Hillsborough Basketball Coach, Father Of 2 Dies Of Brain Cancer

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — The Hillsborough Township Committee expressed its condolences on Tuesday over the loss of one of its residents.

"The Hillsborough Committee mourns the loss of beloved coach, counselor, and resident Ian Progin, who lost his 14-year battle with brain cancer on May 2," said Mayor John Ciccarelli at the Tuesday Committee meeting.

"Ian will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and deep love for the people around him. Hillsborough Township offers its condolences to Ian’s family, friends, and students. May your treasured memories be a blessing for Ian and his family," said Ciccarelli.

Progin had been married to his wife, Courtney Sinclair, since 1998. The two were married in a joyful "Mischief Night" celebration on October 30, 2004.

He was also the proud and loving father of Payton Ann Progin, who will graduate this June and attend the University of Vermont in the fall, and Jeffery Randall Progin, who will begin his junior year at Hillsborough High School this September.

"Ian’s family was the center of his universe, and his devotion to them knew no bounds," according to his Hillsborough Funeral Home obituary.

In 2004, Progin became a School Counselor at Hillsborough High School, "where he inspired and guided generations of students with compassion, wisdom, and humor. Ian's impact on his school community was profound, and his dedication to his students never wavered."

In addition to his role as a counselor, Progin made history as the youngest person ever hired as a head basketball coach at Hillsborough High School.

"His leadership extended beyond the court — he mentored players who became future coaches, modeled integrity, and fostered a culture of respect, growth, and teamwork. Ian coached the Boys’ Basketball team for 12 years, culminating in a County Championship in 2014 and a sectional State Championship in 2015. After taking one year off to be with his family, he returned as head coach for the Girls’ Basketball program from 2016 to 2020. And in perhaps his most unexpected coaching assignment, Ian proudly served as the assistant coach for the Hillsborough gymnastics team for three years — despite having absolutely zero gymnastics experience. He brought his trademark enthusiasm to the role, always ready with a high five and a look of mild panic during beam routines," according to his obituary.

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