Drew Drzonek // 4.5 Star Kicker // Sandburg Football, C/O 2026 // 4.72 GPA, Elite Leg Strength
By: Jenny
Every Football Player Has A Story To Tell
As Sandburg High School gears up for a new football season under the leadership of a fresh head coach, one name stands out among the Eagles’ returning athletes—Class of 2026 kicker Drew Drzonek. A four-sport athlete with a relentless work ethic and an impressive 4.72 GPA, Drzonek is more than just a key contributor on special teams—he’s the embodiment of what it means to be a student-athlete.
Coming off a successful junior campaign that saw Sandburg make the playoffs for the second straight year, Drzonek reflects on the steady progress of the football program and his impact on the field.
“Our team made the playoffs again, and it was great to see how much better we’ve gotten each year,” he said. “Personally, I hit several field goals and was able to steal about six possessions just on kickoffs alone—those little moments really helped our team.”
One of Drzonek’s most unforgettable memories came earlier in his high school career, during his sophomore season.
“Week 4, getting called up to varsity for homecoming against Lockport—that was special,” he recalled. “We knew it would be a tough game, and after a hard-fought battle, we blocked a kick to win it. I scored 12 points with three field goals and three extra points and even had an onside kick we recovered. The energy, the crowd—it was an incredible experience.”
Now, with Coach Murphy stepping in to lead the program, Drzonek is more motivated than ever.
“I’m very excited for Coach Murphy,” he said. “He has a tremendous passion for the game and is creating an excellent culture for our team. He’s really building on the momentum Coach McAllister started, and it’s already making a difference.” Coach Murphy is equally excited about what Drzonek brings to the table. “Drew has been very consistent this offseason with his weight training and kicking training,” Murphy said. “High character kid, who gets it done in the classroom. Looking forward to seeing his growth in the kicking game this fall.”
That momentum has fueled high expectations for the upcoming season. Drzonek is confident in the team’s potential and believes the dedication shown during the offseason is a sign of what’s to come.
“We’ve been grinding in the mornings and after school, and I think this season we can take things to the next level,” he said. “I know all the experience and hard work I’ve put in will pay off, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.”
While kicking may sometimes appear to be a solitary role, Drzonek has found ways to stay connected with his teammates across all units. “People think being a kicker is boring at practice, but it actually gives me time to bond with players on both sides of the ball,” he explained. “After I get my reps in, I work with my snapper and holder, then spend time with the rest of the team—whether it’s during team dinners, talking at school, or grabbing food after games.”
Balancing four sports—football, baseball, soccer, and previously basketball—alongside honors classes is no easy feat. But for Drzonek, dedication is just as critical as time management.
“This is my first year not playing basketball, so I went from four sports to three, but I’m still competing in baseball this spring,” he said. “That gave me time to really focus on my key sports. I try to get as much schoolwork done during the day as possible. Sometimes that means annotating a book while taking an ice bath—but I chose this path, and I’ve learned to be efficient.”
Drzonek’s drive extends beyond high school athletics. He recently competed in the prestigious Chris Sailer Vegas XLV competition, finishing fourth in kickoffs among top national talent. Looking ahead, one of his top goals is to earn a coveted spot at the elite Chris Sailer Top 12 Camp—a national showcase for the top kickers in the country. Drzonek is ranked as a 4.5 star kicker.
“I want to prove I can compete at the highest level,” he said. “Coach Murphy has already been helping me get connected with schools, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
Ask Drzonek about his greatest strength, and he doesn’t hesitate: leg power.
“Ever since I was a kid playing soccer, I had a natural pop in my leg. I was always taking free kicks,” he said. “And all the lifting I’ve done this offseason has made me even more confident.”
But strength alone isn’t what separates elite kickers—it’s the mental game.
“Kicking is a high-pressure role. It’s just you and the moment, and you have to trust your preparation,” he said. “Whether it’s placing a kickoff or hitting a field goal, confidence and repetition are everything. I’ve learned to stay locked in and believe in my work.”
Drzonek credits his experience in other sports for helping him stay composed in pressure situations. “I’ve taken clutch free throws in a basketball championship, penalty kicks in soccer, and stood at bat in the bottom of the seventh with two outs,” he said. “Those moments have prepared me for the pressure I face on the football field.”
Despite his individual accomplishments, Drzonek remains a team-first player. When asked about teammates to watch this season, he quickly pointed to wide receiver Lucas Matykiewicz and quarterback Sean Ruisz.
“Lucas made some insane catches last year as a sophomore, and with his height and speed, plus Sean’s talent at QB, they could be a dynamic duo,” he said.
As for college programs looking for a dedicated, well-rounded athlete, Drzonek hopes his resume speaks for itself. “I want colleges to know I’m driven. There was a stretch where I was doing five workouts a day while keeping a 4.72 GPA and still getting enough sleep,” he said. “I’m committed to my sports, my academics, and my future. And I couldn’t have done any of it without the support of my parents—they’ve always pushed me to be my best.”
With a powerful leg, sharp focus, and unshakeable work ethic, Drew Drzonek is poised for a standout senior season—and a bright future beyond Sandburg High School.
Deep Dish Football Is Just Not About Recruiting
But About The Love Of The Game Of IHSA Football
RESPECT THE GAME