The Football Journey of the Hites Brothers
Reid and Connor Hites, siblings attending St. Ignatius, have a traditional football narrative with a unique twist. Unlike many others, they didn’t throw the ball in suburbia; they honed their skills atop a garage in Lincoln Park’s urban environment. This turfed patio with protective netting served as their early playground. Connor reminisced, “We would go out there, play catch, play one-on-one, just try to tackle each other.” The brothers sported oversized Bears jerseys and football pads, hitting and tackling each other for fun.
Reid and Connor’s Roles
Reid emerged as the starting quarterback as a junior. Connor, initially a receiver, shifted roles, evolving into a hybrid linebacker, now essential to the Wolfpack’s defense. His journey has earned him scholarship offers, including one from West Virginia, though he opted for Penn in the Ivy League. This decision aligns with his father’s legacy, who also played football at Brown.
Image Credit: Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune
Connor Hites practicing on campus in Chicago, Sept. 28, 2026.
Connor, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 205 pounds, doesn’t initially appear intimidating, yet his playing style is crucial to collegiate defenses. Coach Matt Miller highlighted Connor’s role, explaining, “He’s a college nickel, a role that’s gained popularity. He’s a smaller linebacker capable of coverage, making him highly recruited.” Connor exhibits the tenacity of traditional Catholic League linebackers. “He’s flying into contact like nobody I’ve seen,” Miller praised.
Reid’s Resilience
Reid was supposed to lead as quarterback last year, but an untimely injury during a scrimmage derailed the plan. A broken arm requiring surgery sidelined him. Despite the Wolfpack’s 2-7 record last season, Reid returned post-recovery, leading a victorious three-game streak, including a Prep Bowl win against Morgan Park. “The first week I was back, it was rough getting into the groove,” Reid recalled. “After that, I picked it up and regained my footing.”
Reid Hites at practice in Chicago on Sept. 28, 2026.
Image Credit: Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune
Challenges and Triumphs
St. Ignatius tasted playoff success in recent years, making semifinals and quarterfinals appearances. The reward was facing high-caliber teams in CCL/ESCC Blue. Assigned to CCL Orange this season, Wolfpack clinched victories against top teams like IC Catholic, Fenwick, St. Rita, and Carmel. Their biggest challenge this season arrives with a game against Loyola. Reflecting on their journey, Connor said, “We held high expectations, driven by the past seasons where we’ve been underestimated.”
Connor and Reid grew up with city exposure, viewing the Chicago skyline during Roosevelt Avenue practices. Their parents, originally from Valparaiso, Indiana, and Akron, Ohio, embraced city life. “We were born in California, moved here for my dad’s work,” Reid said. The city became their norm, echoing their parents’ preferences against rural living.
The Hites Brothers represent a blend of urban upbringing and athletic ambition. They invite you to admire the city view and witness their winning journey.
Image Credit: Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune
Reid and Connor Hites during practice on campus in Chicago, Sept. 28, 2026.
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