Hillsborough High School renamed its main competition gymnasium in tribute to Ian Progin, a former student, school counselor, and successful basketball coach who passed away at the age of 47 after battling with brain cancer. This decision goes beyond recognizing Ian’s athletic achievements, it acknowledges Progin’s lasting impact on the entire community.
Jeffrey DiLollo, the principal of Hillsborough High school, explained that Progin’s legacy is rooted in his commitment to the school and town. Progin was a Hillsborough high school graduate, who lived locally, and raised a family here. According to DiLollo, Progin was an educator who believed that every person has significant value. “He worked to help students recognize that worth. Whether students were in his counseling office or on the court, Progin was an amazing listener, someone who you knew was invested in you.”
Progin’s influence reached every person in his life. His best friend, Michael Davis described him as intensely passionate, dedicated, and caring. Ian was not only a counselor, but “he was someone who consistently put others first.” Davis recalled how Progin “touched the community in so many different ways.” A powerful example of Progin’s dedicated coaching style was the 2015 boys’ basketball state championship team. Davis explained that the success of this particular group of athletes was a direct result of the commitment that Progin expected from his team rather than just talent. “He poured his heart and soul into the team, and their victory was a testament of the trust they put into each other,” Davis said.
By officially naming the gymnasium after him, Hillsborough is ensuring that the story of this devoted educator, mentor, and community anchor will be remembered for generations. DiLollo hopes that by tying his name to the gym, it will instill the core concepts of selflessness and commitment in all future Raiders who may not have known Ian personally.
