Cullen Aven ’23

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Coach Fikac, the head football coach of our Strake Jesuit Crusaders, intends on capitalizing on his rudimentary season at the helm, using the lessons he’s learned in the past year to better his players both on and off the field. After a promising first season as head coach, Coach Fikac has grander plans for the team’s 2022 season, hoping to exceed all expectations and presumptions. 

This is a statement year for Coach Fikac, who is hoping to build upon his debut season in the head coaching position. As expected, Coach Fikac views the current season as the opportunity to create a great experience that will stick with his players for years to come.

“I’m excited for the guys who’ve been in the program for four years. They’re great leaders,” Coach Fikac said. 

Although Coach Fikac had been a part of the Strake Jesuit football coaching staff for over 10 years, the position of head coach was still one that required a learning curve.

“I didn’t know how much went into the role behind the scenes,” Coach Fikac said. “I had been a part of the system for years and thought things would sort of work themselves out with my help, but it really is a grind and a process.”

Though the new role was one that required growth, Coach Fikac embraced it. The lessons Coach Fikac learned as a first-year head coach allowed him to reflect and improve

“I got the opportunity to truly reflect on who I was and who I am as a coach. I thought about what I want to change about myself, and the program. I’m now getting more comfortable in the role,” Cosch Fikac said. “Honestly, I am a better father, husband, teacher, and coach because of this position. This role as head coach really does transcend both the coaches office and the field.”

The leadership of Coach Fikac has transcended just the coaching staff. The players are holding themselves accountable as well. Coach Fikac takes pride in seeing his players step up and be responsible, a true sign of brotherhood.

“There’s an accountability factor that has formed between these guys,” he said. “They’re starting to hold each other accountable, and that’s something you can’t teach.”