College of Lake County

Ina Koziol was a lifelong resident, coach and educator in Lake County. Growing up in Waukegan she enjoyed sports and physical activity, however athletics were not offered to female students at the time. She graduated from Holy Names High School in Waukegan in 1969. At Western Illinois University Ina was able to explore her passion for teaching both Physical Education and Art Education.  Upon graduation she moved to Green Oaks and was hired as a PE and Art Teacher at the new Stevenson High School in 1973. She was passionate about fostering the love of fitness and athletics for all students, but especially female athletes.  She coached and mentored these young women as Title IX expanded the availability of sports to female athletes.  Koziol was the school’s first girls basketball coach from 1973-1978 and accumulated 22 wins and 25 losses.  She also started the girls tennis program in 1973 and directed that until 1976.  Her longest tenure as a coach was for the Girls Bowling team, which she led from 1979-1995. Her former athletes and colleagues became her family throughout her tenure. Upon retirement Koziol continued to support Lake County volunteering at the local food pantry and at Lake Forest Hospital.

Stevenson High School lost a dear friend and loyal Patriot after a brave battle with cancer December 7, 2019.