Central Michigan University has appointed Matt Drinkall, an assistant coach from Army, as the new head football coach for the Chippewas. The announcement was made by CMU Athletic Director Amy Folan on Monday, marking a new chapter for the program. Drinkall becomes the 30th head coach in the history of Central Michigan football.
A New Leader for the Chippewas
Drinkall, known for his offensive expertise and strong leadership, brings a wealth of experience to the role. During his time at Army, he served as the tight ends coach and recruiting coordinator, contributing to the team’s disciplined and innovative style of play. His background also includes a successful tenure as the head coach of Kansas Wesleyan University, where he transformed the program into a national contender in the NAIA, setting numerous school records along the way.
“This is a tremendous opportunity, and I am honored to lead the Central Michigan football program,” Drinkall said in a statement. “I’m committed to building a team that reflects the hard work, discipline, and passion of this university and its community.”
Rebuilding Central Michigan Football
The appointment comes as CMU looks to revitalize its football program following a challenging season. The Chippewas finished the 2024 season with a disappointing record, leading to a coaching change to inject new energy and direction into the team. Drinkall’s reputation for innovative offensive strategies and his ability to develop players make him a strong choice to guide the Chippewas back to prominence in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
Amy Folan expressed confidence in Drinkall’s ability to elevate the program. “Matt Drinkall is a proven leader and an outstanding coach who understands the values and traditions of Central Michigan football,” Folan said. “His track record of success and commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of this program.”
A Proven Track Record
Drinkall’s coaching philosophy emphasizes adaptability, player development, and fostering a winning culture. At Army, he played a key role in developing versatile offensive schemes that capitalized on the team’s strengths. His recruiting efforts also helped bring in high-caliber talent, ensuring a competitive edge on the field.
Prior to his stint at Army, Drinkall’s leadership at Kansas Wesleyan University was transformative. Under his guidance, the program achieved unprecedented success, highlighted by multiple conference championships and national playoff appearances.
Central Michigan fans and alumni are eager to see how Drinkall will shape the program in the coming months. His first priority will be assembling a coaching staff and hitting the recruiting trail to bolster the roster. With spring practice just around the corner, Drinkall faces the challenge of quickly implementing his vision and preparing the team for the 2025 season.
The Chippewas hope that this new hire will restore the program’s competitiveness and rekindle the pride of the Central Michigan football community.