St. Ignatius High School, renowned for its storied football tradition in Ohio, is looking to revitalize its program after a challenging few years. The Wildcats recently announced the hiring of Tom Kaufman as their new head football coach, marking a pivotal moment for the team as they strive to reclaim their past glory.
Kaufman, who takes over from Ryan Franzinger after three seasons, brings a wealth of experience to the position. A graduate of Mentor Lake Catholic and former player at John Carroll University, Kaufman has held several coaching roles in his career. His most recent position was at Marietta College, where he concluded the season with a 5-5 record. Prior to that, he served as head coach at Gilmour Academy, leading the program to a notable 12-win season in 2024. His coaching background also includes time as a defensive coordinator at both John Carroll and Kent State.
St. Ignatius’s football program boasts an impressive 11 state championships, a record in Division I of the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). However, the team has struggled significantly in recent years, achieving a disappointing 5-29 record over the last three seasons, including a pair of 1-10 finishes. This decline has occurred despite the Wildcats’ commitment to maintaining a challenging schedule.
The hiring of Kaufman represents hope for fans and players alike as they look to turn their fortunes around. With the Wildcats’ rich history and Kaufman’s coaching pedigree, there is optimism that he can lead St. Ignatius back to its former status as a powerhouse in high school football. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Kaufman and the Wildcats as they embark on this journey of resurgence.