Kuceyeski honored in Walker's name

Libertyville football coach Randy Kuceyeski has received a big honor.

Kuceyeski was recently named the first recipient of the Randy Walker coaches award.

The award is given on behalf of the American Football Coaches Foundation and the Walker family to an Illinois high school football coach that has demonstrated the following qualities and characteristics throughout his career:

• achieves a winning tradition, not only on the football field, but in life

• serves as a role model and mentor to recognize the importance of academic achievement as well as athletic development

• teaches by example the importance of effort, attitude, discipline, persistence and dedication

• gives back to the community and the profession as a leader off the field

"Randy has made a big impact on so many peoples' lives," said Tammy Walker, widow of the late Northwestern football coach. "It's something for which he should be very proud. Football is a wonderful game and it certainly has enriched both of our families' lives."

Kuceyeski has been the head coach at Libertyville for 16 years. His 2003 team finished second in state and his 2004 team won the Class 7A state title, giving LHS its first state championship in football. Kuceyeski was voted the 2004 Nike coach of the year. He was recently selected by the National Football League to represent the state of Illinois at the National Youth Development Summit to be held in Canton, Ohio this month.

Kuceyeski and his wife Martha have four children and six grandchildren.