JUST IN: “MORE THAN JUST A NAME” — KALANI SITAKE NAMES NEWBORN SON ‘LAVELL’ IN TOUCHING TRIBUTE TO BYU LEGEND.HE STATED THAT THE NAME IS A LEGACY OF..
In a deeply personal and emotional moment that has touched the hearts of Cougar fans everywhere, BYU head football coach Kalani Sitake has named his newborn son LaVell—a powerful tribute to the late, legendary BYU coach LaVell Edwards.
The announcement, made via a simple but stirring social media post that read “More than just a name,” has set Cougar Nation ablaze with love, memories, and gratitude.
> “LaVell changed my life. Naming my son after him is one small way to honor the giant who built this program, this culture, and gave me a shot when I needed it most,” Sitake wrote.
A Legacy That Lives On
LaVell Edwards, the iconic figure behind BYU’s rise to national prominence, served as head coach from 1972 to 2000, amassing 257 wins, a national title, and generations of loyalty and love. Sitake, who played under Edwards in the late 1990s, has often credited him for not just shaping his career, but defining his approach to faith, family, and football.
> “Coach Edwards taught us how to win with humility, how to lead with love, and how to put people first,” Sitake once said in a past tribute.
Now, that legacy is not only etched in the program’s history—but in the Sitake family tree.
Cougar Nation Reacts: “Tears. Just tears.”
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of emotion from players, fans, and alumni alike.
> “LaVell would be proud. What a beautiful tribute,” said former BYU quarterback Steve Young.
“This is why Kalani is BYU. Loyalty, legacy, and love,” one fan posted.
“Tears. Just tears,” another wrote.
Even the official BYU Football account responded with a heart emoji and the simple caption: “Cougar family forever.”
A Symbolic Moment in BYU’s New Chapter
The birth of baby LaVell comes at a time when BYU football is experiencing a powerful resurgence—making Kalani Sitake’s gesture not only sentimental but symbolic. As the Cougars embrace the future in the Big 12, they do so while holding tightly to the values and foundations laid by LaVell Edwards.
Welcome to the World, Baby LaVell
With a name that carries the weight of a dynasty and the heart of a family, young LaVell Sitake has already made history before his first steps.
And in true BYU fashion, his journey begins with faith, family, and football—
