The MOC-Floyd Valley community has a major reason to celebrate this week. Our very own Mr. Doug De Zeeuw, a dedicated high school teacher and mainstay of the Cross Country and Track & Field programs, has been named the Character Counts Coach of the Year by the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).
This prestigious honor isn’t about the numbers on a scoreboard or the medals around an athlete’s neck. Instead, it recognizes coaches who embody the Six Pillars of Character:
- Trustworthiness
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Fairness
- Caring
- Citizenship
Beyond the Finish Line
Coach De Zeeuw, widely known as “Coach DZ,” joins an elite group of Iowa mentors, following recent winners like Mount Vernon’s Robin Brand and Pella’s Jay McKinstrey. The award highlights a philosophy that MOC-Floyd Valley students and athletes have seen in action for years: that sportsmanship and integrity are just as important as speed and endurance.
Whether he is pacing the sidelines at a track meet, guiding runners through a grueling cross-country course, or leading a classroom discussion, Coach DZ’s mission remains the same, building better people. His dedication ensures that his students graduate not just as better athletes, but as citizens of high character.
A Moment in the Spotlight
The state officially recognized Coach De Zeeuw’s impact on March 12, 2026. He was honored during a special ceremony at the State Basketball Tournament, where his commitment to the core values of the IHSAA was celebrated in front of fans from across Iowa.
Thank you for representing MOC-Floyd Valley with such heart and integrity!