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St. Rita High School Names John Nee Head Baseball Coach Starting In 2018

By Howard Ludwig | August 26, 2016 8:30am
 Associate baseball coach John Nee will become St. Rita High School's head coach in 2018. He supplants Mike Zunica, who will complete is 21st and final season at the helm of the baseball program in 2017.
Associate baseball coach John Nee will become St. Rita High School's head coach in 2018. He supplants Mike Zunica, who will complete is 21st and final season at the helm of the baseball program in 2017.
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ASHBURN — Associate baseball coach John Nee will become St. Rita High School's head coach in 2018.

Nee graduated from the school at 7740 S. Western Ave. in Ashburn in 1993. He has been the associate coach for the last eight seasons.

“I am unbelievably humbled by and thankful for this great opportunity to continue the tradition that is St. Rita baseball. Working under Mike Zunica over the past 19 years has been a tremendous experience," Nee said.

Zunica will complete his 21st and final season at the helm of the program in 2017. He will retain the responsibilities of president, athletic director and chief advancement officer.

“I know John is the best man to lead the Mustang baseball program in the next era. His skill set is unique because he combines an amazing baseball knowledge with an exceptional ability to motivate his players," he said.

Zunica retires as the winningest baseball coach in St. Rita history with more than 600 wins, including three summer state titles and three state champion runner-up finishes.

Meanwhile, Nee was a three-year member of the varsity Mustangs baseball team. As a player, he helped lead St. Rita to a 1991 regional championship, a 1993 No. 1 state-ranking and a 1993 Catholic League championship.

After St. Rita, Nee attended the University of St. Francis in Joliet to play baseball and football. He honed his baseball skills at the collegiate level under coach Gordie Gillespie. Nee also serves as an assistant varsity football coach and as an English teacher.

Nee "understands the St. Rita philosophy. He’s always prepared when he comes to the diamond. I am happy to pass the torch to John and look forward to seeing him succeed as the 13th head coach in St. Rita history,” Zunica said.

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