St. Ignatius Appoints Tom Kaufman as New Head Football Coach to Lead Team

St. Ignatius Appoints Tom Kaufman as New Football Coach

St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland has hired Tom Kaufman as its next head football coach. He will take over from Ryan Franzinger, aiming to restore the Wildcats to their former glory under legendary coach Chuck Kyle.

Kaufman brings a defensive coaching background like his predecessors but comes from Lake Catholic, not St. Ignatius. Alongside coaching, Kaufman will serve as assistant athletic director, supporting Rory Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick praised Kaufman’s vision for the program, highlighting his focus on competitive excellence, teamwork, discipline, and holistic player development. “He is committed to preparing our student-athletes not only for football but for lifelong success,” Fitzpatrick said.

Kaufman’s coaching career includes roles as linebackers coach at John Carroll University and defensive coordinator at both Kent State and John Carroll. Recently, he led Gilmour Academy to a school-record 12 wins and an Ohio regional final. He then coached at Marietta College, completing a 5-5 season.

The Wildcats face a rebuilding phase after struggling post-Kyle’s retirement. During Franzinger’s three years, St. Ignatius recorded just five wins and finished 1-10 in the last two seasons. Injuries and tough schedules contributed to the decline.

The school attracted over 80 coaching applicants from at least 30 states. Local candidates included Mike Elder from Avon, Nick Alexander from Walsh Jesuit, and Marty Gibbons from Lake Catholic. Elder chose to remain at Avon after consecutive state titles.

Kaufman expressed his enthusiasm about joining St. Ignatius, emphasizing a culture built on love, action, and connection. “These align closely with the Ignatian tradition of educating the whole person,” he said.

Regarding on-field strategy, Kaufman plans an explosive offense, aggressive defense, and disciplined special teams. He stressed competing with gratitude and representing the school with integrity and heart.

St. Ignatius will lose standout players Jayshon Thomas and Michael van der Oord to graduation but retains Division I prospect Trey Haddad at receiver. Sophomore Jacob Mikin and junior James Conrad are also expected to play key roles.

The school will officially introduce Kaufman at a press conference on Thursday at DiSanto Hall on campus.