The Ithaca College football program’s got some real momentum right now, thanks in large part to the new promotions just announced by head coach Brandon Maguire. These moves are meant to keep things steady but also shake up the energy in some key spots.
Three coaches are stepping into bigger roles: Will Margraff, Will Gladney, and Drew Miller. Each of them brings something different to the table, and honestly, it feels like the kind of mix that could push the Bombers forward in a big way.
Will Margraff: The New Defensive Coordinator
Will Margraff has moved up from linebackers and co-special teams coordinator to defensive coordinator. He’s had a strong run with the team already, mentoring guys like Ryan Burns and Henry Takacs—both All-Liberty League picks last year.
Those two racked up 110 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks between them. Takacs even landed a spot as a CSC Academic All-District selection, which is nothing to sneeze at.
Margraff’s Impact on the Defense
Margraff’s been all about growth and leadership, and you can really see it in how the defense has developed. He’s got a knack for defensive football, and honestly, he just works his tail off.
He’s picked up experience at Marist, Hampden-Sydney, Penn, and obviously Ithaca, so he’s not new to this. Coach Maguire has said he trusts Margraff with the defensive game planning and player development, and you get the sense this promotion is about letting him take the reins a bit more.
Will Gladney: From Star Player to Wide Receivers Coach
Will Gladney, who graduated in 2020 and still holds the record as Ithaca’s all-time leading receiver, is now a full-time coach. He’s working with the wide receivers, a group that’s already got some talent—Nicholas Lang, for instance, who had 60 catches for 899 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Gladney’s Transition from Player to Coach
Gladney hasn’t wasted any time making himself valuable on the staff. He knows what Ithaca football is about, and being a recent player himself, he brings something different to the job.
Coach Maguire has pointed out how much Gladney’s helped the receivers grow. The move from standout player to coach isn’t always easy, but Gladney seems to be making it work, and you can tell he cares about the guys he’s coaching.
Drew Miller: The New Run Game Coordinator
Drew Miller, a 2021 grad, is stepping up as recruiting coordinator while still handling offensive line duties. The O-line he’s been coaching averaged nearly 160 rushing yards per game last season, which is pretty solid.
All-league honorees Jimmy Mullevey and Daniel Pauletti were anchors for that unit. Miller’s fingerprints are all over that group’s success.
Miller’s Contributions to the Offensive Line
Miller brings a lot of energy and pays attention to the little things. His leadership has helped the offensive line come together and really move the ball on the ground.
Now, as Run Game Coordinator, he’ll have a bigger say in how the offense operates. Maguire’s praised his work with the line and as recruiting coordinator, and honestly, it feels like a smart move to give him more responsibility.
The Future of Ithaca College Football
With Margraff, Gladney, and Miller stepping up, there’s a sense that Ithaca football is aiming for both stability and growth. Each coach brings their own style and experience, and that mix could be what pushes the team to the next level.
Continuity and Stability
Keeping these three around means the players know what to expect, and that can make a huge difference. Familiar faces in important roles help keep things moving in the right direction.
Energy and Expertise
At the same time, these promotions bring new ideas and energy. Margraff’s defensive mind, Gladney’s perspective as a recent player, and Miller’s blend of offensive strategy and recruiting—it’s a combination that could really shake things up in a good way.
Conclusion
Big changes just landed for the Ithaca College football coaching staff. The team recently promoted Will Margraff, Will Gladney, and Drew Miller.
These appointments should bring some real energy and stability to the program. There’s a sense that this move could help the Bombers stay competitive and maybe even shake things up a bit.
Curious about the details or what might be next? Check out the official announcement here.
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