Legendary Coach John Holecek Returns to Lead Loyola Academy Football

Holecek, who won 3 state titles in 16 seasons, will take over the Ramblers program again after a 3-year absence.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a high school football game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes in a bold color palette, capturing the energy and intensity of the sport.Holecek's return to the sidelines at Loyola Academy promises to reinvigorate the storied high school football program.Wilmette Today

According to a report from WGN, legendary high school football coach John Holecek is returning as the head coach of Loyola Academy in Wilmette, Illinois. Holecek previously led the Ramblers from 2006 to 2022, compiling a 185-35 record and winning 3 state championships and 9 conference titles. After his departure in 2022, the team struggled to a 4-5 record last season, prompting his return to try and restore the program to its previous success.

Why it matters

Holecek is considered one of the most successful high school football coaches in Illinois history, and his return to Loyola Academy is expected to immediately boost the team's fortunes and restore the school's reputation as a powerhouse program. The Ramblers have a strong tradition of excellence, and Holecek's proven track record should help them quickly rebound from their rare down season.

The details

During Holecek's previous 16-year tenure as Loyola Academy's head coach from 2006 to 2022, he led the team to a remarkable 185-35 record, including 3 state championships and 9 Chicago Catholic League titles. After his departure in 2022, the Ramblers struggled to a 4-5 record this past season, their first losing campaign since 2005. With Holecek now returning as head coach, along with the hiring of Beau Desherow as general manager/assistant coach, the team is expected to quickly regain its winning form and return to being one of the top high school football programs in Illinois.

  • Holecek was the head coach of Loyola Academy from 2006 to 2022.
  • Holecek is returning as the head coach for the 2026 season.

The players

John Holecek

A legendary high school football coach in Illinois, Holecek previously led Loyola Academy to 3 state championships and 9 conference titles during his 16-year tenure as head coach from 2006 to 2022.

Beau Desherow

Desherow will be the new general manager and assistant coach for the Loyola Academy football program, working alongside the returning head coach John Holecek.

Jordan McKinley

A 2028 three-star tight end who is one of the key returning players for Loyola Academy's football team.

Jack Stanton

A linebacker who is one of the slated returners for the Loyola Academy football team.

Matthew Lee

The returning quarterback for the Loyola Academy football team.

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What they’re saying

“The most successful high school football head coach in Loyola Academy (IL) program history is returning, according to a report.”

— Mike Lowe, WGN Reporter

What’s next

Loyola Academy will look to quickly return to its winning ways under the leadership of legendary coach John Holecek, who is expected to help the team rebound from its rare down season in 2025.

The takeaway

Holecek's return to Loyola Academy is a major coup for the prestigious high school program, as he brings a proven track record of sustained excellence and championship-caliber football. His arrival should immediately boost the team's fortunes and restore its reputation as one of the top high school football programs in Illinois.