Article by Phoenix writer Cristina Palmieri ’25:
Kellenberg Memorials’ very own Mr. Kenneth Conrade has been inducted into the CHSAA Coaching Hall of Fame.
Mr. Conrade has been coaching the Girls Varsity Softball team for 32 years, and has been head coach for 30. He has since then brought the softball program at Kellenberg to a new level. In 2001, under the leadership of Mr. Conrade, the team won their first championship. This was their first of eight championship titles, five of those being league and three state. The 2012 team had an undefeated season. Not only were they the best team in the state, but in the top fifty in the whole country. “The players weren’t just good, but fun, lovable, and had this winning attitude despite the pressure they faced. I have seen that winning culture continued throughout the years here,” Mr. Conrade recalled.
Aside from the amazing triumphs Conrade has led his team to, he notes that the program is not just about all of the wins and losses. “You can have a great season without winning the championship. If I see that my players have grown as both athletes and individuals, I know we had a successful season. To coach is a privilege. Players give time and soul into this sport, and it is my job to do the same,” he noted. All team sports, especially those at Kellenberg, are more than a game. They are an opportunity to build both relationships and individuals.
Mr. Conrade has not only contributed to Kellenberg’s program but to programs throughout the state. His goal of playing and respecting the sport of softball has most definitely been reached. When asked how he thinks he was chosen for this honor, Mr. Conrade answered, “I have received this honor for my contributions to Kellenberg and its students, for my position as chairperson for the NSCHSGAA softball league, and my position in the NFCA High School Steering Committee.”
Kellenberg is extremely proud to have a coach whose dedication and leadership shapes successful athletes and creates a winning culture.