In the world of South Dakota high school sports, consistency and excellence go hand in hand—and few embody that better than Sherri Johnson. For the second time in four years, the Estelline-Hendricks gymnastics coach has been named the South Dakota High School Coaches Association (SDHSCA) Gymnastics Coach of the Year, part of the 2026 Winter Coaches of the Year honors.
Johnson joins four other standout coaches recognized for their leadership during the winter season. All will be celebrated at the SDHSCA awards banquet on July 9, 2026, at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center—a fitting stage for coaches who have built championship-caliber programs.
Johnson’s Redhawks soared to new heights this February, capturing their fourth consecutive state Class A championship with a team score of 140.5334. They outpaced runner-up Parkston-Ethan-Hanson-Mount Vernon (137.8168) in a performance that showcased depth and precision. On the individual side, Estelline-Hendricks shined even brighter: Maggie Hausman swept the floor exercise, uneven bars, and all-around titles, while teammate Riah Hartung claimed the balance beam crown and finished third in the all-around. Jaylee Berwald also cracked the top 10 in the all-around, rounding out a dominant team effort.
This marks Johnson’s second Coach of the Year honor from the SDHSCA, having previously won in 2023—a testament to her sustained impact on the program.
Beyond the gym, the winter coaching awards spotlight other remarkable seasons. In boys' basketball, Huron’s Buddenhagen guided the Tigers to a 20-4 record and a state Class AA championship, culminating in a decisive 59-37 victory over previously unbeaten and top-ranked Sioux Falls Lincoln in March.
On the girls' side, Mahpiya Luta’s Rama led her team to a stellar 23-1 season, finishing as state Class A runners-up for the second straight year after a 65-51 loss to Lennox in the championship game.
Wrestling also saw dynastic coaching. The Scoopers continued their reign under Martin, capturing the state Class AA dual and individual tournament team championships for the third consecutive year. Sturgis capped an undefeated 21-0 dual season with a commanding 58-7 win over Aberdeen Central in the state dual tournament, then followed up with 219.5 points at the individual championships—outpacing Brandon Valley (174.5 points). The Scoopers crowned one individual champion and placed 12 other wrestlers, proving depth is the backbone of a dynasty.
From the balance beam to the wrestling mat, these coaches are crafting legacies that inspire athletes to push harder, aim higher, and achieve greatness—one season at a time.