St. Ignatius Appoints Tom Kaufman as New Football Coach
Tom Kaufman has been appointed as the new football coach for St. Ignatius, effective immediately. The announcement was made by the school on a recent Monday.
Background of Tom Kaufman
Kaufman replaces Ryan Franzinger, who held the position for three years. His primary objective will be to restore the Wildcats to the heights they reached during Chuck Kyle’s impressive 40-year tenure. Unlike his predecessors, Kaufman is not a St. Ignatius alumnus; he graduated from Lake Catholic.
Previous Coaching Experience
Kaufman brings a wealth of coaching experience. He played at John Carroll University from 1999 to 2002. Early in his career, he became a linebackers coach. His impressive resume includes:
- Defensive Coordinator at Kent State University
- Defensive Coordinator at John Carroll University
- Head Coach at Gilmour Academy, leading the team to a record-setting 12 wins in 2024 and a spot in the OHSAA Division III regional finals
- Recent head coach at Marietta College, finishing with a record of 5-5
Challenges Ahead for the Wildcats
Kaufman steps into a challenging role with the St. Ignatius Wildcats, who have an unparalleled history in Division I football, boasting 11 state championships. Their most recent state title was in 2011. The team has faced significant struggles in recent years, finishing the last two seasons with a record of 1-10.
Recent History
St. Ignatius parted ways with Franzinger in November after a disappointing tenure, marked by a combined 5-29 record over three seasons. The Wildcats had hoped to build upon Kyle’s successful legacy, but injuries and a tough schedule hampered their performance.
Upcoming Season Prospects
Kaufman will inherit a team that is losing key players, including All-Ohio safety Jayshon Thomas and offensive tackle Michael van der Oord, who is committed to Pittsburgh. However, there are promising prospects returning:
- Trey Haddad, a Division I college prospect at receiver
- Jacob Mikin, a sophomore quarterback who has already started
- Junior linebacker James Conrad, expected back from injury
As Kaufman embarks on this new chapter at St. Ignatius, he will aim to revitalize the Wildcats and lead them back to their competitive roots in Ohio high school football.
