The Hites Brothers: From Backyard Football to Leading St. Ignatius

Reid and Connor Hites of St. Ignatius share an intriguing football background. Unlike the typical backyard story, they honed their skills on a turfed patio over their garage in Lincoln Park. They used netting to ensure safety while playing catch and engaging in one-on-one matches. “We played catch, tackled each other, and put on oversized Bears jerseys and pads,” Connor Hites recalled.

Now, Reid Hites serves as the junior starting quarterback for St. Ignatius, while Connor began his career as a receiver. Currently, Connor is a linebacker and a senior defensive leader for the Wolfpack, who boast a 5-1 record and rank No. 13 in the Chicago Tribune’s top 25. Connor Hites holds multiple Division I scholarship offers, committing to Penn in the Ivy League, continuing the legacy of his father, Kevin, who played football at Brown.

St. Ignatius hybrid linebacker, Connor Hites, practices on campus in Chicago on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune)

At 6-foot-3 and 205 pounds, Connor might not look imposing, but Coach Matt Miller believes he fits seamlessly into modern college defenses. “Connor is a college nickel, popular for his ability to cover,” Miller noted, emphasizing the shift from traditional linebacker roles.

In essence, Connor still represents the old-school Catholic League linebacker, intimidating opponents with his fearless play. “He flies into contact like nobody else,” said Miller, impressed by Connor’s courageous approach.

St. Ignatius quarterback, Reid Hites, listens to coach Matt Miller during a practice on campus in Chicago on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune)

Reid, poised to start last year as quarterback, faced a setback due to a broken arm during the Week Zero scrimmage. However, after surgery, Reid returned to drive the team to a three-game winning streak and a Prep Bowl victory against Morgan Park. “The first week back was challenging, but soon I found my rhythm,” he shared.

St. Ignatius’ football program experienced playoff success in 2022 and 2023, advancing to the Class 6A semifinals and Class 8A quarterfinals, respectively. Elevated to the CCL/ESCC Blue, the highest division, they faced tough regular seasons. The Wolfpack, now in the CCL Orange, held a lead against No. 5 IC Catholic and secured wins over No. 18 Fenwick, No. 22 St. Rita, and Carmel. Their greatest challenge lies ahead against No. 2 Loyola.

St. Ignatius’ Reid and Connor Hites during practice on campus in Chicago on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, grew up in Lincoln Park. (Vincent D. Johnson / for the Chicago Tribune)

“Our team expected this season’s success,” Connor stated, highlighting their high standards and expectations after previous seasons where doubt lingered.

St. Ignatius, hailed for its academics and stunning practice field view on Roosevelt Avenue, offers players a Chicago skyline backdrop during drills. The Hites embraced city living, having moved from California for their father’s work. “Growing up around the city feels normal to us. Our parents prefer city life,” Reid explained.

With a breathtaking skyline view, St. Ignatius aims for continued victories.