Not many coaches can say they won PIAA championships at two schools. But Dori Oldaker did it -- and added a perfect twist to her story this year.
Oldaker guided Mt. Lebanon to WPIAL and PIAA titles, and the Blue Devils became only the second girls' team in WPIAL history to finish a season with a perfect record. They were 31-0.
Oldaker also coached Blackhawk from 1998-2002 and won two WPIAL and two PIAA titles. She was the Post-Gazette coach of the year in 1999.
Oldaker was an assistant at Pitt for one season before becoming Mt. Lebanon's coach in 2003. Her record at Mt. Lebanon is 125-22 and her all-time record is 235-40 (.855 percentage).
Oldaker, 40, is a second-grade teacher in the Mt. Lebanon district. She is married with two daughters, ages 1 and 2.
What was the biggest key to this season? I know everyone hates to hear it, and it's a cliche, but I'd have to say our chemistry. These girls really cared about each other and did not care about points.
How hard is it to have two kids, teach second grade and run a big-time high school program? It's extremely hard, but my husband [Mark] makes it unbelievably simple. I have an unbelievable husband who is willing to sacrifice.
You coached one year in college. It just wasn't for you? It just wasn't the right time, and it wasn't the perfect situation. But it ended up working out perfect for me because of where I am today.
If you won a million dollars what would you buy first? I always tell my husband I don't want to win the lottery because we're pretty happy right now.
What advice would you give to sports parents? My biggest thing would be to relax and enjoy the four years your daughter plays because it goes fast. Also, let the chips fall where they may with playing time.
People might be surprised to know that you ... My husband won't let me watch sad movies because I cry before they even start.