Sports
Chicago Bears Honor GBN Football Coach Matt Purdy
The second-year varsity coach was named "Coach of the Week" and the Bears made a $2,000 contribution to the Spartans' program.
NORTHBROOK, IL — Though his team may have kicked off the season with a tough loss, it was still a winning week for Matt Purdy, Glenbrook North High School varsity football coach, and his program. Purdy, in his second year at the helm for the Spartans, was named "Coach of the Week" by the Chicago Bears Football Club.
The Bears will make a $2,000 donation to the Glenbrook North football program in honor of the recognition.
Today I was blessed to be recognized as the @BearsOutreach Coach of the week. I want to thank the @ChicagoBears and those who nominated me for this honor. Lastly I want to thank my staff for being some of the best coaches in the country. Their passion for coaching is 2nd to none.
— Matt Purdy (@MattPurdyOLC) March 26, 2021
In a news release regarding the honor, the Bears noted that "Purdy has faced not only the same COVID-related challenges as high school teams across the country, but also the sudden passing of their quarterback, Dylan Buckner; the 18-year-old died by suicide in January after battling depression."
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The Bears said that Purdy called on parents and students to come together and support one another after the loss of "an amazing leader, friend, dedicated student and athlete."
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In the season-opener March 19, the Spartans lost to Evanston Township, 48-6, but it was a gesture after the game that may have been more note-worthy when the opposing team presented Purdy with a signed photo of Buckner.
Thank you to the players and coaches from the @ETHSports Var FB team for this amazing photo remembering @dbuckner_07. We may have battled on the field but you have shown @GBN_Football that it’s more then what happens on the field. It’s a brotherhood and a bond that lasts 4 ever. pic.twitter.com/EiNh0nm1o4
— Matt Purdy (@MattPurdyOLC) March 20, 2021
Glenbrook North (0-1) returns to the gridiron Friday night with a 7 p.m. kickoff at Glenbrook South (0-1).
If you know someone in crisis call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741).
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