Feb. 27, 2008

Engineering one of the most incredible single-season turnarounds in college football history, University of Illinois Head Football Coach Ron Zook was presented the Schutt Sports and American Football Monthly Coach of the Year today.

Julie and Ken Nimmons made the presentation to Zook. Julie is the Chairman of Schutt Sports and third generation owner of the company, while Ken is Executive Vice President of Product Development. Billy Rice, the National Football Promotions Manager for Schutt Sports, was also on hand.

"What coach Zook and his staff did this season was nothing short of remarkable," said Rice.

In just his third season with the Illini, Zook took his team from a 2-10 finish in 2006 all the way to Rose Bowl in 2007, finishing 9-4, including a stunning upset over No. 1 Ohio State. Illinois' berth in the Rose Bowl is the school's first bowl berth since 2001, and its first appearance in the Rose Bowl since 1984. Zook also guided the Illini to two other wins over ranked opponents, No. 5 Wisconsin and No. 21 Penn State. It is the first time since 2001 that Illinois has beaten three ranked opponents in a season and first time since 1963 that it has defeated two top-five teams in a campaign.

The award is one of three major honorees for Zook following the 2007 season. He was named Liberty Mutual National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year as well.

Schutt Sports and American Football Monthly have a long history for this prestigious award, going back to 1999. Schutt Sports, located in Litchfield, Illinois, is the world's leading manufacturer of football helmets and faceguards. American Football Monthly is the nation's leading football publication for coaches and annually awards its coveted Coach of the Year awards to all divisions, as well as Junior College and High School.