Taft High School Football: The Pride of Chicago’s Northwest Side

In the heart of Chicago’s Northwest Side, Taft High School football is more than a game—it’s a unifying force. At 6530 W Bryn Mawr Ave, the Eagles soar under the Friday night lights, carrying the hopes of Norwood Park, Edison Park, and beyond. With a legacy of resilience, a knack for producing talent, and a community that rallies like few others, Taft football is a Chicago Public Schools (CPS) gem. This 1,600-word deep dive explores Taft’s storied history, dissects their 2024 season, spotlights the players and coaches driving the charge, and reveals why the Eagles are a force in Illinois’ ultra-competitive 8A division. Buckle up for a journey into the heart of Taft football.

What Makes Taft Football Unique?

Illinois is a football hotbed, and Taft High School holds its own in the state’s toughest 8A class. Nestled in the tight-knit neighborhoods of Chicago’s Northwest Side, the Eagles embody grit, heart, and hometown pride. Their games at Hanson Stadium aren’t just contests—they’re events, drawing thousands of fans decked in blue and silver. What sets Taft apart? It’s the blend of a hard-nosed work ethic, a coaching staff that molds raw talent into disciplined athletes, and a community that treats every snap like a family affair.

Taft’s program thrives on its ability to compete against Chicago’s best while fostering academic excellence through its International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The Eagles don’t just chase wins—they build character, sending players to college and leaving a lasting mark on the city.

Taft High School Football: The Essentials

Here’s the rundown on the Taft Eagles:

This snapshot is just the start—let’s dive deeper.

A Storied Past: Taft Football’s History

Taft High School, founded in 1939, has a football program as old as the school itself. Named after President William Howard Taft, the Eagles took flight in the Chicago Public League, battling urban powerhouses in a city where sports are a way of life. Early decades were about building identity, with modest success against rivals like Lane Tech.

The program hit its stride in the 2000s, leveraging CPS’s shift to attract neighborhood talent with programs like the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) and IB. While Taft hasn’t claimed an IHSA state title, they’ve been a playoff regular, with deep runs showcasing their ability to hang with Illinois’ elite. The 2010s saw Taft emerge as a 7A and 8A contender, with disciplined defenses and explosive offenses.

Key Moments in Taft History

• 2001-2014: Taft’s NJROTC unit earns Distinguished Unit awards, reflecting the discipline that spills onto the gridiron.

• 2018: A 9-2 season under Coach John Tsarouchas signals Taft’s rise in 8A.

• 2023: The Eagles go 8-3, falling in the 8A playoffs but cementing their status as a CPS force.

Taft’s history is one of steady growth, with each era adding to the program’s pride.

The 2024 Season: Triumphs and Trials

The 2024 season was a testament to Taft’s resilience. Finishing 7-3, the Eagles dominated the Chicago Public League’s Red-North/West division, going 5-0 in conference play. Their high-octane offense and stingy defense racked up wins against city rivals, but a 37-6 loss to Minooka in the IHSA 8A playoffs on November 1, 2024, ended their postseason hopes.

2024 Season Match Scores

Here’s Taft’s 2024 game-by-game breakdown:

Standout Games of 2024

• Oct 12 vs. Lane Tech: A 14-7 grinder against their archrival showcased Taft’s clutch defense.

• Oct 25 vs. Whitney Young: A 28-7 loss exposed offensive struggles against top-tier foes, a lesson for 2025.

• Nov 1 vs. Minooka: The playoff loss highlighted the gap between Taft and 8A’s elite, fueling offseason motivation.

Taft’s No. 65 state ranking reflects a strong but unfinished campaign.

The Stars of Taft Football

Taft’s roster is packed with talent, from seniors eyeing college to underclassmen making waves.

• K. Wierzchowiak (Senior, MLB/TE)
  2024 Stats: Led team in tackles, versatile two-way player.
  Impact: A vocal leader whose instincts anchor the defense. College scouts are watching.

• D. McFadden (Junior, LB/DE/RB)
  2024 Stats: Explosive pass-rusher with 8 sacks, also a bruising runner.
  Future: A multi-positional star with D1 potential.

• Ja’dan Keiler (Senior)
  2024 Stats: Key contributor on both sides of the ball.
  Legacy: Embodies Taft’s work ethic, inspiring younger Eagles.

These players, backed by a deep roster, keep Taft in the conversation.

Taft’s Practice Schedule: Building Champions

Taft’s success is forged in sweat. Here’s their weekly grind:

Aligned with IHSA rules, this regimen builds physical and mental toughness.

How Taft Prepares for Glory

Taft’s formula is simple but relentless: coaching, training, and community.

Coaching Excellence

Head Coach Zach Elder brings energy and strategy, emphasizing discipline and adaptability. His staff, including assistants like Juan Salinas, instills a pro-style approach, preparing players for college.

Training That Delivers

• Offseason: Strength training at Taft’s state-of-the-art weight room starts in June.

• In-Season: Daily practices hone precision, from route-running to blitz packages.

• Film Study: Hours analyzing opponents give Taft a tactical edge.

Community Passion

Hanson Stadium pulses with 4,000+ fans per game. The Taft Football Family Booster Club, a 501c3, funds equipment and travel, ensuring no player is left behind. Pre-game tailgates and pep rallies amplify the vibe.

Taft’s Fiercest Rivalries

Rivalries fuel Taft’s fire:

• Taft vs. Lane Tech
  2024 Result: 14-7 win, a defensive masterpiece. Why It Matters: A Northwest Side showdown for city bragging rights.

• Taft vs. Whitney Young
  History: The 28-7 loss in 2024 stings, but Taft’s 2023 win keeps it close. Edge: Whitney Young’s speed tests Taft’s physicality.

How Fans Can Stay Connected

Follow the Eagles with ease:

• Live Streams: NFHS Network or Hudl Fan.

• Scores: MaxPreps or TaftAthletics.com.

• Social: X posts from @TaftEaglesFB for real-time updates.

Tips for Aspiring Taft Players

Dream of wearing blue and silver? Here’s how:

• Start Early: Play at local middle schools like Oriole Park.

• Stay Eligible: Maintain a 2.0 GPA for CPS sports.

• Get Noticed: Attend Taft’s summer camps and 7-on-7 events.

Why Taft Football Matters

Taft football is a beacon for Chicago’s Northwest Side. It’s where kids learn resilience, communities unite, and dreams take flight. From alumni like Jim Grabowski (NFL) to current stars eyeing college, Taft’s impact transcends the scoreboard.

Fun Fact

Taft’s IB program, the largest in Illinois, shapes scholar-athletes who excel on and off the field.

See Also: fballquery.com

Conclusion

The 2024 season didn’t end with a trophy, but Taft High School football’s spirit is unbreakable. With stars like D. McFadden, a savvy coach in Zach Elder, and a community that roars, the Eagles are poised for bigger things. They’re not just a team—they’re a legacy. Catch their next chapter at Hanson Stadium or follow online. Go Eagles!