Dupage Policy Journal

Former NFL star Don Beebe has been named new football coach at Aurora University.

Beebe’s installment is effective immediately and was publicly made official on the school’s website.

 “Beebe's highly regarded by coaches, players and fans for his strong character, robust work ethic and perseverance, embodies Aurora University Athletics' core values of academic success, social responsibility and athletic championships,” school officials noted in the announcement.

Known for his grit and never-ending relentlessness, Beebe played nine NFL seasons as a wide receiver, appearing in six Super Bowls and winning a championship with the Green Bay Packers.

"I am honored to coach AU football, drawing on my NFL, coaching and training experience and bringing it home where my roots are, where I was born and raised my family and still live," he said. "I knew mentoring kids was my calling when I retired, and sports is my avenue to do that. I care about my players and want to instill in them the importance of never settling for mediocrity.”

Beebe hinted he plans to hit the ground running and has a distinct vision for his new team.

“I want our Spartan football players to think big,” he added. “With hard work and commitment, they can and will achieve great things."

Beebe grew up in nearby Sugar Grove, attending Aurora and playing basketball for one season.  While playing football at Chadron State College in western Nebraska, his combination of speed and toughness caught the eye of NFL scouts.

Since retiring from the NFL, he founded House of Speed in Aurora. The operation specializes in training athletes to perform better by enhancing speed and character.

Beebe has also coached at Aurora Christian High School, where he won two state championships.