As the 2024 high school football season nears, a new era for East Noble football is set to begin as well.
Alex Stewart is the new head coach of the Knights program, after longtime coach Luke Amstutz was elevated to the school's athletic director.
"I reached out to Luke and talked to him a little bit about the job," Stewart tells PSM. "And I knew this was something I definitely wanted to do."
Stewart makes the move to Kendallville after seven seasons at Western High School, near Kokomo, where he won 44 games. Before that, he went 10-10 in two seasons at Kokomo Northwestern.
"I had the opportunity to get up here in the spring and work with these guys on Monday nights during our spring practices. I was in and out of the building during the day. was in and out of lunches and weightroom classes, and meet with them."
East Noble started is spring football in June, and Stewart says the kids have responded well to the transition to a new coach.
The Knights graduated significant contributions from last year's Northeast 8 Conference championship team, including eight All-Conference players (six 1st Team, two 2nd Team). Returning is senior Dylan Krehl, who rushed for 635 yards and scored 16 total touchdowns at running back and led the team with 88 tackles at linebacker.
Wide receiver Mason Treesh, wide receiver/safety Logan Hatton and defensive end/tight end Pace Agee join Krehl in the senior Class of 2025.
"A couple coaches who I really respect just rave about how great this place is," Stewart adds. "I've met so many great people already, and I'm excited to get the season rolling."
East Noble hosts Bremen in the season-opener August 23.