North Hills names Eric Kasperowicz head football coach

The North Hills School District has named Eric Kasperowicz as its next head football coach, with the school board approving his hiring at its legislative meeting on January 15, 2026.

A 1994 graduate of North Hills High School, Kasperowicz returns to lead the program where he once excelled as a student-athlete. A four-year starting quarterback for the Indians, he earned Parade All-American honors and led North Hills to both WPIAL and PIAA state championships during his senior season. He continued his football career at the University of Pittsburgh, where he played on a full scholarship, lettered all four years, and finished his collegiate career as a linebacker.

Kasperowicz began teaching in the North Hills School District in 1999 and is currently a gifted education teacher at North Hills High School, where he has long been recognized for his dedication to students both inside and outside the classroom.

Superintendent Dr. Patrick Mannarino said Kasperowicz’s hiring reflects the district’s long-standing tradition of having a head football coach who also serves students during the school day.

“North Hills is a special place built on pride and a commitment to excellence,” Dr. Mannarino said. “We have a proud history of having a teacher or administrator serve as our head football coach, and I’m pleased we can continue that tradition by welcoming Eric.”

“As an alumnus, former coach, and current teacher in the building, Eric understands North Hills in a way few candidates could,” he added. “His daily presence allows him to build strong relationships with students and provide consistent leadership for our program.”

District leaders also cited Kasperowicz’s student-centered philosophy and program-building approach. He supports multi-sport athletes, emphasizes character and community involvement, and prioritizes balance by maintaining structured practices while allowing time for academics and life outside of football, aligning with the district’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes.

“Having a head football coach who works in the building every day matters,” said Athletic Director Patrick Weber. “Eric understands what North Hills football represents because he has lived it as a player, coach, and educator. He knows our students, our culture, and is committed to building a program that reflects the values of North Hills.”

Kasperowicz brings an accomplished coaching résumé to the role. He previously served as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator at North Hills before becoming head coach at Pine-Richland High School, where he compiled an 85-18 record, won four WPIAL championships, and captured two PIAA state titles, establishing one of the most successful programs in Pennsylvania.

He later worked at the collegiate level as an offensive analyst at the University of Pittsburgh, contributing to an ACC championship season, before being named head coach at Mars Area High School.

At Mars, Kasperowicz engineered a rapid turnaround over four seasons (2022-2025), transforming the program from a 1-9 record in 2021 into a consistent WPIAL playoff contender. The Planets reached the WPIAL Quarterfinals in 2022, posted a 10-3 season and WPIAL Semifinal appearance in 2023, and returned to the WPIAL Semifinals in 2024. His tenure was defined by steady growth, postseason success, and a renewed competitive culture.

In addition to his coaching roles, Kasperowicz has made a lasting impact in the broader football community as the director of EK Youth Football Camps, a long-running summer program focused on fundamentals, teamwork, and character development marking its 31st year this summer.

Kasperowicz was inducted into the North Hills Sports Hall of Fame in 2003 and the WPIAL Hall of Fame as an athlete in 2014.

“North Hills has always been home for me,” Kasperowicz said. “To have the opportunity to lead this program as an alumnus, former coach, and current teacher is incredibly meaningful. I’m committed to developing young people on and off the field, honoring the proud tradition of North Hills football, and building a program our students, families, and community can be proud of.”

Kasperowicz lives in Mars with his wife, Jennifer, and three children, Ella, Eric and Emlyn.

He takes over for Brody Zangaro, who served as the interim coach this past season in place of Pat Carey, who took a year off. Carey resigned from his coaching role last month but remains a physical education teacher in the district.