The ETHS Boosters is an all-parent/guardian volunteer organization that encourages and promotes all extracurricular activities at ETHS. We are one of the few Booster Clubs in the Central Suburban League that supports all extracurriculars – music, fine arts and clubs, in addition to sports.
Each year, the Crystal ‘E’ Award solicits nominations from students and parents/guardians to recognize an ETHS staff member who runs an extracurricular activity and makes an extraordinary impact. Thank you to everyone who has nominated an extraordinary ETHS teacher, coach or staff member!
Coach Luciana Ruiz is 2023-2024 winner of the Crystal ‘E’ Award
The ETHS rowing club would not exist without Coach Ruiz’ dedication to equity and her passion for rowing. Coach Ruiz worked alongside community leaders to create the first equity-based, dues-free rowing program in the Midwest. This groundbreaking initiative has made rowing accessible to all students, regardless of their financial background, and has significantly broadened the opportunities available to them. Her tireless efforts have not only expanded the reach of the rowing program but also created a more inclusive environment where every student can thrive and succeed. Coach Ruiz’s impact extends far beyond the sport; she embodies the values of equity and community that are so central to our mission and embodies the essence of what the Crystal ‘E’ Award is all about.
“I don’t know if the coaches fully understand what they’ve given us. We are not just rowers and coxswains; we’ve become friends that say ‘hi’ in the hallways. We’ve become something that I don’t think I can put into words.”
“Our coaches’ expertise and seemingly unlimited energy made me want to come to practice every single day, even in the winter season.”
“Everyone on this team respects and cares for one another because everyone on this team works themselves to the bone for the best results they can achieve.”
Past Crystal ‘E’ Award Winners:
- 2023 Keith Holtzmuller
- 2022 Fenton Gunter
- 2021 Tom Fodor
- 2020 Gedeon Yitref
- 2019 Andrew Miner
- 2018 Matt Bufis
- 2017 Jennifer Weber
- 2016 Jeff Hannah
- 2015 Matt Moran
- 2014 Pam McPherson
- 2014 Kiril Mirintchev
- 2013 Tom Doan