East, La Follette Coaches Receive Wisconsin Coaching Project's ‘Bell Cow’ Awards

Two MMSD coaches received statewide recognition for their outstanding leadership in coaching, earning The Wisconsin Coaching Project’s Bell Cow Awards. The term "bell cow" draws from Wisconsin's dairy heritage, symbolizing a leader who sets the pace and direction for others to follow. These coaches inspire, guide and unite their teams, leaving a lasting impact.

La Follette High School Tennis Coach Nan Perschon and East High Wrestling Coach Dayton Yu have both been recognized with this prestigious award. Their dedication, leadership, and ability to inspire their athletes set them apart as true "bell cows."

Nan Perschon – La Follette Tennis

A trailblazer and pillar of the La Follette High School tennis program, Coach Nan Perschon’s coaching legacy spans 32 years, encompassing 64 seasons of boys and girls tennis. A La Follette State Qualifier during her own playing days, Coach Nan has since guided her teams to remarkable achievements: 

• 47 state qualifiers across singles and doubles
• 3 state team qualifications
• 3 team conference championships
• 2 state champions 

Beyond these accolades, Coach Nan’s leadership is rooted in her passion for learning and commitment to the sport. She attends state clinics, professional development opportunities and maintains high standards for her athletes. Her commitment goes beyond the tennis courts, too – she’s a familiar face at La Follette football games as part of the “Chain Gang” and serves as a game manager for boys and girls basketball games.

Dayton Yu – East High Wrestling

Since becoming Madison East’s Head Wrestling Coach in 2017, Dayton has transformed the program year-after-year. Starting with just 12 wrestlers, he has grown participation to over 40 athletes in the 2024-25 season, including the largest number of girl wrestlers in East’s history. 

Dayton’s strengths lie in his ability to build meaningful personal connections. Every day before practice, he greets each wrestler by name, checking in on something specific to their lives. This daily act of care and attention fosters a team culture where every athlete feels valued and supported.

Under his leadership, the wrestling program has achieved multiple team City Championships, All-City and All-Conference awards and many regional and sectional place-winners. More than the accolades, Dayton’s impact is felt in the strong relationships he builds with his athletes, motivating them to succeed on and off the mat.

“Nan and Dayton’s unwavering commitment to their athletes, passion for learning and ability to inspire set the standard for coaching excellence in our district,” MMSD Athletic Director Jeremy Schlitz said. “Their leadership reminds us that great coaches do more than teach a sport – they guide, support, and pave the way for the next generation.”