Kewanee High School senior Alejandro Duarte was one of 21 male student athletes that Illinois Athletic Directors Association recognized as IADA All-State at its annual convention in East Peoria earlier this month. 

This was the inaugural celebration for the IADA All-State Recognition Awards.

The IADA award is independent of the IHSA All-State recognition. Each IADA member athletic director was able to nominate one female and one male student-athlete who exemplifies excellence in all areas. 

The key eligibility requirements stipulate that:

—  The nominee must be a second-semester senior.

—  The student must have participated in at least two IHSA sports and/or activities during each of the last two years.

— One male and one female nominee will be named to the all-state team from each of the 21 districts. Additionally, one male and one female nominee from each district will be named to the honorable mention team. 

Candidates were judged on activities involved in and out of school, leadership, athletic teams success, individual athletic success, school/community/state honors, national honors, a written essay, and recommendations.