There’s more than one way to tackle a task, whether it’s cleaning the garage or coaching a football team. You could go full speed, get it done in record time, and move on. Or you could turn it into a team effort, make it fun, and enjoy the process—maybe even learn something along the way. For BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake, it’s always about that second option. His coaching style reflects not just strategy but also heart, a perspective deeply rooted in the lessons he learned from his father.He has been a great advisor and mentor to me, along with just being my father. There are a lot of things that just he understands.” Kalani stated. Wow, their bond is really something, huh? You know, according to Kalani, if there was a Utah County Father of the Year Award, the man would win it every year. But in addition to his father, his mother is also quite important. The moment has come to discover more about the parents of the head coach at BYU.Who are Kalani Sitake’s parents?
Kalani Sitake is the son of Tom Sitake and Eseta Vaetolufatu. But growing up, things weren’t exactly conventional. After his parents split when he was just six, Kalani, who was born in Tonga, was mostly raised by his dad, Tomasi. His mom didn’t reach out to him until he was 24. But despite the distance, Kalani never felt unloved or unsupported. If you check out his Instagram, you’ll see tons of posts with his dad, where Kalani opens up about seeking advice and staying close. Even when Kalani started his second season at BYU, his dad was there for every game, practice, and training session—just virtually. Now, that’s a connection you can’t beat!It is impossible to discuss Kalani’s father without mentioning the Father’s Day celebration on June 20. For Kalani’s father, “a college degree is a Father’s Day gift to me every day,” he said. As Kalani put it, “For me, his gift is that we are always staying in touch and hanging out.“ Furthermore, Kalani went on, “That is what he expects from us. Trust me, he has plenty of ties. … He’s the best-dressed person I know. He has a full closet.”
It seems like as early as the son’s toddler years, the father and son have had an unshakable bond. They have the closest relationship a parent and son can have. In Kalani’s 9 seasons as the Cougars’ coach, hardly a day passes that Tom doesn’t stop by Kalani’s office in Provo or go to a football practice. And the coolest thing is how Tom and Kalani, the BYU coach, have a special connection that he also shares with his kids.
