Nazareth lineman Christian Malachuk seeks fourth straight state title

Nazareth offensive lineman Christian Malachuk will start at center on Saturday when the Knights play Dunlap in the Class 6A playoffs. The game begins at 1:30 p.m. after a nearly three-hour bus ride. Malachuk said he is prioritizing sleep this week to keep his body and mind fresh for the long travel.

Malachuk is in his fourth and final year on the varsity team. He has played in 52 varsity games, starting all but the first five contests of his freshman season. Coach Tim Racki called Malachuk’s football IQ a blessing for a line that includes two juniors and a sophomore around him and Missouri commit Luke Injaychock.

The senior started at left guard as a freshman, right tackle as a sophomore, and left tackle as a junior. Racki moved him to center this year to help communicate checks and blocking schemes. The coach said Malachuk’s athleticism and technique allow him to play any spot on the line.

Malachuk weighed 225 pounds as a freshman. He now stands 6 feet tall and weighs 290 pounds. He said he had to add muscle to compete with the physical players in the Conference of Christian League. He described some of his opponents as freaks of nature.

Malachuk earned CCL Lineman of the Year honors as a junior. He is the second of three brothers to play for Nazareth. His older brother Logan broke an IHSA career passing yards record and led the Knights to state titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024. His younger brother Gavin is a junior outside linebacker.

Christian Malachuk said the family size difference is a result of their mother being five feet tall. He joked that the brothers are making the best of what they have. He said he is grateful for his physical talents.

The Knights won the Class 5A state championship in 2023 after finishing the regular season with a 4-5 record. Malachuk was a freshman on that team. He said the underdog status helped the team play better. He remembered looking up to the senior leaders, including his older brother Logan, during that season.

The current Nazareth group hopes to repeat that success in Class 6A. Malachuk said the culture built by the coaching staff creates a strong connection on the team. He said the players will give it their all regardless of the opponent.

The Knights will travel to Dunlap for the game. The long bus ride is a change from their usual schedule. Malachuk said he is ready for the challenge. The team aims to add another state title to the family legacy.