John Holecek’s return to coaching Loyola Academy after three years away from the sidelines marks a significant shift. Yet, the addition of offensive coordinator Danny Schaechter could be more impactful. Schaechter comes with unconventional experience, having coached Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C. The team’s early success with a more pass-focused strategy is a positive sign for undefeated Loyola.
“So far, it’s been great,” Holecek noted. “The Catholic League was traditionally focused on power plays and running. This approach is different, utilizing varied personnel packages.” Loyola, currently ranked fifth in the Chicago Tribune’s high school football top 25, prepares for a critical game against third-ranked Brother Rice in the CCL Blue division.
“Caleb was going to be special regardless of my involvement,” Schaechter said, reflecting on a past meeting aimed at recruiting Williams to Gonzaga. In that meeting, Schaechter outlined how his offense could help Williams maximize his abilities.
During Williams’ sophomore year, Gonzaga won their conference championship with a thrilling 46-43 victory over DeMatha. The climax came with a 53-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass by Williams in the final seconds. Schaechter uses this game to illustrate the importance of perseverance.
Schaechter, originally from Northbrook, has a deep history in football. He played at Glenbrook North and later joined Illinois State as a student assistant. His coaching journey with Randy Trivers began in Florida and continued at Gonzaga. After Williams went to college, Schaechter returned closer to home and joined Libertyville before accepting the position at Loyola.
Schaechter commented on his role at Loyola: “There’s a lot that’s similar to what we did at Libertyville. I’m now using strategies I wish I had with Caleb.” Current Loyola junior quarterback Matthew Lee appreciates Schaechter’s approach: “He’s humble about his past successes, and we enjoy the highlights. I hope he can replicate that success here.” This marked a return to form for the Ramblers after a rare losing season.
Loyola moved quarterback Dominic Maloney, a skilled baseball player, to safety, allowing Matthew Lee to take more snaps. Holecek stated, “Maloney is an exceptional athlete, and placing him at safety benefits the whole team.” With familiar coaching faces like Holecek, Schaechter, defensive coordinator Pete Devine, and former head coach Beau Desherow, Loyola looks set to reclaim their strong standing. The team claimed three state titles under Holecek and further success under Desherow.
Schaechter shared a connection with Caleb Williams, saying, “I sent him our schedule. He gave me everything in high school, and the mutual respect we share remains important.” This captures the ongoing rapport with former players.
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