FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2026
Louisville, IL — The National Athletic Hall of Fame Selection Committee is proud to announce Coach Bob Horst, former Newton High School head football and track and field coach, as a 2026 inductee in the Coaching Division.
Over a distinguished 37-year coaching career, Horst made coaching stops at Mt. Vernon High School, Flora High School, and ultimately Newton High School, where he built one of the most successful athletic programs in the school’s history.
During his 23 seasons leading the Newton Eagles football program, Horst guided his teams to 18 IHSA playoff appearances while compiling an impressive 27-18 postseason record. His 2005 squad completed an undefeated regular season, captured the Apollo Conference championship, and advanced to the IHSA Class 4A State Championship game, finishing as state runner-up. Horst concluded his football coaching career with an outstanding overall record of 166-79.
Horst’s success extended beyond the football field. In 2006, he led the Newton Eagles boys track and field team to the school’s first-ever IHSA Class A Boys Track and Field State Championship, cementing his legacy as one of the area’s premier coaches.
His outstanding contributions to Illinois high school athletics have earned numerous honors throughout his career. Horst was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame in 2001 and received the prestigious Heritage Circle Award in 2024.
The National Athletic Hall of Fame will formally recognize Horst during the 2026 Induction Ceremony on Friday, November 13, 2026, at the Teutopolis Banquet Hall in Teutopolis, Illinois.
Horst joins an accomplished class of inductees whose dedication, leadership, and commitment have left a lasting impact on high school athletics throughout Illinois.
