Zimmer’s Coaching Journey Comes Full Circle at Chesterton High

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Educational Background

Riley Zimmer is a science teacher and basketball coach whose path has been shaped by a lifelong passion for both academics and athletics. She earned a dual bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Secondary Education from Valparaiso University (VU) and later completed her master’s degree in Curriculum and Educational Technology from Ball State University. While at VU, Zimmer completed her student teaching at Chesterton High School, giving her an early connection to the community where she now coaches.

From Illinois to Indiana

Zimmer graduated from Fremd High School in Palatine, Illinois, home of the Vikings, where she was a senior pitcher during a standout 20–7 season, playing a key role in sectional championship wins. She was a multi-sport athlete excelling in both basketball and softball. Her experience as a player developed her leadership and competitive skills, which she now brings to her coaching.

Path to Teaching

Originally intending to pursue a career in chemical engineering, Zimmer received a scholarship for a program dedicated to preparing future math and science teachers. While she initially planned to use it as a secondary credential, her experience in the classroom—particularly during student teaching—sparked a genuine passion for education. She enjoys the variety and energy that each school day brings, embracing the different personalities of her classes and the unpredictability that comes with teaching. Her love for chemistry, combined with her adaptability and ability to adjust to changing circumstances, continues to fuel her enthusiasm for the profession.

Coaching Career & Team Successes

Zimmer spent seven seasons as a varsity assistant girls basketball coach at Valparaiso High School, where she coached under Head Coach Candy Wilson. During this time, the program achieved significant success, including two sectional championships (2023, 2024) and a regional championship in 2024—the team’s first in two decades.

In 2024, Zimmer joined Coach Wilson at Chesterton High School as a varsity assistant girls basketball coach, returning to the school where she had completed her student teaching and deepening her commitment to the Trojan community.

Coaching Philosophy & Advice to Students

Zimmer believes in bringing maximum effort to every opportunity and taking responsibility when falling short. She encourages students and athletes to learn from mistakes, overcome adversity, and focus on how they respond to challenges, viewing these moments as essential to personal growth.