Heide Trask High School naming stadium and track in honor of coaches

August 19, 2024

Heide Trask High School naming stadium and track in honor of coaches

August 19, 2024

ROCKY POINT, N.C. (WECT) – Heide Trask High School will celebrate the naming of the school’s stadium and track in honor of two impactful coaches during the football game against Rocky Mount Prep on Friday, Aug. 23.

The celebration will be during the halftime show, and the game kicks off at 7 p.m.

Ed Gilroy and Bill Mercier are being honored, both contributing to the school’s programs in various ways over tens of years.

Per Pender County Schools:

Coach Ed Gilroy dedicated 42 years to teaching, with a significant portion of his career in Pender County Schools from 1992 to 2021. His coaching career is equally remarkable, spanning 28 years in track and field, 12 years in cross country, 15 years in football, and one year each in basketball and golf. As the Athletic Director at Heide Trask High School from 2002-2019 and again in 2021, Coach Gilroy shaped the athletic programs and guided countless students to success both on and off the field.

Coach Gilroy’s accolades include being a Conference President for 13 years across various conferences and earning multiple certifications and awards, such as the North Carolina Athletic Director of the Year in 2018 and induction into the North Carolina Athletic Directors Association Hall of Fame in 2022. His legacy is further cemented by his contributions as an instructor and mentor to fellow coaches and athletic directors throughout the state.

Coach Bill Mercier spent his entire 30-year teaching career in Pender County, with notable accomplishments in both football and track and field. At Pender High School, Coach Mercier was part of the football coaching staff that led the team to its first conference championship and playoff win. He also spearheaded the Boys Track and Field team to their first conference championship in 1998.

At Heide Trask High School, Coach Mercier’s impact was monumental. Over 17 years, he guided the Men’s Track and Field team to two state championships, four regional championships, and numerous conference titles. His leadership produced nine individual state champions and two relay team state champions. In addition to his coaching achievements, Coach Mercier served as the Assistant Athletic Director for 12 years, playing a crucial role in the development of the school’s athletic programs.

Posted in Local Headlines

Heide Trask High School naming stadium and track in honor of coaches

Heide Trask High School naming stadium and track in honor of coaches

Heide Trask High School naming stadium and track in honor of coaches

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