JACKSONVILLE, Ill.- The IC athletic department is participating in an Athletic Staff Spotlight series during the month of December. During this series, we will look to learn a little bit more about our athletic staff here at Illinois College. Our next spotlight is on our head football coach
Ray DeFrisco. DeFrisco enters his fifth year as the head coach of the Blueboys football program.
Where are you from? Hometown?
The Patch, Chicago IL
What kind of background do you have in your position? When did you start your journey to becoming a coach, Administrator or athletic trainer etc.?
Played football from 7th grade through college. After my college career ended, I began coaching at Saint Patrick High School my alma mater.
What is your favorite movie?
The Godfather
What is your favorite food?
Pasta
Where is your favorite place to eat out in Jacksonville, Illinois?
Little Mexico
What is your fondest memory competing as an athlete yourself?
Playing at Millikin. The offense transportation took a wrong turn and was not at the stadium on time, so the coaching staff started teaching myself (and the rest of the defensive line the offensive plays). Thankfully the offensive line made it just in time to kickoff. Literally running to the field while getting dressed. In that same game I recorded my career best in tackles. Majority of those tackles were towards the sidelines, and back in those days the field was crowned, drastically, so I was running downhill towards my tackles.
What is your fondest memory as a coach, trainer, administrator?
So many moments as a coach come to mind. However, my first win at Rose-Hulman was very sweet.
What are your favorite professional sports teams?
Bears, Blackhawks
What are some of your hobbies that you like to do in your spare time?
Spending time with the family.
What is your favorite book? Why?
Extreme Ownership. It provides leadership lessons that revolve around self-reflection. It was a key book for myself as I took over the football program in 2016.
What is your favorite holiday? Why?
4th of July. It's the summertime. It's the least hectic time of year for a football coach which makes it the easiest to put the work away and go on vacation or a staycation
What is a personal fun fact that not many people know about you?
I want to win the Jacksonville Cookoff Bragging Rights - 'People Choice' for my jalapeno poppers.
What is your favorite sports venue, professional or college?
Soldier Field
What do you like most about Illinois College? Why?
I love the people. I believe that is what makes Illinois College special
What is your ultimate goal as a member of the Illinois College Athletics staff?
My goal is to improve the quality of life for the people around me by serving their heart.
