NFL Great Dave Zastudil ‘97 Returns to His Football Roots, Coaching BMS 5-6 Graders

As a three-sport athlete who played football in college and the NFL, Dave Zastudil Bay High School Class of ‘97 knows firsthand how important coaches are in preparing students for the field, the classroom and the future. He’s bringing that responsibility full circle by coaching his son Chase’s 5-6 grade rec football team.

“With a few other awesome coaches, we tried to establish a great youth program and set the bar on what it is like to be a youth Rocket,” said Zastudil. “It was so fun seeing Chase and his friends grow and learn the most important part of football…Trust, Loyalty, Respect and Attitude.”

Zastudil said more than 40 students came out for the team, and they worked hard, loved the game of football, and most importantly, cared for each other. He compares Chase’s rec team to the 1996 Bay Rocket football team he played for.

“My favorite Bay High School moment was beating our Co-SWC (Southwestern Conference) champions in 1996, the Olmsted Falls Bulldogs 27-7, at home under the lights with a packed house!”

After his career in the NFL — including the Ravens, Browns and Cardinals — the punter returned to Bay Village to raise his own family with wife, Sara. He’s putting his Ohio University business degree to work brokering commercial property and casualty programs (focusing on public entities, manufacturing, nonprofit and construction related entities) as Area Vice President with Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

“I have five children and I just love the schools and their dedication to excellence…and most importantly…the people,” Zastudil said. “Bay Village provides families that small town feel, and kids can ride their bikes around and just be kids. Our family loves being out on the water, and having access to Lake Erie is great.”

While at Bay High School, Zastudil said his favorite subject was history, and he was challenged by taking Advanced Placement courses and business classes. He said the school encouraged students to be involved with a variety of activities to help prepare for life after high school.

“I want to thank all the coaches, teachers and administrators for continuing to care for these students and student-athletes,” said Zastudil. “With kids in the Bay Schools myself, I appreciate everyone’s goal of keeping the standard of excellence high, and I look forward to seeing this community and schools be great for years to come.”

(Story courtesy Bay Village Schools).