Hand athletic director Craig Semple has confirmed that football coach Steve Filippone was named National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year Wednesday night at the NHSACA national convention at the Snow King Resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Filippone was one of eight finalists.

Filippone’s selection was based on longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years and winning percentage.

“It means a tremendous amount to be recognized as one of those eight coaches,” Filippone said when he was nominated back in March. “I recognize completely the men I work with every day, the kids I work with every day and the community I work in every day. I’m obviously blessed to be in that kind of situation.”

Filippone just completed his 25th season as head coach and 35th overall with the Tigers’ program. He has a career record of 201-53-4 which includes seven state championships. Filippone also served as the chairman of the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Football Committee for 14 years.