East High School football has new head coach

By Leo Link, Eastside News

Antoine Manning has been named Madison East High School’s new head football coach. Manning, a native of Miami, Florida, and a teacher at an alternative education school located in Northern Illinois, replaces Jeremy Thornton as head coach.

“I have 20 years of coaching experience total — 17 years of coaching experience at the collegiate level and three years at the high school level,” Manning said.

He has held numerous positions as a coordinator and assistant coach.

“My coaching philosophy of molding lives through sports focuses on developing young men beyond, and is not just about wins and losses,” Manning said.

He wanted to be head coach at East to make a positive impact on the lives of student-athletes using his passion for football and he desires to pass along his knowledge to student athletes. He also plans to help develop player skills and instill values such as teamwork and discipline.

“Coaching football at Madison East excites me the most because of the opportunity to work with a dedicated group of student-athletes and contribute to their growth, both on and off the field,” Manning said. “It is truly motivating and rewarding.”

Supporters can expect some changes to the East Football program.

“Fans can anticipate new plays, formations, and overall game plans tailored to maximize the team’s strengths and address areas for improvement,” he said.

Manning plans to introduce player development initiatives and training programs for the team. Along with improving the team, Manning plans to create more ties to the community through football clinics, community service projects and partnerships with local organizations.

As Manning relocates to Madison, he’s excited to settle in a vibrant and supportive community.

While games don’t start until the middle of August, Manning is in the process of relocating to the area and preparing for the upcoming season. The earliest practices are allowed is Aug. 6.

“For me, the season began the day I was hired,” he said. “Currently, I am in the process of preparing for the year, hiring staff and making sure we are all in agreement with the philosophy and expectations of coaching.”