Jason Gildon still is an imposing presence, more than a decade after his career as a Steelers linebacker ended.
Even more impressive than his NFL resume, which includes a Steelers-record 77 sacks and three Pro Bowl selections in 11 seasons, are his references: Bill Cowher and Jack Del Rio.
One of only a handful of African-American head football coaches in the WPIAL, Gildon didn't need the Rooney Rule — or help from the Rooney family — to be selected by Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic, which had 40-plus applicants from 10 states.
His name still resonates enough to attract national attention, even though Gildon “wasn't hired for his name, not by any stretch,” CWNC athletic director Mike Burrell said. “Take away his NFL playing career, and he still was our best candidate.”
Gildon said he didn't ask for help from Steelers chairman Dan Rooney, a North grad. His deep respect for the family, however, only enhanced his chances.
“I think my relationship with the Rooneys has always been a positive one,” Gildon said. “I owe them a lot, but I didn't want that to be a factor. I went about it the right way.”
Another North grad, Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert, gave the school his highest recommendation for Gildon.
Despite having no previous head coaching experience, Gildon might be the right man for the school now known as Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic.
The school is in a transition phase since moving from Troy Hill to a Cranberry campus.
If Gildon learned anything from his days with the Steelers, it's how to help Cardinal Wuerl move forward while respecting the tradition of North Catholic.
The best way? Win.
Kevin Gorman is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. Reach him at kgorman@tribweb.com or via Twitter @KGorman_Trib.
