The Chicago Bears have named Darren Sunkett, head coach of East St. Louis High School, as the 2024 Chicago Bears High School Boys Football Coach of the Year, presented by Athletico Physical Therapy. The award recognizes coaches who demonstrate leadership, mentorship and a commitment to their communities, values that Coach Sunkett has exemplified throughout his career. In recognition of his impact on the East St. Louis football program, the Bears will make a $2,000 donation to support the school’s football program.
Under Coach Darren Sunkett’s leadership, East St. Louis High School has become one of the most successful high school football programs in Illinois. Since becoming head coach in the early 2000s, Sunkett has led the East St. Louis Flyers to five state championships, including the 2024 Class 6A title. The Flyers have reached the state championship game four consecutive times and have claimed three state titles in the last five seasons. The Flyers finished the 2024 season with a 13-1 record, outscoring playoff opponents 221-14.
Known for preparation, discipline and execution, Coach Sunkett’s teams are consistently among the best in the state. His 2024 squad embodied these qualities with a stifling defense and explosive offense. Sunkett’s emphasis on playing a national schedule further exemplifies his "Commitment to Excellence." The Flyers regularly faced top programs from across the country, providing players with invaluable experience and exposure to college recruiters.
With a career spanning over 23 years at East St. Louis, Coach Sunkett’s record includes more than 230 wins, reflecting a .78 winning percentage. His leadership extends beyond Illinois, as he previously won a state championship in Missouri with Riverview Gardens in 1998. His influence has made the East St. Louis Flyers a force in Illinois and nationally, with the team being ranked in the Top 25 nationally on multiple occasions.
Coach Sunkett’s impact is evident in the success of his former players, many of whom have gone on to compete at the collegiate and professional levels. This includes NFL safety Antonio Johnson (Jacksonville Jaguars) and guard Lester Cotton (New England Patriots), as well as CFL defensive lineman Terry Beckner Jr. (Calgary Stampeders) and UFL wide receiver Jeff Thomas (St. Louis Battlehawks). Additionally, 47 of his former players are currently playing collegiate football at various levels across the country, including standout wide receiver Luther Burden III at the University of Missouri, who is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the country.
"Darren Sunkett has built one of the most consistent and respected programs in Illinois high school football," said Gustavo Silva, Chicago Bears Manager of Youth and High School Football. "For over 20 years, he’s developed a culture centered on discipline, preparation and opportunity, helping his players achieve success on the field and beyond. His commitment is reflected in the number of players who have gone on to play at the college and professional levels. We’re proud to recognize him for the lasting impact he’s had on his team, his school and his community.”
Coach Sunkett’s program emphasizes not only athletic excellence but also academic achievement. His focus on holistic player development has led to academic recognition for players like Purdue recruits Jesse Watson and Smiley Bradford, who were acknowledged for their academic achievements during the first semester of this school year. His commitment to his players’ growth as students, athletes and community members has had a lasting impact on the East St. Louis community.
Additionally, Sunkett’s contributions to high school football were further recognized when he was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame earlier this year. The honor highlighted his career accomplishments and lasting impact on the sport. Earlier this season, he was also recognized as a Chicago Bears High School Coach of the Week during Week 1 of the IHSA regular season, following the Flyers' 34-7 win over Loyola Academy, the defending 8A state champions. In that game, Coach Sunkett’s team held Loyola to under 100 yards of total offense, ending Loyola’s 16-game win streak.
His leadership has built East St. Louis High School into a national powerhouse while also prioritizing the growth and development of student-athletes. His selection as the 2024 Chicago Bears High School Boys Football Coach of the Year underscores the vital role that coaches play in shaping future leaders on and off the field.
