New Coach in Town

By Zach Surchin

Last Spring, James Madison was hired as the new coach for Irvington’s Varsity Football team, bringing a familiar presence across various Irvington High School sports to the football field.

This is not Madison’s first time coaching football. Madison brings years of experience, as he has coached multiple football teams in the past. His deep understanding of the game stems from his long playing career, which has shaped his football IQ and coaching style. This also isn’t his first job coaching for Irvington football. The last few years he has been coaching the modified team, hoping to build a foundation for a successful varsity team in the future.

When asked what the difference between coaching varsity and modified, he replied “You are dealing with players that understand the game more. You can also engage with them and teach them the playbook more, both offensively and defensively.”

Madison is extremely optimistic for the season, believing that the current team right now will be one of the strongest Irvington football teams within recent years. Madison is very motivated and has high hopes for the season.

“I would like to try and make the playoffs and have a winning record” Madison said when asked about what his goals for the season were.

This is something that Irvington football has not been able to do for a few years. In fact it is not just Madison who wants this, the whole football team wants a winning record and to make the playoffs as well.

The players are also very excited about this move. Junior Adriel Martinez said “I think that Madison brings in a change to our culture, and a different coaching style compared to what we have seen in the past that is new and leaves teams guessing on what we do every game” when asked about what he likes about Coach Madison. Martinez credits Madison’s high IQ for the game and believes that the move was great for the culture of the team.

So far this season, the Bulldogs have played one game. A game against Hastings last Saturday and they won by a score of 25-8. With a 1-0 start, it is a huge sign that this team has taken steps in the right direction for a winning season.