West Cook News

Tim Racki, the head football coach at Nazareth Academy, recently sat down with former player Louie Stec on Louie Stec’s Simple Podcast to discuss his journey as both a player and a coach. Racki, who has amassed an impressive 10 state championships throughout his career—four at Addison Driscoll High School and six at Nazareth Academy—shared insights into the foundations of his success. Most recently, Racki’s Nazareth Academy team secured the school’s first-ever three-peat, with their latest state title win in 2024.

Racki’s accomplishments on the field have made him one of the most successful high school football coaches in Illinois, but his legacy goes beyond the trophies. His emphasis on team culture and leadership has shaped not only championship teams but also young men who carry those lessons throughout their lives.

A Football Journey That Began in High School

Racki’s path to coaching greatness began as a high school player at Driscoll Catholic High School, where he played linebacker and fullback. Though he initially attended Driscoll begrudgingly—his friends convinced him to go there instead of his local high school—it was there that his passion for football truly took root.

“I begged my mom to let me play youth football in sixth grade because my older brother had a bad experience with the sport. But I was competitive, and once I got on the field, I realized how much I loved it,” Racki reflected.

Racki’s high school career, while not without its challenges, taught him invaluable leadership lessons. Despite the ups and downs, including a senior season where off-field distractions derailed the team’s potential, Racki learned that success in football was more than just about talent—it was about commitment to the team and leadership from within.

“I wanted to be on a great football team, not just a talented one,” Racki shared. “That mindset stuck with me throughout my career, and it’s something I emphasize with my players today.”

College Football: Lessons in Resilience

After high school, Racki walked on at Southern Illinois University (SIU) to continue his football career. It was at SIU that he learned the tough realities of college football. The competition was fierce, and his early years were filled with challenges, including a difficult transition from linebacker to safety and a career-changing injury.

“My first year was the toughest year of football in my entire life,” Racki said. “But it turned out to be the best. I had to get faster, stronger, and I learned the mental toughness required to succeed.”

Racki’s college years were marked by perseverance. After working tirelessly to improve his skills, he earned a scholarship, only to have it pulled away when the coaching staff changed. He went on to face more adversity, including a torn hamstring that sidelined him during his junior year. However, these struggles would later inform his coaching style and help him instill a sense of resilience and determination in his players.

Building Championship Teams at Nazareth Academy

When asked about the key to his long-standing success, Racki pointed to one central theme: team culture. It’s not just about the X’s and O’s; it’s about creating an environment where players feel connected, supported, and challenged to be their best both on and off the field.

“Building team culture is the catalyst for success,” Racki explained. “I don’t just look at what worked before. I focus on what this team needs right now. Each team is different, and I immerse myself in understanding their unique dynamics and needs. It’s about creating an environment where every player feels valued, supported, and held accountable.”

Racki’s approach goes beyond football strategy. He focuses on developing young men who understand the value of discipline, hard work, and teamwork—principles that have helped his teams consistently perform at the highest level.

“I don’t just want to win games. I want to help these players grow into better men,” Racki said.

The Legacy of Leadership

As a coach, Tim Racki has built more than just a championship-winning program—he’s cultivated a lasting impact on his players. His leadership and commitment to building a positive, team-oriented culture have shaped the lives of countless young athletes. Racki’s focus on developing the person, not just the player, has been a key factor in his long-term success.

“I’m 57 now, and I’ve started to think more long-term about the future,” Racki shared. “I’m blessed to be able to coach my youngest son, Nick, next season. But I also want to explore what comes next. I’ve been reflecting a lot lately, thinking about how I can share the lessons I’ve learned throughout my career, whether it’s through writing or other opportunities.”

Even with all his accomplishments, Coach Racki continues to evolve and challenge himself. His vision for the future goes beyond football—he’s looking at ways to share his journey and the leadership lessons he’s learned with others, whether through writing or speaking engagements.

Looking Toward the Future

As Coach Racki prepares for the next chapter of his coaching career, his focus remains on developing teams that embody the core values he’s instilled over the years: resilience, discipline, and commitment to each other. His legacy, however, is not just about the wins—it’s about the culture of leadership he’s built, the relationships he’s fostered, and the lasting impact he’s had on the lives of his players.

Coach Racki’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of building something bigger than just a team. It’s a journey that continues to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike.

Louie Stec, a former player under Coach Racki at Nazareth Academy and host of Louie Stec’s Simple Podcast, continues to share his experiences and insights from the world of sports and beyond.