A football coach just became the face of an entire county.
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake was named a Utah County Person of the Year recipient Thursday, a recognition that extends far beyond the gridiron. Honored at the 2026 State of Utah County event at the Utah Valley Convention Center, Sitake was chosen for something bigger than wins: the way his leadership has reshaped Utah County’s culture, economy, and national identity.
And the wins? They don’t hurt.
In 2025 alone, Sitake steered BYU to a 12-2 record, a No. 11 AP ranking, and Big 12 Coach of the Year honors. Only national champion Indiana won more games against teams with nine-plus wins. Only Indiana and Oregon, a College Football Playoff semifinalist, earned more wins over winning-record opponents. The Cougars weren’t just good. They were historically good.
Zoom out further and the picture gets even sharper. Over the last two seasons, BYU sits at 23-4, (.852) winning percentage that only Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State, and Notre Dame can top. Back-to-back bowl victories over ranked teams. Back-to-back seasons knocking on the College Football Playoff door.
Sitake was joined in the recognition by former Orem City mayor Jim Evans, with Harward Farms and Thanksgiving Point named Business and Organization of the Year. County Commissioners Skyler Beltran, Amelia Powers Gardner, and Brandon Gordon presented the honors.
But make no mistake. A coach turning a football program into a point of regional pride? That’s the story here.
