For some athletes, leaving the game is never really an option they want to take. For former Pittsburgh Steeler linebacker Jason Gildon, that rings true as he’s pursued a coaching career since stepping away from the NFL.
Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School announced Tuesday that Gildon has been hired and introduced as the coach of the school’s football team.
Prior to taking the position, Gildon was an assistant coach at Seneca Valley for three years. Before that, he served at Peters Township.
“Jason Gildon embodies the mission and vision of Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School and is dedicated to the formation and development of each player,” said Dr. Ann C. Gaudino, the school’s principal, in a press release. “We are confident that Coach Gildon will continue our great tradition of excellence.”
The former Steeler was chosen in a pool of over 40 candidates from 10 states, the release stated.
Of getting the job, Gildon issued this statement in the release:
“I am truly excited. This is a great opportunity to be part of a school of rich tradition. The role of a high school coach is to wear a lot of hats: friend, mentor and in some cases being a father figure to young men. I want to build a legacy of molding young men. The game of football has taught me a lot about life and I want to pass it along to them. I hope to lead our student-athletes to aspire to greater things.”
Gildon played for the Steelers from 1994-2003. He was a team captain from 1998-2003 and holds the club’s all-time career sack record with 77 sacks. He was selected to three Pro Bowls during his career in Pittsburgh.
