The Kansas City Chiefs have announced the coaches of the week. Grandview coach Jeremie Picard and Olathe North coach Chris McCartney are this week’s winners.
Grandview won its first district title since 2003 with a 14-3 win over Lincoln College Prep. The Bulldogs now take on Smithville for a chance to advance to the Missouri Class 4 semifinals for the first time since 1984. Picard said the award was for everyone in the program.
“Any accolade presented to me is a reflection of the efforts of us all,” Picard said. “To me, an award like this recognizes the efforts of our entire staff, every player, and everyone who's supported us - parents, cheerleaders, alumni, admin and more. It has been a trying year for all of the obvious reasons and more, and we are beyond proud of this group. On a personal note as a rabid CHIEFS fan, it's uniquely special and a most welcomed honor.”
Olathe North is back in the Kansas Class 6A semifinals for the third straight year after a 28-21 win over Blue Valley. The Eagles lost several key contributors off last year’s state runner-up squad but have still gone 8-1 with a chance to go back to the state championship game for the second straight year. McCarthy said his program is responsible for any honor he receives.
“It is a great tribute to our players, coaching staff and community for us to receive this award from the Chiefs,” McCartney said. “This year’s team has done a tremendous job of just taking what they have been given and made the most of it. No excuses, no complaining, just striving to get better. We are super proud of how resilient they have been.”
In its 24th season, the 2020 High School Coach of the Week is a joint initiative of the Kansas City Chiefs and the National Football League. This program is designed to recognize and reward Kansas City area high school coaches for superior performance on a weekly basis while honoring individuals who are shaping today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.
