Jesse Nelson Becomes 2nd Kan. H.S. Coach To Win 700

Jesse Nelson isn’t one to tout milestones and accolades.

But after Tuesday’s 69-11 romp of Lebo, the long-time Olpe coach can’t avoid them.

The victory was No. 700 for Nelson, making him just the second coach in state history to reach that hallowed number. Only John Locke, of Natoma, has won more (731), and no girls coach in state history has come close.

“Obviously, it’s a longevity mark,” Nelson said. “I guess the unique thing about it is that all of those wins have come at the same place, but I really don’t worry about stuff like that too much.”

In addition to his varsity coaching mark, Nelson also reached another significant number last week. Olpe’s 74-23 rout of Marais des Cygnes Valley gave Nelson his 1,000th win combined win of varsity and junior high victories.

“I think the big thing is that I’ve had the right kind of kids that just match me and buy into what we’re trying to do,” Nelson said. “I’ve been fortunate. I’ve had only three assistants in my career and each has given me different things. And I’ve had great parents during my time here, and my family has been tremendous through it all. It’s just been the right fit.”

Olpe captured the Class 2A state title last year, giving the program its first state title since 1981. This season, the Eagles are ranked No. 1 in Class 1A Division I and are the only undefeated team in that division.

The success is hardly new. Though last year’s state title was just the second for the Eagles, they have been a perennial small-school power.

Olpe’s win Friday against Lebo wrapped up its 43rd Lyon County League title (regular season and tournament combined) and the Eagles have averaged more than 21 wins per season under Nelson, who is in his 33rd year.

The schedule doesn’t get easy for last year’s Class 2A state champions, who are ranked No. 1 in Class 1A Division I. After next week’s Lyon County League Tournament, the Eagles have games with Class 4A St. James, Class 3A Osage City, Lyndon and Sedgwick, as well as Wichita Word of Life.