In his first year as head coach of the Bellerose Bulldogs, Zach Wilkie found tremendous success both on and off the football field.
The Bulldogs won the 2024 Metro Edmonton Miles Division championship, and Wilkie was just named Alberta 4A Coach of the Year for 2024.
The quick success wasn’t a surprise to Wilkie, who grew up four blocks from Bellerose Composite High School.
“Bellerose is a special high school football program, it’s the premier program in St. Albert,” said Wilkie. “We’re not going to recruit on empty promises; the kids that choose to play for Bellerose get it. You can see the culture in the hallways.”
Wilkie was quick to give credit to his players.
“Our players are not only outstanding football players, but unbelievable young men who take pride in doing everything the right way,” said Wilkie.
The impact from the Bellerose players wasn’t just felt on the football field, but also in their head coach.
“This group gave me back a passion, and a spark that I honestly thought I had lost,” said Wilkie. “They impacted me more than I think any of them will ever know. I can’t thank Bellerose enough.”
Last week Football Alberta handed out its awards for the 2024 season, choosing Wilkie as the 4A Coach of the Year for 2024.
“It’s awesome, and humbling,” said Wilkie. “I’m not one to hang a bunch of trophies in the office, but it’s been a cool opportunity to force myself to slow down, and reflect on my journey.”
“It was great to get a ton of messages from people who have been a part of my life, and career.”
For the upcoming season Wilkie will be moving on from the Bellerose program to be both the offensive coordinator, and the strength and conditioning coach for the Edmonton Huskies of the CJFL.
“I love Bulldogs football, and will continue to support them in any role I can as they gear up for another championship run in 2025,” said Wilkie.
