At Marist High School, few people have made an impact quite like Mr. Rob Topps. Known for his leadership, discipline, and heart for students, he has become an important part of the Marist community. For nearly two decades, he has balanced his work in the Dean’s Office with coaching football and wrestling, influencing students both on and off the field.

Topps has worked at Marist for 19 years, and during that time, his goal has stayed the same, to help students grow into their best selves.

“I came here to coach boys basketball,” he said. “I started coaching fourth-grade girls and boys basketball at St. Jude in South Holland. What I love most is impacting the lives of my players.”

That focus on making a difference shows up in everything he does. Whether it’s on the sidelines or in the halls, Topps leads with a mix of toughness and compassion. He describes his coaching style as “firm but fair,” and he expects the same kind of effort and dedication from his athletes that he gives to them.

“I want my players to know that hard work pays off,” he said. “All things get better with time.”

His approach to coaching comes from a lifetime of experience. Before working at Marist, Topps served in the military, something that shaped his sense of discipline, responsibility, and leadership. That background helps him connect with students and players who might be facing their own challenges.

When asked about one of his favorite memories, he smiled and mentioned the team retreat, a time when players bonded outside of competition.

“That’s when you really see who they are,” he said. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about building character and teamwork.”

Outside of work, Topps enjoys watching college sports and following athletes who inspire him. One of his biggest role models is Muhammad Ali.

“Ali inspires me because he was willing to give up everything to stand for what he felt was right,” he said.

That same sense of courage and conviction is something he tries to pass down to his players.

If he weren’t working in education or coaching, Topps said he would like to be them mayor of Chicago.

 “I’ve always wanted to make a difference in my community,” he said. “Being mayor would be another way to help people and bring positive change.”

When asked what he loves most about Marist, Topps didn’t hesitate.

“The students,” he said simply.

He’s also proud of how the school has grown and changed since he started.

“There’s more diversity within the school now,” he said. “It’s great to see so many different students coming together.”

His advice for current and future students reflects his open-minded and caring attitude.

“Be open to things and people that are different than you,” he said. “You never know what you can learn or how someone else’s experience can help you grow.”

Even though the basketball season hasn’t started yet, students are already noticing his presence. Freshmen Kevin Hunter said, “You can tell he wants everyone to do their best.”

Hunter is excited to play under Topps this season.

“He’s tough but fair. You can tell he just wants to make us better,” he said. “He brings leadership and heart to Marist.”

When asked how he hopes people will remember him, his answer summed up everything he stands for.

“As someone who cared,” he said.

And for anyone who’s ever met him, that’s exactly how they do.