Football: Jones named new coach at Libertyville
by kevin reiterman kreiterman@pioneerlocal.com January 23, 2012 4:50PM
Mike Jones, who has been at the school since 2003, is expected to be named the head football coach at Libertyville. | Dicker~Sun-Times Media
Related Stories
Updated: February 27, 2012 8:34AM
This past season, Mike Jones was the right-hand man for Libertyville head football coach Randy Kuceyeski.
Now, Jones will be the head man for the traditionally tough Wildcats.
“His name rose to the top during the interview process,” said Libertyville athletic director Briant Kelly, noting that Jones was approved by the District 128 School Board on Monday night. “We’re excited about having Mike as our new head football coach.”
“Obviously, we’ve had a long tradition of good football here,” Kelly added. “He’s going to continue that tradition.”
Jones, a defensive coordinator, has been at the school since 2003.
Kuceyeski, who battled throat cancer during the season, stepped down after 18 seasons.
Jones, according to Kelly, was a trusted and devoted assistant during a challenging campaign.
“Mike stepped up when Randy had to go through treatments,” the AD said.
Jones was on Kuceyeski’s staff during the glory years. The Wildcats won the Class 7A state title in 2004 and took second the previous year.
Kuceyeski has left the program in good shape. The Wildcats (5-5) made the state playoffs last fall with a junior-laden squad. Key players in key positions, including quarterback Jack Deichl, offensive lineman Brandon Stanfel, and all-conference defenders Drew Krinitsky (linebacker) and Joey Salata (defensive back), are expected to return next season.
“We had more than 100 applicants, including some from out of state,” said Kelly. “We brought in a lot of good head coaches and coordinators.”
Prior to his arrival at Libertyville, Jones taught math and coached football and boys basketball at Grayslake Central for 13 years.
Comments Click here to view or make a comment