They're back at the helm of boys soccer

Look who's back coaching boys high school soccer.

Andy Bitta and David Ekstrom have both returned to coach soccer at their respective schools for a second time.

Bitta returns to Libertyville and Ekstrom is back at Mundelein.

Bitta is back after a nine-year absence and takes over for Scott Schinto. Ekstrom returns from a 7-year hiatus and takes over for Chris Sell.

Both coaches have plenty of history in the sport and are considered elder statesman of the soccer community.

Bitta started coaching soccer for the Wildcats in 1978 and held that position for 21 years. He was inducted into the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2001 and led Libertyville to a state runner-up finish in 1986.

"Honestly, it's like taking a pep pill to come back," Bitta said. "It energizes me, working with these young kids."

Over the years, Bitta has been working with players at the younger levels. And he's coached his own boys Austin and Andrew as they've grown up; they're 12 and 14 years old now.

"I really missed soccer," Bitta added. "I missed the competition and state tournament time. I like the X's and O's and trying to advance."

Recently at a rules meeting, Bitta met up with long-time friends Ekstrom and Lake Forest assistant coach Ty Stuckslager.

"They mentioned, they were glad to see me back into it," Bitta said. "It was a good welcome back and they were very cordial about it."

Ekstrom enters his 19th year as a head coach at Mundelein. He started coaching there in 1981.

"In talking with Andy (Bitta), it was like coming back and talking about the old days, when soccer was in its infancy."

Ekstrom wanted to come back to the game for similar reasons.

"I had a nice break after seven years and wanted to do it again," Ekstrom said. "I've noticed the skill level of the players is much higher these days. The tactical part of the game has advanced."

Mundelein's program has gone to a different level over the past decade. Just before Ekstrom stepped away from coaching, the Mustangs had a 16-5-2 record and won a regional.

Stevenson coach Mark Schartner now has some company once again as he enters his 21st year coaching the Patriots boys.

"It's nice to see two really good friends coaching again," Schartner said. "I've coached against them for 20 years. Andy (Bitta), even coached my son Erik 10 years ago.

"I'm just excited to see them back. I felt like I was the old man and the last one around.

"It's a good thing for the conference and the area. Both of them are real good coaches."