Donna O’Leary Receives August 2022 New Jersey’s Heartland Hero Award

Donna O’Leary is a champion on and off the field. As the head coach of Salem High School’s Rams field hockey team, she has made a lasting impression on countless women. We are proud to announce Donna as our August 2022 Heartland Hero.

More than 30 years ago, Donna took over as the Salem High School field hockey coach, setting a goal for 200 wins over the course of her career. Since then, Donna and the Rams players through the years have won 300 games!

One of Coach O’Leary’s gifts is her ability to impart “life skills” so that her players can flourish beyond field hockey and into the “game of life.” Although wins are important to her, the character development of each of her players is equally important.

Donna has created an impressive legacy at Salem High School, while simultaneously having a long-lasting and positive influence on each of her players. For the mentorship she has provided, as well as the inspiration she continues to be, New Jersey’s Heartland is proud to honor Donna O’Leary as the August 2022 Heartland Hero.

While New Jersey’s Heartland is filled with hidden gems, its biggest treasures are the people who make the region a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family. All Heartland Heroes receive a Heartland Heroes Certificate and Gift Basket in recognition of their award. To nominate your Heartland Hero, visit http://njheartland.org/live/heartland-heroes-nomination-form/.