Sports

Novi Hires New Head Football Coach

Novi High School science teacher and former Berkley High School head football coach Jeff Burnside will lead the varsity Wildcats.

Jeff Burnside has been announced as the new head football coach at Novi High School, following former head coach Todd Pennycuff's decision to resign after three seasons to spend more time with his family.

Burnside has been a teacher in the Novi High School science department for more than 10 years and has been the head football coach at Berkley High School for the past two seasons. Before that, he served as an assistant football coach at Novi High School for more than 10 years.

“I am honored and humbled to be coaching back in my home of Novi," Burnside said in a press release. "Our expectation is for the football program is to bring continued pride to our school, our district, and our community."

Burnside will meet with players this week, and a “Meet and Greet the Coach” is also planned for all players and their parents on Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in the Novi High School Auditorium. Players and parents from the Novi Bobcats, Novi Middle School, and Novi High School are invited to attend.

"We're excited," said Novi Athletic Director Brian Gordon. "We know he'll bring passion and enthusiasm not only for the football team but for the kids at Novi."

Novi High School Principal Carol Diglio said she is thrilled for Burnside and for the student athletes.

Find out what's happening in Noviwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Coach Burnside is a man of great character. I anticipate that he will bring his experience, passion, discipline and vision to Novi’s football program. His leadership will serve our young student-athletes well, as he has demonstrated that hard work and tenacity lead to positive results. I am excited to welcome Coach Burnside as Novi’s fourth varsity football coach," she said in the press release.

Burnside has been employed with Novi Community Schools since 1999. While coaching at Novi High School, he served as the defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator. He also coached in the MHSFCA All-Star Game.

“In his interview Mr. Burnside showed a passion for his students and for the game of football,” said Novi Superintendent Dr. Steve Matthews in the press release. “I have been in his classroom. I know he will build positive relationships, challenge, and help develop the young men who play football for Novi High School. I look forward to seeing him on the football field."

Find out what's happening in Noviwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here