POUGHKEEPSIE, New York – The passion, presence, and energy of Mike Willis was apparent on day one of his new position.
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Willis was announced as the fifth head coach in Marist football history on Dec. 19. His first day on the job included meetings with staff and players, introductions to members of the Marist community, an in-house photo shoot and interview session, and more.
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Part of Willis' first day included a sit-down interview with Marist play-by-play broadcaster Geoff Brault. To see the interview in its entirety, please click on the attached play button.
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Willis earned high praise from those he has worked with and for.
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Mike is a champion, in every sense of the word. As a husband and father, as a coach and leader of young men, Mike exemplifies all that is right in college athletics. Not only has he had championship success as a player and coach, he has a clear vision of what it takes to be successful, and the work ethic to achieve it. Princeton will always be home for Mike, and he will be sorely missed here. But the future is incredibly bright for Marist football.Â
John Mack
Ford Family Director of Athletics, Princeton UniversityÂ
In 13 of my 14 seasons at Princeton, Mike Willis has experienced nearly every role possible in our program. He was in my first recruiting class and after what Mike refers to as his "gap year" (while working for one of my teammates/classmates from Princeton) he returned as an intern helping our defensive staff. He did a great job and quickly earned promotions to position coach, recruiting coordinator and then offensive coordinator in 2020. In addition to the personal success he achieved with each responsibility and team success that Princeton had during this time, I am thrilled that Marist is getting an even better person to lead their programÂ
Bob Surace
Head Football Coach, Princeton UniversityÂ
Mike Willis is one of the rising stars in the coaching profession. He has been an integral part of the success of Princeton football, both on and off the field, over the past 10 seasons. His high energy, enthusiasm, and passion for the game will be evident in how his team plays weekly. He is an excellent tactician, teacher, and recruiter who always has the student-athlete's interests in mind. Mike's teams will be well-prepared, and he will find ways to bring out the best in his players.
Steve Verbit
Senior Associate Head Coach & Defensive Coordinator, Princeton University
Mike Willis is an excellent coach. He is a proven winner and has a track record as an innovative offensive mind. Having coached and worked with Mike, I know first-hand how much he cares for the guys on his team. I am excited for Marist players - they are getting a great person as their head coach.Â
James Perry
Head Football Coach, Brown UniversityÂ
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