Glenbrook North's Purdy, Glenbard West's Zydlo garner Bears' awards

The Chicago Bears announced Thursday that Matt Purdy of Glenbrook North has been named the Chicago Bears High School "Coach of the Week" for Week 1, and running back Jimmy Zydlo of Glenbard West was named the Chicago Bears "High School All-Star."

In his second year as head coach for Glenbrook North, Purdy has faced not only the same COVID-related challenges as high school teams across the country, but also the sudden passing of the Spartans' quarterback, Dylan Buckner, who died by suicide in January. Purdy called on parents and students to come together and support one another after the loss of "an amazing leader, friend, dedicated student and athlete." Under his leadership, the team played their first game of the season last Friday against Evanston. Although the Spartans fell 48-6, Purdy tweeted a signed photo given to him by the Evanston team and shared that football is more than what happens on the field - it's a brotherhood and bond that lasts forever.

Glenbrook North will play at Glenbrook South (0-1) on Friday.

If you know someone in crisis call the National Suicide Prevention Lifelineat 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis

Text Line (text HELLO to741741).

•As Zydlo headed into his senior year this past summer, he was diagnosed with Stage 3A Hodgkin lymphoma and underwent 12 rounds of chemotherapy before going into remission in January. Despite the many obstacles Zydlo faced, he returned to football and helped lead Glenbard West to a 56-0 win at Addison Trail on Friday by scoring the team's first touchdown of the season. York (1-0) will host Glenbard West on Friday.

The Bears will make a $2,000 donation to the Glenbrook North football program and direct a $500 donation to the youth football program of Zydlo's choice.