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As the Super Bowl looms closer, excitement builds among football enthusiasts eagerly anticipating Sunday’s grand showdown. This year’s event is particularly special for Chicago area fans, as local talent is set to represent both the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks on the field.
One player set to take the stage for the Patriots is Robert Spillane, a name familiar to many in Oak Park. Spillane, who honed his skills at Fenwick High School, will be playing a pivotal role in Super Bowl LX. His connection to the school runs deep, not only through his own achievements but also via his grandfather’s legacy. The school proudly displays Johnny Lattner’s Heisman Trophy in its lobby, a testament to the family’s rich football heritage.
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During his time at Fenwick, Spillane showcased versatility and talent, excelling as a running back among other positions. His grandfather, Johnny Lattner, also carved out a legacy at the school, graduating in 1950 before making his own mark in the Super Bowl. The continuation of this family tradition adds an extra layer of nostalgia and pride for the community.
Fenwick’s athletic director, Scott Thies, reflects on Spillane’s journey with admiration. “He loved football so much,” Thies remarked. “He was willing to do whatever it took to get him where he wanted to be, and certainly it worked out really well for him.” Such dedication and passion have undeniably paved the way for Spillane’s success, as he prepares to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps on the grandest stage of them all.
“He loved football so much,” Fenwick athletic director Scott Thies said. “He was willing to do whatever it took to get him where he wanted to be, and certainly it worked out really well for him.”
Spillane has strong ties to the school, even giving the commencement address at graduation a couple of years ago.
“It’s a great resource for our kids to learn from,” Fenwick head football coach Matt Battaglia said.
Spillane is one of several athletes from the Chicago area who will play in the big game Sunday. Rylie Mills of the Seahawks graduated from Lake Forest High School in 2020. Julian Love of the Seahawks grew up in Logan Square and played football at Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park. He’s proud of his Chicago roots.
“When you play somebody on another team that’s from Chicago, it’s a special thing, ’cause we know what it means to play high school ball and grew up in that city,” Love said.
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Love now lives just down the street from his old high school and is in close touch with his former coach. He also hosts a summer football camp.
“Humble, poised, modest, really a coach’s dream,” Nazareth Academy head coach Tim Racki said.
The local players will give fans from their hometown high schools a little more to root for on Sunday.
Fenwick football player Tommy Thies wears Spillane’s jersey number.
“It just means a lot, wearing the number that he wore and everything he did for the program,” Thies said.
Fenwick officials are hoping Spillane will come back and host his football summer camp this year. They’re also hoping he’ll have a Super Bowl trophy to bring back to let them see as well.
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