St. Patrick High School has appointed Tom Zbikowski as its new football coach, marking a significant milestone for both the school and Zbikowski himself. A former Buffalo Grove graduate and Notre Dame All-American, Zbikowski brings an impressive athletic background to his new role. His experience extends beyond college football, having played professionally in the NFL with teams like the Bears, Colts, and Ravens. Zbikowski expressed his excitement about returning to Chicago and emphasized his commitment to fostering a disciplined and resilient team spirit. He aims to rebuild the program and restore its past glory, which has not seen playoff qualification since the 2021-22 season. The school’s leadership believes that Zbikowski's passion and dedication will be instrumental in achieving these goals.

A Return to Roots: Zbikowski's Journey Back to Chicago

Tom Zbikowski's appointment as the new football coach at St. Patrick represents a full-circle moment in his career. Having grown up in the Chicago area and attended Buffalo Grove High School, Zbikowski's return signifies more than just a coaching position—it symbolizes a homecoming. He is eager to bring a strong, disciplined approach to the team, aiming to build a program that the entire community can take pride in. Zbikowski's journey from a standout player at Notre Dame to an NFL athlete and even a professional boxer showcases his diverse experiences and resilience.

Zbikowski's decision to step into coaching is driven by his desire to make a meaningful impact on young athletes' lives. He recognizes that guiding students through sports can be one of the most rewarding achievements. His previous roles as an assistant coach at Brown University and Western Michigan University have prepared him for this new challenge. Zbikowski officially takes over on February 1st and plans to address the St. Patrick community during a varsity basketball game on January 24th. His presence promises to inject fresh energy and enthusiasm into the football program.

Building a Legacy: Zbikowski's Vision for St. Patrick's Football

The Shamrocks football team has faced challenges in recent years, culminating in a 2-7 record under the previous coach, Luke Mertens. With Zbikowski at the helm, there is hope for a turnaround. His vision includes instilling a tough, disciplined mentality in the players, ensuring they are not only competitive on the field but also exemplify excellence off it. Zbikowski's background in both football and boxing underscores his understanding of discipline and perseverance, qualities he intends to pass on to his players.

St. Patrick's president, Dan Santucci, praised Zbikowski's passion and intensity, noting that these attributes make him an ideal leader for the football program. Zbikowski's tenure as a firefighter and EMT with the Chicago Fire Department further highlights his commitment to service and community. As he prepares to lead the team, Zbikowski is focused on rebuilding the program's foundation and restoring its competitive edge. By aligning with the school's values, he aims to create a winning culture that extends beyond the football field, fostering growth and success for all involved.