Lynch's Shocking Coach of the Year Win: What This Means for College Football's Future!

In the competitive arena of high school football, the Mount Carmel Caravan has established a legacy of excellence that continues to thrive under the leadership of head coach Jordan Lynch, a 2009 alumnus of the school. Recently, Lynch's remarkable contributions were recognized as he was named the Navy All-American Bowl Coach of the Year, a prestigious national accolade signifying him as one of the top high school coaches in the country. Furthermore, he earned a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame, making him only the third player in Northern Illinois University (NIU) history to receive this honor, and he achieved this in his first year of eligibility.

The Navy All-American Bowl Coach of the Year award is presented annually to recognize a coach whose program shows sustained achievement and effective player development. Under Lynch's guidance, the Caravan has secured an impressive five state championships in just eight years, including four consecutive titles. Before returning to Mount Carmel as head coach, Lynch had an illustrious collegiate career at NIU, where he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2013 and led the Huskies to their first major BCS bowl appearance. His professional career includes time with the Chicago Bears and a pivotal role in securing a victory for the Edmonton Eskimos in the 2015 Grey Cup of the Canadian Football League.

In his own words, Lynch expressed humility regarding the recognition, stating, “It was a great honor and accomplishment. It was exciting, all the hard work throughout the years. It’s not only on myself, but for Mount Carmel, all the hard work, sacrifice, and all the coaches around me. It is a great honor for all of us.” This sentiment reflects Lynch's understanding that his achievements are deeply intertwined with the traditions and successes of the Mount Carmel program.

“It’s national exposure for the program,” Lynch added. “It’s just to show that Mount Carmel has always been one of the top programs in the nation. It goes years back, way before myself, and we’re still here.” His emphasis on teamwork is evident as he insists that while his name may be on the award, it is a recognition for the entire team and community surrounding the program.

Only five days after receiving the Coach of the Year honor, Lynch learned of his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. “It’s a surreal feeling,” he commented. “To know that of all the players in the history of college football that just over 1,000 have been selected to the NFF College Football Hall of Fame, and to be just the second NIU player named, it’s obviously a great honor. To have all the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication recognized is awesome.”

Mount Carmel’s Athletic Director, Phil Segroves, underscored the significance of Lynch’s accolades, stating, “It’s just so special as the AD to see those accolades come for someone who’s worked so hard. I always say that Coach Lynch is one of the top three hardest workers I’ve ever coached.” Segroves, who has been with the school for nearly 30 years, recalls Lynch's tireless work ethic even during his time as a student-athlete. “After a workout and having a full practice, Coach Lynch would be at the gym getting a second workout in every single night,” Segroves said, illustrating Lynch’s commitment to excellence.

While championships remain a central goal for the Caravan, Lynch emphasizes a broader mission, focusing on personal growth and character development. “Wins and losses are great, but where I get the most satisfaction is just watching the kids come in freshman year, and how they change when they’re seniors,” he shared. “Being a good person, being a good teammate, being a good student is the main goal here.” This holistic approach to coaching has not only cultivated talent on the field but has also fostered strong values among his players.

As the Mount Carmel program continues to thrive, Lynch maintains a straightforward philosophy. “We talk about the process and take it one day at a time,” he noted. “That’s when the overall wins add up, and the state championships add up.” With a blend of dedication, humility, and a commitment to player development, Coach Jordan Lynch is not just shaping athletes; he is nurturing young men who will carry the lessons learned on the field into their future endeavors.