Harding named Kansas City Chiefs Coach of the Week

Louisburg head football coach Drew Harding was named the Kansas City Chiefs Coach of the Week on Wednesday and was presented the award by Chiefs Hall of Famer, Gary Spani.

After starting the season 2-0, including a win over rival Paola last week, Louisburg head football coach Drew Harding saw a big honor come his way.

Harding was named as the Kansas City Chiefs Coach of the Week for week two following the Wildcats’ 35-20 victory over Paola. 

Kansas City Chief Hall of Famer Gary Spani presented Harding with his award prior to practice Wednesday in front of his players and coaching staff. The Chiefs partner with PrepsKC to honor a Missouri and Kansas coach each week.

“This is definitely a program wide award,” Harding said. “The players are the ones on the field executing the game plan and assistant coaches are implementing the game plan. Those things have a far greater impact than anything I do individually.

“As a program we are excited to receive the award. It is a result of everyone’s hard work within the program and we are excited to receive this award to showcase everyone’s efforts to start the season. Thank you to PrepsKC and the Kansas City Chiefs for their community involvement and supporting high school football.”

Harding, who is in his second year as head coach of the Wildcats, also won the award last season during their run to an undefeated Frontier League title.

As a result of this honor, Louisburg High School will receive a $500 grant from the Hunt Family Foundation. Additionally, Harding was presented a congratulatory commemorative Super Bowl LVII coin and a certificate recognizing his selection. 

Harding is now eligible for the Eric Driskell Coach of the Year Award, which will be voted on later this fall. The Eric Driskell Coach of the Year Award is selected by a panel comprised of the Missouri and Kansas Boards from the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association.

In its 27th season, the 2023 High School Coach of the Week is a joint initiative of the Kansas City Chiefs and the National Football League. This program is designed to recognize and reward Kansas City area high school coaches for superior performance on a weekly basis while honoring individuals who are shaping today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.