John Holecek returns for a second stint as Loyola football coach

John Holecek is back. Even though he didn’t leave for very long.

The school announced Tuesday afternoon that Holecek, an assistant coach at Loyola for the past two seasons, is once again head coach.

Holecek stepped down in December 2022 after leading the program to the Class 8A state championship, his third at the school. He compiled a 185-36 record in his first stint as head coach. The Ramblers played in seven state finals during Holecek’s run and made the playoffs in every season.

He returned in July 2024 as an assistant coach under Beau Desherow, who led the Ramblers for the past three seasons.

"This program has always meant a great deal to me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to step back into this role," Holecek said in a statement. "Working alongside Beau and our staff, we're focused on continuing to raise the standard and creating an environment where our students can grow, compete, and thrive."

Holecek played eight seasons in the NFL, most with Buffalo, after starring at Marian Catholic and Illinois.

Desherow is staying with the program and taking over a new position as general manager.

"Loyola Academy is fortunate to have outstanding leaders who are deeply committed to our Jesuit mission," Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, president of Loyola Academy said in a statement. "John and Beau's shared dedication to developing the physical, spiritual, and emotional strength of our student-athletes reflects what it truly means to be men for others. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have such a remarkable duo leading our program."

Desherow was 30-7 in his three seasons. He led Loyola to back-to-back Class 8A state championships in his first two years. The Ramblers finished 4-5 against a difficult schedule last season. Loyola lost to Mount Carmel in the first round of the state playoffs.

"Beau has been an outstanding leader of this program and a steady presence for our students," Loyola Athletic Director Genevieve Atwood said. "His ability to build relationships, develop talent, and lead with integrity has been central to our recent success, and his expanded role will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the program."

Holecek was widely regarded as the top coach in the state when he stepped down in 2022. He has some stiff competition for that imaginary title now. Mount Carmel coach Jordan Lynch has won four consecutive state titles with the Caravan.

Over the past few seasons, Loyola has had several players with Power Four scholarship offers. That is still the case, but it wasn't true during much of Holecek's first run.

The Ramblers' success then was due to superior coaching skill and numbers, not necessarily top-tier athletes. There isn't another high school football program in the state with a general manager. It's likely that other schools in the area were trying to tempt Holecek away. But the new position allows Loyola to keep Holecek and Desherow.

"It has been a privilege to lead this program over the past three years," Desherow said. "I'm grateful to continue serving Loyola in this new role and to work alongside John and our staff. We have a strong foundation in place, and I’m excited about what we can continue to build together for our players and for the entire Loyola community."