This story is written by Twan Russell, St. Thomas Aquinas’ Athletic Director
Some Super Bowl stories are about plays and trophies. Kirk Olivadotti’s story is about people and purpose.
Long before he coached linebackers on football’s biggest stage at Super Bowl LX, Kirk was an elite St. Thomas Aquinas Raider.
At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Kirk starred as a defensive back and became one of the most electric athletes on the field and track. He ran the 100, 200, 400, and anchored the 4×100 relay, known across South Florida as “The Four Horsemen.”
Everyone wanted to see them compete.
The 4×100 wasn’t just a race, it was an event. And Kirk was the closer, the anchor leg, the one trusted to finish. When the baton hit his hand, the victory usually followed. Calm under pressure. Fast when it mattered most. Traits that would define his life long after the finish line.
Truth be told, Kirk helped shape championships beyond his own.
As teammates, I [Twan Russell] couldn’t beat him in the 100 or 200 meters. So I pivoted and focused on the hurdles, and that decision led me to a state championship my senior year. Kirk’s speed forced me to adapt, to grow, and to discover where God had uniquely gifted me. That lesson has stayed with me ever since.
But Kirk’s influence went far beyond the track.
Many weekends, a group of us would be invited to Dolphins games where Kirk’s dad worked, Tom Olivadotti, when he coached with the Miami Dolphins. Going to Dolphins stadium is where my own linebacker journey truly began, inspired by my favorite Dolphin LB, John Offerdahl.
Those weekends always ended at the Olivadotti home.
Mrs. O. welcomed everyone. It wasn’t unusual to have ten or more kids sleeping throughout the house, couches, floors, spare rooms, wherever there was space. Loud, joyful, and full of life, it was family in its truest form.
That foundation never left Kirk.
After Aquinas, he played football at Purdue University, then found his calling in coaching. Years later, that path led him to the Washington Commanders organization, he coached at the University of Georgia, and spent five seasons with the Green Bay Packers. In February 2024, he was named linebackers coach for the Seattle Seahawks, reuniting with Coach Mike Macdonald with the Seattle Seahawks, and now to the Super Bowl sideline.
What stands out most isn’t how far Kirk has gone, it’s how grounded he remains.
Rooted in faith.
Anchored in family.
Respectful of tradition.
Committed to excellence.
Kirk Olivadotti is one of many players and coaches connected to St. Thomas Aquinas who have reached the highest levels of sport. But for those of us who knew him first, before the spotlight, his journey is a reminder that when you build on the right foundation, the destination takes care of itself.
