Dennis Denning Day Honors a Coaching Legacy

May 9, 2025

More than 80 former players and alumni gathered on Shrode Field on May 2 to honor legendary Coach Dennis Denning. The occasion, known as Dennis Denning Day, paid tribute to a man whose leadership, passion, and legacy helped shape generations of student-athletes.

Denning’s wife, Nancy, and daughters, Jamie and Heather, looked on from the stands as longtime assistant coach Huck Shields took the mound to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. 

After watching the Raiders defeat Forest Lake, the celebration continued in the Lentsch Forum. At least one player from each of Denning’s six state championship teams was present, sharing reflections of how their coach impacted their lives both on and off the field. Wes Denning ’91, Dennis’s son, spoke to the crowd, sharing his thoughts and gratitude for the community support.

Coach Dennis Denning passed away on November 16, 2022, but his name lives on not only in banners and trophies, but in the lives of the players he mentored and the culture he helped build.