BC High School's new head football coach is a familiar face with ties to the local high school, college and pro scenes.
The Eagles athletic department announced Friday that Paul Zukauskas will be the new coach of the football program, replacing Ed Manti, who resigned in February after three seasons. BC High School is coming off a 6-4 season that ended in the Division 1 Elite Eight.
A 1997 graduate of BC High School, Zukauskas was a four-year starting offensive lineman at Boston University and played five years in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers before retiring in 2006. He most recently served as the head coach at Lawrence Academy. From 2011 to 2017. During that time, the Spartans went 44-13, winning four ISL championships and three NEPSAC titles.
“First, I would like to thank Tom Conley, Principal Lewis, and President Regan for giving me the opportunity to return to Boston College High School as head football coach and give back to the community that has shaped me,” Zukauskas said in a press release. mentioned in. . “This is a chance to inspire the next generation and pass on the lessons I learned on and off the field. I am committed to the tradition of BC high school football in the same way this school helped me realize my dreams.” I am excited to contribute, foster a culture of excellence, and help young people achieve their dreams.”
After a stellar college career, including becoming the first freshman in Boston University history to start on the offensive line, Zukauskas was selected by the Cleveland Browns with the 203rd overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft. An All-American in high school and an all-conference player in college, Zukauskas was inducted into the BC High Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Boston College Hall of Fame in 2016.
Originally from Weymouth, Mr Zukauskas now lives in Milton with his wife Claire and three children Molly, Maeve and Michael.
“We are excited to welcome Paul back to the BC High School community as head football coach,” said BC High School Athletic Director Tom Conley. “He is a proven and talented youth leader who is wholeheartedly invested in the development and coaching of student-athletes. Paul's experience at all levels of athletics ensures our nation's soccer players can learn from the best. You will be able to do it.”
“Based on the conversations I've had with Paul, it's clear that his values align with our vision for BC High School,” said BC High School Principal Adam Lewis. His belief in our mission to educate young people in this area allows Paul to make a significant contribution to the development of our students.”
Zukauskas is also the founder and president of WePlayed Sports, the leader in AI-driven highlight reels in college sports, the release said.
Also from the release:
“As a member of the Cleveland Browns, Mr. Zukauskas has supported projects such as building homes for Habitat for Humanity, building playgrounds for the United Way's Hometown Huddle program, and supporting Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital and Rainbow… We supported various local non-profit organizations, including visits to children's hospitals at Babies & Children's Hospital.”
“After the death of her mother in 2003, Zukauskas, her father, and her brother established the Ann Marie Zukauskas Fund. The fund was dedicated to Quincy public schools, specifically Broad Meadows Middle School, where Mrs. Zukauskas was principal. Provides additional funding for students. Zukauskas is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the educational, athletic, and social growth and development of middle school students of all races, creeds, and ethnic backgrounds throughout Dorchester. , and serves on the board of Project DEEP, the Dorchester Educational Enrichment Program.Community.”
“Paul proudly wore an Eagles uniform for eight years (four years at Cotter Field and four years at Alumni Stadium) and continued to embody Jesuit principles in his athletic and coaching pursuits,” BC High School said. said Grace Cotter Regan, Chairman of the Board. “BC High School football has a long and storied tradition, and I am confident that Paul will continue that tradition to the next generation of players. I look forward to the future of our program with Paul at the helm.” I am.”
