“A SPECIAL NAME, A SPECIAL STORY”: BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake Welcomes New Baby Honoring a Cougar Legend—Family, Faith, and Football Intertwine in Powerful Moment
Provo, Utah — The Brigham Young University football family just got a little bigger—and a lot more meaningful.
In a heartwarming moment off the gridiron, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and his wife, Timberly, have welcomed a beautiful new addition to their family. The couple recently celebrated the birth of their baby boy, and in a move that has Cougar Nation buzzing, they’ve given him a name that carries deep emotional and historical weight—one that ties directly to a revered figure in BYU football history.
The Sitakes named their son LaVell—a tribute to none other than the late LaVell Edwards, the legendary coach who transformed BYU into a national powerhouse and whose name still echoes with reverence across college football.
A Name That Carries a Legacy
“To us, LaVell isn’t just a name—it’s a legacy of leadership, humility, and unwavering faith,” Kalani Sitake said in a statement released by the university. “Coach Edwards changed my life. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Naming our son after him is our way of honoring a man who continues to inspire us every single day.”
Edwards coached BYU from 1972 to 2000, winning 257 games and a national championship in 1984. He mentored generations of players and coaches, including Sitake himself, who played fullback for BYU in the mid-90s.
Sitake, now entering his ninth season as head coach, has long cited Edwards as one of his greatest mentors. Though Edwards passed away in 2016, his teachings, leadership style, and commitment to faith-centered football continue to shape BYU’s identity—especially under Sitake’s guidance.
The baby’s full name—LaVell Edwards Sitake—has not only tugged on the heartstrings of Cougar fans but also sent a ripple of emotion through the college football world. Social media was quick to react, with fans, former players, and even rival coaches offering congratulations and praising the Sitakes’ decision to carry on LaVell’s legacy in such a personal way.
Faith, Family, and Football
For the Sitake family, this moment is about more than just football. It’s about faith. It’s about passing down values. And it’s about the kind of legacy that outlives trophies and records.
Timberly Sitake shared her perspective in a heartfelt Instagram post, writing:
“Welcoming baby LaVell into our home has been one of the most emotional experiences of our lives. Watching Kalani tear up as he held him for the first time—knowing what this name means—was something I’ll never forget. This is more than a tribute; it’s a promise to raise him with the same love, strength, and spiritual foundation that Coach Edwards instilled in so many.”
The Sitakes are known for being a close-knit family, often involving their children in the Cougar football culture. Whether it’s on the sidelines during practice, in the stands during home games, or at team family events, the Sitake household has always been an extension of the BYU locker room.
The arrival of baby LaVell only deepens that bond.
A Symbol of Continuity
This moment comes at an important time for BYU football.
As the Cougars continue their transition into the Big 12 Conference, Sitake is tasked with guiding the program through a new era—one that demands both competitive grit and cultural grounding. Naming his son after LaVell Edwards isn’t just a personal gesture—it’s a powerful statement about the kind of program Sitake intends to run.
“He’s reminding everyone that BYU’s values—faith, character, tradition—aren’t going anywhere,” said former BYU quarterback John Beck. “It’s a beautiful thing, and honestly, it’s rare in today’s college football landscape. Kalani is keeping the soul of BYU alive.”
Several former players under both Sitake and Edwards have expressed admiration for the choice.
Harvey Unga, BYU’s all-time leading rusher and now a running backs coach on Sitake’s staff, was emotional when reflecting on the news.
“Coach Sitake lives and breathes what BYU stands for. Naming his son LaVell isn’t about football glory—it’s about love and gratitude. It’s about passing on the legacy of a man who loved his players like family.”
Fan Reaction: Cougar Nation Embraces Baby LaVell
On BYU fan forums, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with one thread titled simply: “Our Coach Gets It.”
“This is the kind of story that reminds you why you love this program,” one fan wrote. “Kalani doesn’t just talk about family—he lives it.”
Another user commented: “I hope baby LaVell grows up surrounded by stories of the man he’s named after. He’s got some big shoes to fill—but with parents like Kalani and Timberly, he’s off to a great start.”
Looking Ahead: Bigger Than Football
Though the Cougars are deep into preseason camp, preparing for a pivotal 2025 campaign, Sitake took time away from the field to be with his family during the birth. It’s another example of his philosophy that success in football should never come at the expense of what matters most.
“He’s always said, ‘Faith and family first,’” said BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe. “And once again, he’s showing us that he means it.”
When asked whether baby LaVell would be joining the team at practices anytime soon, Sitake chuckled.
“Not just yet,” he said, smiling. “But give him a couple years—he might be our next fullback.”
Final Thoughts: A Touching Tribute with Deep Roots
In a sport often dominated by stats, contracts, and rankings, the Sitake family’s heartfelt tribute to a BYU icon has reminded fans everywhere of the emotional core that still beats within college football.
Baby LaVell isn’t just the newest Cougar fan—he’s a living symbol of the program’s past, present, and future. Through him, the spirit of LaVell Edwards lives on.
And as Cougar Nation looks ahead to the 2025 season, they do so with a renewed sense of pride, unity, and purpose—knowing that the values they hold dear are safe in the hands (and the heart) of Coach Kalani Sitake.
Congratulations to the Sitake family—from all of Cougar Nation. Welcome to the world, Baby LaVell.
