Robbie Gould leaves Rolling Meadows after one year; Notre Dame's Mike Hennessey retires after 38
Two prominent high school football coaches stepped down from their jobs Tuesday. Former Bears kicker Robbie Gould left Rolling Meadows after only one season, and Mike Hennessey announced his retirement from Notre Dame after 38 years.
Gould guided the Mustangs to the IHSA playoffs this season, improving their record from two victories to five. Rolling Meadows lost to St. Charles North in the first round.
‘‘I’m so proud of the progress we’ve made together at Rolling Meadows,’’ Gould said in a statement. ‘‘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 said its search for a new coach will begin immediately.
Hennessey led Notre Dame to 20 appearances in the IHSA playoffs, two conference championships and a runner-up finish in Class 5A in 1989.
‘‘I was lucky to come to Notre Dame to coach football, and I found so much more,’’ Hennessey said. ‘‘Through my work, I have interacted with thousands of people who have enhanced my life and the lives of my family. They need to be thanked for making all of this such a tremendous time and experience.’’
Hennessey led the Dons to the Prep Bowl title in 2021 and to eight or more victories eight times. They won a school-record 11 games in 1989 and had 10 victories in 2018.
‘‘No one has been a part of the fabric of Notre Dame over the past 38 years more than Mike Hennessey,’’ Notre Dame principal Dan Tully said. ‘‘Players wanted to play for him, and parents wanted their sons to be coached by him. His humility and selflessness are unmatched. It has been a privilege to watch him give everything he has for his players and his coaches from early each morning to late each night. Thousands of Dons, teachers, staff, coaches and families have been impacted by everything he has done for Notre Dame.’’