Last spring, Westside was awarded their fifth Omaha World-Herald All Sports trophy, for class A athletics. This trophy is awarded to one school in the state of Nebraska every year and demonstrates proficiency in both athletics and non athletic activities. In addition to their athletic recognition, Westside won the NSAA cup for all activities. Westside High School athletic director Tom Kerkman was more than delighted to be a part of this win for his school. Kerkman credits a large majority of Westside’s success to the school board and their support, in all endeavors, throughout the school year.
“It really isn’t anything I do,” Kerkman said. “It all starts with the support of our board, district leadership and our high school admin team—they support our athletic and activity programs. I’m just glad to be a small part of the success of our athletes and coaches. I am very fortunate to watch and cheer on our teams who work extremely hard and put a great deal of time into their sport.”
Throughout the school year, teams are awarded points based on their finishes in athletics. In the 2024-2025 school year, Westside competed in eight state championships. The Warriors were state runner ups in football, boys basketball, and girls basketball. On top of that, Westside won a boys soccer state championship, after a close entrance into the tournament.
“We had some great teams, athletes, coaches and great support from our parents and administration,” Kerkman said.
Westside finished with a total of 174 points, which is the most since Lincoln Southeast’s 195.5 in the 2000-2001 school year. Points are awarded to schools that are either in the Omaha World Herald’s top 10 ranking or state championship meet placing.
“We played at a high level in all sports,” Kerkman said. “Played great when the pressure was on. They were great competitors but even more than that, they were great leaders, even in defeat they showed great character and class. That’s a sign of great coaches and parental support all year”
Westside has no intention of slowing down. In the past 3 years, several major improvements have been made to our athletic facilities. Tennis courts have been resurfaced. The field has been returned. Most importantly, the school underwent a 34 million dollar addition to the school which will include a new practice gym, natatorium, and many amenities. Westside Superintendent Mike Lucas emphasized the importance of the strong community that the school district has built, leading them to this point.
Kerkman told the Omaha World-Herald, “I can’t stress enough that the District 66 community, school board, district leadership, especially Mike Lucas and our admin team led by principal Jay Dostal, are very supportive of our activity and athletic programs. That cannot go unnoticed.”
In addition to these major additions to the school, Westside has made several new additions to their athletic coaching staff. Kim Miksich will coach the boys tennis team, while Betsy Kingston will lead the girls team. Westside social studies teacher Jon Preister will take over the boys and girls cross country team after coach Gosnell’s retirement last season. Additionally, the Warrior baseball squad will be led by Jason Shockey this season. Finally, both the boys and girls bowling teams will be led by Troy Whitmarsh and Keith Schneider.
“Our WHS community is second to none, they allow our coaches to coach and players to play. It’s a great community” Kerkman said
