Gridiron & Hardwood - A Conversation with John Kretz

Coaches At Crown Brew Getting Coffee · Sep 18, 2025 · 52m

In Episode 55 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Southern Illinois’ most respected coaches and athletic directors—John Kretz.

From his early playing days at Christopher High School and Rend Lake College, to launching new programs as a young coach, to leading both basketball and football teams across the region, Kretz built a career defined by integrity, discipline, and consistency. Best known for his 14-year tenure as…