Known for coaching girls’ soccer, badminton and table tennis, physical education and wellness teacher Marx Succes is retiring after 38 years of teaching. 

Throughout Succes’ years at Evanston, community has always been important. If a student event and faculty gathering conflict, Succes already knows where he will be. 

“This may sound bad, but I never came here for the adults,” said Succes. 

For Succes, these connections make teaching meaningful, and he hopes future teachers will feel the same as they start their careers. Succes believes that his job is more than just the lessons he teaches in physical education. His days consist of mentoring new teachers, who he encourages to show up with passion.

“If you don’t love it, get out of it early,” said Succes. “Don’t do it for a paycheck.”

Succes has coached and taught, and he has achieved great success in both areas. In 2002, his girls’ soccer team won the state championship.

“[State] stands, first and foremost, as the most memorable and is etched in history. We’re a Hall of Fame team–go look on the wall in front of G180 and you’ll see a picture,” said Succes.

Along with his coaching victories, Succes was awarded the Teacher Excellence Award in 2025.

“To have that as an accomplishment, something you recognize for your efforts, was also great,” said Succes.

Succes’ retirement plans consist of traveling and spending time with family. His first spots will be Texas and Florida to visit his son and grandchildren. Then, he hopes to put more time into his humanitarian work.

“I have a mission trip this summer in July,” said Succes. “My first spot is Trinidad and Tobago.”

Succes’ love for the community will always bring him back to Evanston.

“I plan on coaching, at least on a part-time basis,” said Success. “I’m not sure if I’m going to keep doing soccer, badminton and table tennis, but I do plan on keeping a home base in Evanston. I’ve built such a great community of friends and colleagues here,” said Succes.