A fresh chapter has begun for the North Central football team with the appointment of Collin Coffer as the new head coach. Approved by the school board on Wednesday evening, this move marks a significant shift for the program. Coffer brings extensive experience from various coaching positions in college football, most recently serving as an assistant coach at Indiana State for three years. With a background rooted in both playing and coaching, he is poised to bring new energy and strategies to the Panthers, aiming to turn around their recent struggles.
Coffer’s journey in football has been diverse and impressive. After graduating from Lawrence North High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, he pursued higher education and coaching opportunities. His career highlights include being a four-year starter as a cornerback at the University of Indianapolis, followed by roles as a graduate assistant and coach at several institutions. Prior to joining North Central, he had plans to take on a position at Butler University as the passing game coordinator, but the opportunity at North Central presented itself at a pivotal moment.
The task ahead for Coffer is undoubtedly challenging. The Panthers have faced significant setbacks over the past few seasons, including a 32-game losing streak. Under previous coaches Derek Hart and Kevin O’Shea, the team struggled to find success on the field. However, Coffer’s background in rebuilding programs and his hands-on experience make him a promising choice to lead the team toward improvement. His tenure at the University of Indianapolis, where he not only played but also coached, underscores his ability to connect with players and instill discipline and strategy.
As Coffer takes the helm, the community and players alike are looking forward to a fresh start. The appointment signals a commitment to revitalizing the football program, bringing hope that the Panthers can soon return to competitive form. Fans and supporters are eager to see how Coffer’s leadership will shape the future of North Central football, setting the stage for a brighter outlook on the field.