Hall of Fame

Induction Year: 2017

The name Cliff Eade is synonymous with Carl Sandburg High School athletics. During his 38 year career as an Eagle, Cliff Eade contributed as a member of the baseball and football coaching staffs.

As the varsity baseball coach from 1965 - 1972, Cliff guided the team to three conference championships in 1965, 1966, and 1967. Cliff’s teams went on to win two Regional Titles, one in 1965 and another in 1967.

Cliff’s experience and knowledge as a football player at Northern Illinois University helped him coach and lead the Sandburg football team to great success. He was the third Head Coach in the program’s history from 1972 - 1980. In 1975, he earned the SICA Football Coach of the Year Award and led the team to a Conference Championship.

The biggest impact on Sandburg came from Cliff Eade in his role as Athletic Director, a position he held for 18 years, the longest term of any Athletic Director in the history of the school. At the time Cliff took over, Sandburg was known for its competitive programs; however, the school had yet to capture a State Title. By the end of Cliff’s career, the drought was over. Sandburg won State Titles in boys soccer and boys and girls volleyball under his leadership. Cliff also served as President of the SIW Suburban Baseball Association, Vice-President of SICA Football Coaches Association, and President of the SICA West Athletic Directors.

Now retired, Cliff spends time with his wife and three grandchildren. He is an active member of the Faith United Methodist Church of Orland Park. Cliff also finds time to tutor first through third graders at Foster Elementary. The students of Carl Sandburg High School were very fortunate to be the recipients of Cliff Eade’s leadership and passion for 38 years.