The worst kept secret in the area was officially announced on Tuesday.
St. Viator has hired Robbie Gould as its new football coach. Gould resigned as the Rolling Meadows coach on Dec. 3.
“I am both honored and excited to be joining Saint Viator High School, an institution with a storied tradition of excellence both on and off the field,” Gould said in a statement. “Creating a family atmosphere within our football program is of utmost importance to me. I believe in players supporting one another and striving for collective success. Our journey to greatness will begin together.”
Gould guided the Mustangs to the IHSA playoffs in his one season as coach, improving their record from two victories to five. Rolling Meadows lost to St. Charles North in the first round.
“I am excited to welcome Coach Gould and his family to Saint Viator,” Ryan Aiello, the St. Viator president, said in a statement. “When we began our search, we were looking for a coach who understands our Viatorian mission, who is able to navigate the landscape of high school football, and who possesses the necessary skills to successfully develop our players athletically, academically, and emotionally well into the future.”
St. Viator was 4-5 this season and did not qualify for the state playoffs. The Lions lost five of their last six games and coach David Archibald resigned after the season.
St. Viator’s starting quarterback was senior Cooper Kmet, the younger brother of Bears tight end Cole Kmet.
Just as Rolling Meadows did, St. Viator is hosting a press conference for the hire of its new coach. It’s Dec. 12 at 2:45 p.m.
Gould also released a statement after leaving Rolling Meadows:
‘‘I’m so proud of the progress we’ve made together at Rolling Meadows. Watching these athletes grow not just on the field but as individuals has been an honor. Although it’s time for me to move on, I leave knowing the foundation we’ve strengthened ensures the program is set for continued success.”
Rolling Meadows is currently searching for a new head coach.