We are excited to welcome back Boone Native, Rusty Hicks, as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Boone High School. Coach Hicks will return to his alma mater in the hopes of guiding our Boys Basketball Program to further development and success. Rusty is a 1997 graduate of Boone High School. He attended school and played basketball at DMACC for two years, and received his Associate’s Degree in 1999. Rusty then attended Iowa State University, completing his Bachelor’s Degree in 2003. His areas of study included Exercise Sports Science and K-12 Physical Education. Coach Hicks is currently the 3-5 PE Teacher at East Elementary School in the Ballard Community School District.
Coach Hicks brings 15 years of basketball coaching experience at the high school level. Most recently, he has served as Head Junior Varsity/Assistant Varsity Coach for 11 years at Ballard High School. His Junior Varsity teams have amassed a total record of 161-24 during his tenure, and he was instrumental in helping the Varsity team achieve two conference championships, four substate appearances, and two state tournament appearances. He was heavily involved in gameplanning, off-season programming, and building a “hoop school” curriculum while involved with the program.
A committee including returning letter winners, BHS coaches, parents and administrators felt that Coach Hicks would be a great fit to lead our basketball program into the future. He brings with him the experience of 3A competition, and a familiarity with the Raccoon River Conference. He possesses a strong knowledge-base and passion for the game of basketball. Coach Hicks will provide steady leadership and support for our student-athletes. His willingness to partner with students, administration, district coaches and our newly formed Boone Youth Basketball Club will be a great asset. There is also the added appeal of having one of “Boone’s own” return to give back to our program in a meaningful way.
We welcome Rusty and his family back to the Toreador Family!
Brett A. Collins, BHS Activities Director
