Tony's Take: Former IHSA Admin Ron McGraw Passes Away

Like so many others in our industry, I was deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Ron McGraw. Not only was he a tremendous administrator, but he was very cordial whenever I saw him.

Being an administrator of any organization is a tremendous accomplishment. Still, I was especially fond of the way that McGraw went about the business of working in the capacity of assistant executive director of cross country and track & field. If you met him for the first time, you could have easily mistaken him for a golf pro or a lawyer. Yes, McGraw had that kind of effect on those that he encountered.

I was fortunate enough to have had McGraw on speed dial, and he always answered every question regarding the sport to the best of his ability. He always spoke on behalf of the advisory committee and the IHSA. "Tony, your questions and concerns will be answered by the terms and conditions set by the advisory committee." 

I remember hearing about his retirement at the 2015 boys' state track meet. I asked him why when he was still primed to do the job. "I want to spend more time with my grandkids," he said. It is hard to be disappointed in a man whose convictions were in the right place.

McGraw welcomed MileSplit IL with open arms, and I will never forget and appreciate that. On behalf of our team, I want to send condolences to Mr. McGraw's family.