Through the "Coach of the Week" and "Bears High School All-Star" programs, the Chicago Bears honor some of Illinois' top high school football coaches and players each season. Both programs run for nine weeks, with deserving high school coaches and players being nominated by a panel of local prep authorities. The 2015 "Coach of the Week" and "Bears High School All-Star" honorees will be invited to the Bears vs. Redskins game on Sunday, December 13 at Soldier Field.
The Chicago Bears "Coach of the Week" program concluded its 20th season in 2015. The program honors outstanding Illinois high school coaches who develop players' football skills and knowledge, character, leadership, discipline and teamwork abilities. Other criteria considered include unique coaching methodology, school and community support, volunteerism and, most importantly, contributions to players' long-term success on and off the field. The Chicago Bears will make a $1,500 contribution to the football program at each winning coach's school. The Chicago Bears "Coach of the Week" program is brought to you by FOX 32 Chicago. The 2015 "Coach of the Week" honorees include:
- Tim Thornton, Peoria High School
- Mike Papoccia, Newman Central Catholic High School
- Larry Calhoun, Mundelein High School
- John Holocek, Loyola Academy
- John Hart, Huntley High School
- Brian Badke, Brother Rice High School
- George Czart, Lincoln-Way North High School
- Dennis Piron, Batavia High School
- Michael Hennessey, Notre Dame College Prep
Each week for nine weeks, an outstanding high school football player was selected through the "Bears High School All-Stars" program. Each of the nine players will have the opportunity to direct a $500 monetary donation to the youth football program of his choice. The nomination criteria for the program include on-field performance, community involvement and good sportsmanship. The 2015 "Bears High School All-Star" honorees include:
- James Robinson, Rockford Lutheran High School
- Michael Johnson, Joliet Catholic Academy
- Jacob Mitchell, Metamora High School
- Emitt Peisert, Marian Central Catholic High School
- Riley Lees, Libertyville High School
- Alfonzo Lambert, Rockford Auburn High School
- Alex Martinez, St. Laurence High School
- Mitch Fairfield, Normal West High School
- Sam Sergent, Sacred Heart-Griffin High School
