For the second time in ten months, former Bears kicker Robbie Gould was introduced as the new head football coach at an area high school.
Gould resigned from Rolling Meadows on Dec. 3 and was hired by St. Viator, the Catholic high school four miles northeast, on Dec. 10. The school held a press conference to introduce him on Thursday.
“I’m truly honored to be in this position,” Gould said. “I want to thank everyone involved in this hiring process. It was thorough and thoughtful, and it made it clear that St. Viator is a place where core values and hard work are prioritized. This is a school that places an emphasis on education, character development, and service—values I personally believe in and that I see reflected in this football program.”
St. Viator was 4-5 this season and did not qualify for the state playoffs. The Lions lost five of their last six games, and coach David Archibald resigned after the season.
St. Viator’s starting quarterback was senior Cooper Kmet, the younger brother of Bears tight end Cole Kmet.
St. Viator was 4-5 this season and did not qualify for the state playoffs. The Lions lost five of their last six games, and coach David Archibald resigned after the season.
St. Viator’s starting quarterback was senior Cooper Kmet, the younger brother of Bears tight end Cole Kmet. The Lions have another significant connection to the Bears. Walter Payton’s son Jarrett Payton attended St. Viator.
Gould guided the Mustangs to the IHSA playoffs in his one season as coach, improving their record from two victories to five.
Gould’s move to the Catholic League comes at a time of heightened attention to the public school vs. private school debate. Gould emphasized St. Viator’s facilities in his comments on Thursday.
“The strength and conditioning program here is outstanding, and it’s a critical part of developing our athletes,” Gould said. “But it’s not just about physical strength—this program is about developing mental toughness, perseverance, and teamwork,” said Gould. “These core values will be the foundation of our football team moving forward.”
There are a few former Bears coaching high school football teams in the area. Tom Nelson is at Hersey, Jason McKie at Carmel and Jordan Lynch coaches Mount Carmel.
“As a former Penn State Nittany Lion, I understand the importance of tradition, and the alumni here are incredibly supportive,” Gould said. “I look forward to building a strong community of former players and supporters who will continue to help shape this program for years to come.”