End of an Era for Lincoln-Way’s Zvonar Family

Senior linebacker Colton Zvonar views this season as the closing chapter for him and his family with Lincoln-Way East football. His father, Rob Zvonar, who has been the head coach since the program’s inception, might retire after this season. It’s certain, though, that this will be his last season coaching his sons at the Griffins. Colton is the youngest of the three Zvonar brothers to play for their dad.

“It’s taken years to get here, but the whole experience feels almost unreal now,” Colton shared. “While aiming for the state championship is a priority, we’re also taking in every moment of this final season together.”

Rob Zvonar has considered stepping down after his sons graduate, but he remains undecided. “I haven’t dwelled on it or thought about it much,” he explained. “The focus is on this season, staying present, and committing to these kids.”

Colton, a starting player for three years, is pivotal for the team. Ranked No. 3 in the Daily Southtown preseason rankings, the Griffins rely on his leadership. “His experience is crucial. He must act as the defensive quarterback,” Rob said about Colton. “Being a coach’s kid gives him a unique understanding, pushing him to improve where necessary.”

Playing under his father’s guidance has been fulfilling for Colton, despite the challenges. “The best part is that I have grown up with the sport, so I possess the football intelligence needed to relay his decisions to the team,” Colton noted. “On the downside, getting yelled at is tough. But outside of football, everything is normal. It’s great.”

Charlie Palmer, a senior defensive back and Central Michigan recruit, praised Colton’s football knowledge. “By sophomore year, he already understood the defense. He’s grown up with his dad’s defense, knows it thoroughly, and leads by example,” Palmer observed.

Colton Zvonar believes this year has introduced a new toughness in him. “As a freshman and sophomore, I wasn’t tough enough. But I’ve become stronger physically over time,” he noted.

Colton Zvonar and Palmer stand among the team’s seasoned players. The Griffins are relatively inexperienced, without the notable attention Frankfort teams got in recent years. “Being the underdog isn’t always bad,” Colton said. “We’ll be a scrappy, determined group fighting to win every quarter.”

If this truly marks Rob Zvonar’s final season, it only adds to their motivation. “It’s a major driving force for us,” Colton expressed. “With his impressive career, what’s better than ending on another high note? We’ll give it our all.”

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).