You might have seen two PE teachers walking the hallways of West with their matching shirts. Physical Education teachers Daniel Vanderjeugdt and Anthony Konsewicz are now celebrating their last year at Niles West before retirement.

Vanderjeugdt found his passion for teaching physical education by being an athlete himself and coaching all throughout college. This is now his 33rd year teaching and his 26th year at Niles West. He previously taught at Barrington High School along with being an elementary teacher for a while. He has coached the varsity swim team for 35 years. Outside of school, he works his summers at a country club and in retirement, he is going to be a ski instructor in the winter. Together, he and Konsewicz built the adventure education program. The program first began in 2001 and is still running today.

Vanderjeugdt also founded the Integrated Physical Education program in 2017. He has been the sole teacher of that class since the first year. Senior Sophie Gardner is going to miss him dearly.

“He is so kind and so funny, in addition to being so great to talk to at any time,” Gardner said. “The music he had on to create a fun atmosphere was amazing as well.”

This is Konsewicz’s 27th year at Niles West. He’s taught freshmen physical education and adventure ed. Prior to West, he taught at Parkview Elementary School. During his first year here he coached baseball, but as of now, he has coached three sports: football, basketball and girls cross country.

For retirement, Konsewicz plans to continue working out, fishing, golfing and participating in many of the activities he’s taught in adventure ed. According to him, he is very proud of his students and wants to leave them some advice.

“You don’t need a life plan when you’re leaving high school, but have a work ethic. Have determination, drive, just be kind [and] be a good person,” Konsewicz said. “People remember you for the kind person you are far above your accomplishments.”

Athletics Director Dana Krilich has worked closely with Konsewicz. According to her, he has left a lasting impact on the students and staff members at West.

“Coach Konsewicz brought an unmatched passion for health, fitness and physical welfare to West, dedicating his career to teaching students and how to care for their bodies, while coaching countless athletes,” Krilich said. “A true embodiment of school spirit, he was always easy to spot at a pep rally in his iconic red and white overalls. [He is] leaving behind a legacy that West will never forget.”

As they go into retirement, both of them will be missed by West and the physical education department.