St. Francis Football: Success Against the Odds

St. Francis High School, often seen as a football powerhouse, offers a reality that contrasts with its reputation. When St. Francis traveled to suburban Indianapolis to face New Palestine, a two-time Indiana state champion, the disparity in numbers was evident. St. Francis suited up around 30 players, whereas New Palestine had twice that number. This scenario is familiar to the Spartans, who celebrated a Class 5A state title win last fall.

In 2024, a significant victory for St. Francis under Coach Bob McMillen was against Loyola, the largest private school in the Chicago area. Senior player Peyton Shipley recalls the game vividly. “I remember warm-ups the most,” Shipley reflected. “We had around 35 guys, and they had about 130. It was surreal.” Despite the odds, St. Francis won 35-21. That year, Loyola claimed the 8A state title.

The journey has been noteworthy for St. Francis.

McMillen became the head coach in 2017, steering the team through challenging seasons initially. His previous experience in the Arena Football League equipped him well for this role. By joining the Catholic League, St. Francis transitioned from the Metro Suburban Conference, marking a new chapter. “I’ve been fortunate,” McMillen expressed. “Having dedicated coaches and the right type of student has been crucial.” McMillen, an alumnus of IC Catholic, another small but competitive school in the western suburbs, seems to fit the coaching role perfectly.

St. Francis is among the larger private schools in the area with an enrollment of 684, compared to Montini’s 551 and IC Catholic’s 277. All are major contenders in state championships. Senior kicker Evan Kolinski highlights the distinct advantages of small-school life. “I have stronger bonds with my teammates,” Kolinski stated. “They’re in all my classes, so connections are deeper.”

St. Francis has achieved 14 state titles in girls volleyball and offers unique features like a black-and-blue turf field. Sponsored by Battle Sports, the team enjoys varied uniform combinations and helmet styles. “We’re like the Oregon of high school football,” McMillen mentioned. The school’s administration acknowledges the importance of athletics beyond football, seeing it as a key element.

Quarterback development has been fundamental to the team’s rise. Noteworthy alumni include Tommy Rittenhouse and Alessio Milivojevic, who have carried their skills to collegiate levels. In a recent matchup in New Palestine, starting quarterback Jadon Wilson’s injury was a setback for the team. Senior running back Tivias Caldwell Jr., however, delivered with an 80-yard touchdown run, illustrating his ongoing impact. “St. Francis was my choice due to its sense of brotherhood and tenacity,” Caldwell claimed.

The team demonstrates resilience beyond mere numbers, embodying the sentiment that “it only takes 11” on the field. Their journey is a testament to strategy, camaraderie, and leadership.