Dave Lett served as the head football coach at Seneca High School from 1987-1994, leading the program through a remarkable era that included six consecutive playoff appearances from 1989 to 1994. The pinnacle of his coaching tenure came during the magical 1990 season, when the team played the most exciting playoff game in SHS history against Knoxville. Coach Lett then guided the Fighting Irish to the IHSA Class 2A State Championship title in a 34–8 victory over Gillespie. Beyond his high school sports legacy, Dave’s greatest pride and joy is his family, sharing 39 years of marriage with his wife, Karen, and raising their four adult children: Olivia, Charley Ann, Sydney, and Christian. He adores being a grandpa to Isabella and is excited to welcome two more grandchildren soon.

Following his coaching career at Seneca—where he also spent seven years as an assistant track coach—Lett transitioned into administration, and ultimately spent 16 years as superintendent in Pana until his retirement in 2017.

Despite the personal accolades and recognition as Grand Marshal, Coach Lett remains remarkably humble about his achievements. He emphasizes that any honor bestowed upon him belongs to the entire 1990 team, assistant coaches, and supportive community who made the championship run possible. Expressing deep gratitude for the recognition, Lett views himself simply as the representative face of a collective effort, attributing the historic success to a special group of dedicated student-athletes and a town that rallied wholeheartedly behind them.

Join us in honoring Coach Lett and celebrating the Fighting Irish tradition on Friday, September 11th! The Homecoming Parade will start at SGS South Campus at 4:00 PM. There will then be an FFA Porkchop BBQ from 4:30-6:30 PM behind the football bleachers before we kickoff the Homecoming Game at 7:00 PM!