VH's Monken nets coaching honor

Tony Monken of Vernon Hills High School was named the Chicago Bears High School "Coach of the Week" on Monday.

In his eighth year as head coach, Monken has led the Vernon Hills football program since the school opened its doors. After a 2-7 first year with no seniors, he has taken the Cougars to the playoffs five of the following six seasons.

Vernon Hills moved to 4-3 overall and 3-1 in the North Suburban Prairie with its 27-26 win over North Chicago on Friday. Monken's career record at Vernon Hill's High School is now 43-35.

In honor of Monken, $1,500 will be donated to Vernon Hill's football program. Monken will be invited to the Bears-Giants game on Sunday, Dec. 2, and will be recognized in an on-field ceremony that day. Honorees will also receive a framed certificate and will attend a Bears' practice and "chalk-talk" with Bears coach Lovie Smith.

The Chicago Bears "Coach of the Week" program is in its 12th season this year. The program honors outstanding Illinois high school coaches who develop players' football skills and knowledge, character, leadership, discipline, and teamwork abilities. Other criteria considered include graduation rates, coaching technique, school and community support, volunteerism, and, most importantly, contributions to players' long-term success on and off the field.

Coaches are nominated by a panel of local prep authorities and Bears staff, and the winning "Coach of the Week" is selected each Monday. The Chicago Bears will make a $1,500 contribution to the football program at each winning coach's school.