The Final Season: Colton Zvonar and Lincoln-Way East’s Football Journey

Senior linebacker Colton Zvonar faces a pivotal season at Lincoln-Way East. This period marks the potential end for his father, Rob Zvonar, who has been the only head coach of the Griffins. It will certainly be Rob Zvonar’s last season coaching his sons. Colton, the youngest of three Zvonar brothers, shares his thoughts on this significant season.

It’s been three years but really my whole life in the making,” Colton reflected. “I’ve always known I’ll be the last one going out and he could possibly go out with me. It’s surreal that this year is here now. We aim to win a state championship, but we also want to savor each moment of our last season together.

Rob Zvonar has contemplated retiring once his sons complete their time with the team. However, he has not made a definitive decision. I haven’t dwelled on it or thought about it too much,” Rob mentioned. “I’ll make a decision once the season concludes. For now, we’re focused on the present and committed to this group of kids.

Colton, who has started for three years, is a vital leader for the Griffins, who ranked No. 3 in the Daily Southtown preseason rankings. Rob Zvonar described his son’s role, saying, He’s one of those guys with a lot of experience who has to play like a super senior and be the quarterback of the defense. He praised Colton’s leadership both on and off the field, acknowledging, He’s a coach’s kid who gets it, and it’s a blessing to push him in the areas of his game where he wants to get better.

Playing under his father has been a memorable experience for Colton, despite some challenges. He remarked, The best part is being around it for so long that he knows my football IQ is there, and if he makes a call, I can communicate it to everyone. The downside? Just getting yelled at sometimes. Despite this, Colton emphasized that their home life remains normal and unaffected by football intensity.

Senior defensive back Charlie Palmer, a Central Michigan recruit, attested to Colton’s deep understanding of the game. He knew the defense inside and out as a sophomore,” Palmer shared. “His dad has run this defense his whole life, so Colton’s knowledge stands out. Palmer regards Colton as the best leader, always ensuring his teammates understand their responsibilities.

Colton feels more robust entering his senior year. Reflecting on his past, he admitted, As a freshman and sophomore, I was a little soft. I think I’ve made significant physical improvements and gotten stronger.

Colton and Palmer form the core leaders of a relatively inexperienced team this year. While lacking the star power Frankfort teams previously had, Colton noted, We’re the underdog this year, and that’s not always bad. We’re going to be scrappy and fight for four quarters. He highlighted team chemistry as their main strength.

Should this be Rob Zvonar’s last season, it adds even more drive for the team. Colton acknowledged this, saying, It’s big motivation for all of us. With the great career he’s had, why not make it one more great year? We’re going to do our best.

Quick hits:

• Team: Lincoln-Way East
• 2025 record: 9-3
• Offensive leaders: Kaden Dangman (Junior, Lineman), Mason Halliman (Senior, Lineman), Drew Harper (Senior, Tight End), Jack Murphy (Junior, Receiver)
• Defensive leaders: Henry Bohms (Junior, Linebacker), Jacob Onik (Senior, Lineman), Charlie Palmer (Senior, Defensive Back), Colton Zvonar (Senior, Linebacker)
• X-factor: Jayden Cawthon (Senior, Receiver)