St. Benedict at Auburndale has announced the hiring of Mitch McDaniel as their new football coach, marking a significant change for the school's sports program. The decision was communicated via an email release on Tuesday. With over a decade of coaching experience under his belt, McDaniel is expected to bring fresh energy and expertise to the Eagles' team, which struggled with a 2-7 record last season under previous coach Jeff Vollmar. The school expressed enthusiasm about McDaniel's appointment, highlighting his extensive background in coaching at various institutions.

McDaniel joins St. Benedict after spending four seasons at First Assembly Christian School (FACS). During his tenure there, he achieved notable success, particularly in the 2023 season when he led the Crusaders to a commendable 9-3 record and advanced them to the quarterfinals of the playoffs. Despite FACS finishing with a 3-7 record overall last year, McDaniel's leadership was pivotal in bringing the team to the first round of the DII-A West playoffs. His cumulative record at FACS stands at 17-25 across four years, showcasing a steady improvement under his guidance.

With his brother Thomas McDaniel coaching at CBHS, Mitch brings a family legacy of dedication to sportsmanship and discipline. At St. Benedict, McDaniel faces the challenge of revitalizing a program that hasn't seen a winning season since 2018, when the team finished with a respectable 7-4 record. Since then, the Eagles have experienced a challenging period, accumulating a 11-50 record. The task ahead is clear: to elevate the program’s performance and restore pride in the team.

The upcoming 2025 season will be crucial for both McDaniel and the Eagles as they aim to turn the tide and build a competitive football program. The school community anticipates seeing the impact of McDaniel's strategic approach and motivational techniques on the field. With his proven track record and commitment to nurturing young athletes, the future looks promising for St. Benedict's football program under his leadership.