North Allegheny Coach Art Walker Named Coach of the Year

The National Sports News Service has named North Allegheny head football coach Art Walker Jr. its National Coach of the Year.

Walker is only the third Pennsylvania coach to win the award since its inception in 1970.

Walker led the Tigers to their third straight WPIAL championship this season, and the team's second PIAA state championship in three years. The Tigers completed a perfect season by with a 63-28 win over Coatesville in the state championship game.

Walker's boss, North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto, isn't surprised by the accolades.

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“Anybody who knows Art, knows he is one of the most organized and structured coaches around," he said. "When we hired Art, I knew exactly what we were getting. His organization and structure are phenomenal."

Walker came to North Allegheny in 2005 after winning two consecutive WPIAL championships, and a state championship with Central Catholic.

"He is the guy who creates excitement, energy and accountability from all of our staff, coaches and players," said Bozzuto. "Plus, he has a passion for helping for young people. His honors are well deserved."

One more honor for Walker. He will coach the Pennsylvania team in the Big 33 Football Classic on June 15. Among his players, Tigers quarterback Mack Leftwich.

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