Marquette University High School has selected Jon Kahle ‘00 to lead the Hilltoppers football program as its new head coach.

As a coach, educator, and MUHS alumnus, Kahle brings a wealth of experience to build on the program’s mission and tradition of excellence. Kahle joins MUHS after a distinguished tenure at Brookfield Academy, where he served as the head football coach and the Upper School Athletic Director since 2012. 

“Jon embodies the values of Marquette University High School, bringing a deep commitment to character development, leadership and excellence both on and off the field,” said MUHS Athletic Director Bob Herman. “His experience in building successful programs, mentoring student-athletes, and fostering a culture of hard work and integrity makes him the ideal leader for our football program.”

Kahle was instrumental in building up the Brookfield Academy football program, taking a team with minimal post-season experience to establishing a foundation of excellence, culminating in 11 playoff appearances in 13 years and three road playoff victories in the last five years. 

In 2021, he was nominated to coach in the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association All-Star Game. Beyond the field, he played a key role in developing a new state-of-the-art fitness center, utilizing research and current best practices to enhance student-athlete training programs and physical education.

Kahle’s coaching experience also includes a successful stint at Catholic high school St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he served as an assistant coach on the 2007 Division 1 state championship team.

Off the football field, Kahle has also served as an assistant varsity coach for baseball and Fitness Center Director, working to develop student health and confidence with physical education programs. As a teacher, he has taught Western Civilization to freshmen and sophomores, reinforcing his passion for education and student development.

Kahle’s ties to MUHS run deep. His brothers, Kris ‘95 and Tim ‘07, also attended MUHS, and all three played football under coach Dick Basham. Kahle himself was a wide receiver on the 1999 state championship team, the last to win a WISAA state title before the transition to the WIAA. His wife Laura teaches English at MUHS. 

"I am honored to return to my alma mater and lead the Hilltoppers football program," Kahle said. "MUHS has a rich tradition of excellence in athletics, academics, and shaping young men of character and leadership. I look forward to building on that legacy by fostering a culture of hard work, teamwork, and personal growth, both on and off the field."

Kahle holds a Master’s degree in Education Administration from Providence College and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Education from Marquette University. His dedication to student growth aligns perfectly with the mission and values of Marquette University High School.

Kahle takes over the program following the retirement of Coach Keith Klestinski, who dedicated 36 years of service to MUHS. During his 28-year coaching tenure, Klestinski helmed the football team for the last five seasons, culminating in the 2023 Division 1 state championship.