OPRF High School boys track team celebrates historic state victory

The Oak Park and River Forest High School boys track and field team celebrated a historic achievement at a recent government meeting, where they were honored for winning the IHSA Class 3A state championship for the first time in 37 years. The team not only secured the championship title but also saw three of its athletes—Kaden Garland, Caleb Schultz, and Gigi Osayeboah—claim individual state titles in shot put, the 100-meter dash, and long jump, respectively. This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time OPRF has had a state champion in these events since 1947 and 1924.

Head coach Tim Hasso, along with his dedicated coaching staff, was recognized for their year-round commitment to fostering a successful and inclusive track and field program. The team’s victory was celebrated by Village President Vicki Skaman and the board of trustees, who expressed their pride in the athletes' accomplishments and their representation of the community.

In addition to the athletic accolades, the meeting also featured a presentation on a brand refresh for the Village of Oak Park. Chief Communications Officer Dan Yapchik introduced the local branding agency, Famous Victory, which has been collaborating with the village since fall 2023 to modernize its brand identity. The refresh aims to align with the village's goals of fostering vibrant, diverse, and connected neighborhoods while maintaining a connection to its historical roots.

The branding project included extensive community engagement, with surveys and interviews conducted to gather feedback on the village's image. The new branding will feature a modernized logo, an expanded color palette, and a tagline—\"Generations in the Making\"—that reflects the village's commitment to its history and future.

The rollout of the new brand will coincide with the launch of a redesigned village website, expected in 2024, which will integrate the updated branding elements. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance community engagement and communication, ensuring that the village's identity resonates with its residents and visitors alike.