I am writing this letter in reference to Northern Illinois University’s recent hire of Coach Jerry Kill and his staff.

While we are saddened by the departure of Coach Kill, I can only speak of Jerry Kill with the greatest utmost respect, not only for his ability to coach and lead young men, but his character and leadership in the lives of so many of us at Southern Illinois.

I had the privilege of working closely with Coach Kill and the football program through team building and chapel services for the football team. It was through that relationship that I came to know Kill and his fine staff of assistant coaches.

During the summer of 2005, I experienced the tragic loss of my wife and my children’s mother. She was only 49 years of age, leaving me with three children. During the darkest days of my life, my extended family (the Saluki football program and the Saluki Lady’s Basketball program) were there and have been there for my family. Coach Kill, Coach Tuke, Coach Limegrover, Coach Poore, Coach Claeys, Coach Anderson, Coach Reeves, Roger and Sharon Lipem and the list could go on and on with more coaches and players.

Northern Illinois University is indeed wise to have selected a fine coach and tremendously talented coaching staff, but there is more to this coaching staff than football. They really care about people. They really care about the players and the students that participate in their program.

I have no doubt that Jerry Kill will lead the NIU football program to great victories and a winning tradition. Take good care of them NIU, and understand this: When you got our football coach and his staff, you got the very best!

Pastor Allen T. Speer
First Baptist of Cobden
Cobden, Ill.

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