The Hastings Public Schools Foundation, the Adams Central Schools Foundation, and the Hastings Catholic Schools Foundation are proud to announce Coach Rod Hartman of Adams Central as the 2025 recipient of the Dale and Brad Feeken Memorial Coaching Award.
This award honors the legacy of Dale and Brad Feeken—beloved educators and coaches—by recognizing an area coach who demonstrates excellence in leadership, character, and dedication to youth.
Coach Hartman began his coaching career in 1999 and has spent over two decades mentoring and inspiring student-athletes at Adams Central and beyond. He has served in multiple roles, beginning with Legion Baseball and Girls Tennis at STC, before joining the Adams Central coaching staff. At Adams Central, Hartman coached Girls Tennis for 10 years and Boys Tennis for over 11 years, guiding numerous state medalists and leading the boys team to a Class B State Championship in 2010.
Currently, he is the head coach of both the Adams Central Girls and Boys Golf Teams.
Under his leadership, both programs have thrived. The girls and boys program has produced multiple state medalists, while the boys team earned state runner-up honors in 2019, continuing to compete at a high level year after year.
Nominators highlighted Coach Hartman’s unwavering commitment to his players:
“Coach Hartman is consistent in his discipline and actions, setting high expectations that student-athletes strive to exceed.”
“He has a unique ability to make every player feel seen—whether they’re a state contender or just starting out.”
“His players look up to him not only because of his knowledge of the game, but because he lives out the values he teaches—no excuses, high standards, and humility.”
Over the past 25 years, Coach Hartman has built a legacy rooted in respect, effort, and growth—on and off the field. He is a role model to students and a pillar in the Adams Central athletic community.
Nominees for the Dale and Brad Feeken Memorial Coaching Award must be current coaches of NSAA-sanctioned sports at Hastings High, St. Cecilia High School, or Adams Central. Nominations were accepted from staff within the three school systems.
The recipient of this award exemplifies the life-changing impact of great coaching—carrying forward the Feekens’ commitment to mentorship, service, and the development of student-athletes who succeed not just in sports, but in life
