District 88 names new head football coach at Addison Trail

Pictured is Chris Bazant, who has been named as Addison Trail's new head football coach.

A new head coach will lead the Addison Trail Football Team starting on Aug. 3, but it will be a familiar face to the school and community.

During its Jan. 13 meeting, the District 88 Board of Education approved the administration’s recommendation to name Chris Bazant as the new head football coach for the Blazers. Bazant will succeed Paul Parpet Jr. in that position, who stepped down in November after 10 years at the helm and 26 years in the program. Addison Trail thanks Parpet Jr. for his years of service and dedication to the team.

“Football builds values, and I want to develop character student-athletes who will be leaders in the classroom and on the field,” Bazant said. “It’s about building relationships. My philosophy is work hard, do things the right way and be a good person. Winning is the goal, but it’s not the focus. Success is a byproduct of following the process and implementing those other steps.”

Football has been part of Bazant’s life since he joined the sport in sixth grade. He was a linebacker at Victor J. Andrew High School and North Central College and has 14 years of coaching experience in a variety of positions at York High School, Mattoon High School and Addison Trail (where he has served as a varsity assistant coach since 2012).

“Football is one of the most important things in my life,” Bazant said. “It teaches you about preparation, work ethic, teamwork and how to overcome adversity and persevere over challenges.”

Bazant earned his bachelor’s degree in social science/social studies, with a minor in education, from North Central College. He received his master’s degree in teaching and learning, with endorsements in ESL and psychology, from University of St. Francis. He lives in Lockport with his wife, Mallory, and their three daughters.

Bazant has taught at Addison Trail since 2012 and has worked with an array of students. He currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level psychology and said his time in the classroom is what inspired him to become head coach of the football team.

“Addison Trail truly is a special place,” Bazant said. “We have great kids. I believe in them, and that’s why I took this position. I’m really looking forward to working with them and getting started.”

Addison Trail Athletic Director Matt Thompson said he’s excited to have Bazant step into this new role.

“Bazant’s experience as a football player and as a coach, along with the relationships and level of trust he has developed with our students, will be an asset to the team,” Thompson said. “We know he will continue the pride, tradition and excellence of Addison Trail athletics.”