When I heard about the passing of Coach Michael Hicks, it felt strange inside. Even though I never met him, I grew up around coaches in my school and saw how much they can impact kids. Reading about him reminded me of the mentors I had in sports.
Coach Michael Hicks, often called Mike, passed away at 63. He dedicated over thirty years to teaching basketball, mostly in Ottawa, Illinois. He was a vital figure for many young players there.
Before coaching, Mike held various small jobs, including a newspaper delivery job. I smiled when I read that because I did a small job in my town to save some pocket money. It felt relatable.
Mike began coaching with the YMCA Youth Basketball Program. He then coached at places like Wallace, Midland, LaMoille, and Peru, Washington. No matter where he went, he aimed to help young players learn the game.
Later, he became the athletic director at St. Anne’s, which allowed him to continue his work at St. Mary’s and St. Viator. This shows how much trust people had in him.
After more than thirty years of coaching, Mike retired in 2023. Even then, he stayed involved in basketball by coaching the freshman team at Marquette High School to support his great-nephew. That reminded me of how my uncle helped me in school cricket tournaments. Family support feels special.
Ottawa, Illinois, felt deep sadness when Coach Mike passed away on November 28, 2025. He was known not just as a coach, but also as a family man. He cared for his mother and assisted her with daily needs.
His nieces and nephews affectionately called him Uncle Santa because he always brought them gifts. This shows the warm and funny side of him that kids remember fondly.
Mike is survived by his mother and siblings, Steve, Kathy, and Laurie. He leaves behind nieces and nephews named Erica, Michelle, Lacey, Brandi, Stephanie, Lauren, and Abby. Losing someone like him creates a significant gap in any family.
After his passing, the Marquette Academy High School Go Club posted a prayer message for his family. Many people shared their feelings and support. One person wrote a touching message about how he was the most lively and focused coach. They also mentioned that their son learned lessons from him, not just in basketball but in life.
When I read that comment, it reminded me of my sports teacher who yelled during matches but later offered the best advice. Coaches like that stay in your memory for a long time.
People in Ottawa, Illinois, feel a piece of their community spirit is gone. His guidance, kindness, and straightforward teaching style will remain in the memories of those who knew him.
The family has not shared funeral details yet as they are still dealing with the loss.
May Coach Mike rest in peace. My thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who loved him. You may also be interested in: The basketball life of Joshua Joseph Schlicht and how his world circled around family and the game he loved
