Introduction to Ken Grams’ Legacy
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. (WGN) — Ken Grams began teaching at Elk Grove High School in 1966, the year it opened. Since then, he’s never left.
“My line is, I was here with the first load of bricks, and that’s really the truth,” Grams said with a laugh.
Grams no longer teaches full-time in the classroom, only as a substitute, but his coaching career is still going strong now in his 44th season guiding the Grenadiers girls softball team.
Coaching Career and Evolution of Softball
“People ask if the kids have changed, but they haven’t,” Grams said. “The stuff around them has, but they are the same kids you were.”
While kids will be kids, Grams has seen the sport of softball evolve over his four-and-a-half decades in the game.
"I think it’s more fun to play now,” Grams said, noting the uptick in offense. “Pitchers back then would really dominate, and how do I say this nicely: The only ones who cared were the pitcher’s parents or Aunt Hazel. Now it’s a fun game to play and watch.”
What’s also fun is winning—something Grams teams have done a lot of over the years. On March 31st, Grams grabbed career victory 1,045, the most in IHSA softball history.
“It’s a lot of wins, yes it is,” Grams said. “A lot of cold spring days.”
Reaction to the Record
“His legacy with Elk Grove has carried on for years and being part of that monumental moment was incredible,” Senior Hannah Kugelberg said.
The school had shirts made to commemorate the moment, but Grams, not being one to bask in the spotlight, was just ready for the record chase to finally be over with.
“I’ll be honest with you, relief,” Grams said of the prevailing feeling he had after setting the record. “People were being nice and I appreciate it, but they would ask how many more you got now [until the record], and I’m not tired of it, but let’s move on."
How much of an institution at Elk Grove is Grams?
He is also the school’s PA announcer and has not missed a football game since the school opened. He will celebrate his 60th season behind the mic this fall. So, while Grams can move on from the softball record, his legacy at the school is set.
“We helped him get here, every girl leading up to this point, and he may not like being the center of attention, but it really is an incredible milestone in his life, and I think he’ll always hold on to that,” Senior Aliya Garcia said.
“He takes you in with open arms, makes you feel welcomed and makes you have fun while playing,” Kugelberg said.
Lasting Impact
When asked about the mark he thinks he’s left in his nearly 60 years at Elk Grove, Grams said, “I just think as someone who appreciates everything going on in this community and school. By being here, I’ve shown that. Nothing is perfect, but this is a good place to be, and I hope that’s the message they are getting.”
Conclusion
Ken Grams’ legacy at Elk Grove High School extends far beyond his impressive wins record. His dedication, passion, and commitment to the school and its community have made him an institution. As he continues to coach and contribute to the school, his impact will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.
FAQs
Q: How many years has Ken Grams been coaching at Elk Grove High School?
A: Ken Grams has been coaching at Elk Grove High School for 44 years.
Q: What is Ken Grams’ record for career victories in IHSA softball history?
A: Ken Grams holds the record for the most career victories in IHSA softball history with 1,045 wins.
Q: What other role does Ken Grams hold at Elk Grove High School?
A: Ken Grams is also the school’s PA announcer and has not missed a football game since the school opened.
