Outgoing Pella Head Football Coach Jay McKinstrey was honored Thursday at the Iowa High School Athletic Association’s state basketball tournament as the IHSAA Character Counts! Coach of the Year.

The honor is awarded to those who embody the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship.

“Coach McKinstrey’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and commitment to our students go far beyond the game,” a release by the Pella Community School District stated. “He not only builds strong athletes but also shapes incredible young people. We are so grateful for his guidance, passion, and the positive impact he makes every single day.”

McKinstrey had an opportunity few coaches have ever had on Iowa’s high school sidelines — a chance to compete for a state championship in the UNI Dome in his final game. Jay finished with 237 career wins with a 76% career victory percentage and 22 playoff appearances.