Support Coach Zabinski in His Fight Against Cancer

For over 30 years, Coach Zabinski—“Coach Z” to the thousands of athletes and families he's inspired—has dedicated his life to mentoring, leading, and uplifting young people through football. For 22 of those years, he proudly served the Johnsburg J-hawks, and before that, made a lasting impact in Buffalo Grove. He’s more than a coach—he’s a mentor, a motivator, and a beloved part of our community’s fabric.

Now, Coach Z needs our support.

Recently, Coach Z was diagnosed with a rare disease called Castleman’s disease, which has progressed into an aggressive and rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This week, on Wednesday, he begins an intensive chemotherapy journey—hospitalized for five days every three weeks for six rounds. These treatments are physically and emotionally draining—not just for Coach Z, but also for his wife, who is doing her best to continue working while staying by his side during every hospitalization.

We are raising funds to help cover:

Mounting medical expenses

Travel, lodging, and time off work so his wife can be with him during treatment

Support for day-to-day needs during this incredibly challenging time

Coach Z has always shown up for others—on the field, in the locker room, and throughout the community. Now it’s our turn to show up for him.

His daughter, Jess, and son-in-law, Vern, are deeply rooted in the Johnsburg community, volunteering their time in youth sports and local organizations. The Zabinski family has poured their hearts into our town—and we have the chance to give some of that love back.

Please consider donating and sharing this campaign. Every dollar makes a difference, and every share spreads the word.

Let’s rally behind a coach, a husband, a father, and a friend.

Let’s rally for Coach Zabinski.

#TeamZabinski