim Walker. "I think that comes through each and every day at every practice, and the kids know it."
Before each game, he shares a hug or handshake with every player.
"That's Monte, and it's part of what he does," Walker said. "Monte makes us all better. That's for sure."
"Great community, I feel blessed to be a part of it." Kohler said.
Congratulations to O'Dea Football's Monte Kohler, the Best High School Coach in Western Washington.
Kohler said, humbly, of course, "I am honored. Thank you so much."
KING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Email.