Tony Annese: A Journey of Excellence and Resilience

Early Years and Education

Tony Annese, a graduate of Alma College with a master's degree in educational administration from Central Michigan University, began his coaching career in West Michigan at Muskegon Catholic Central as an assistant. His collegiate football experience at Alma College prepared him well for the intense and demanding world of coaching.

From a young assistant coach in West Michigan to a national presence in collegiate football, Tony Annese continues to define what it means to be a leader, both on and off the field. His story is far from over, but his legacy is already well established.

In the PAST

Coaching Milestones Prior to FSU

Before embarking on his journey at Ferris State University, Annese established himself as a powerhouse in both prep and junior college football. He boasted a cumulative record of 225-45 (.833) as a head coach, making stops at Montrose, Ann Arbor Pioneer, Jenison, and Muskegon High Schools, and at Grand Rapids Community College.

His time at Muskegon High School was especially notable, where he led the Big Reds to a 92-15 record in nine seasons, along with three Division II state titles. These championship seasons ended with unbeaten 14-0 records, earning national recognition.

As a Ferris State Bulldog

Ferris State University Era

Tony Annese was officially announced as the 13th head football coach of Ferris State University on December 22, 2011. He wasted no time in making his presence felt, leading the Bulldogs to a 7-4 overall mark in his first season and gaining a nomination for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. His debut season included wins that snapped decade-long losing streaks against archrivals.

Under Annese's leadership, Ferris State University recorded historic seasons, including the school's first GLIAC Championship since 1999, reached the NCAA Division II Playoffs multiple times, and set school records for regular-season victories. In 2018, the Bulldogs had the most historic season ever, reaching the NCAA Division II National Championship game for the first time, with a remarkable 15-1 overall mark.

A Career of WINNING

Accolades and Recognition

Annese has earned several awards throughout his career, including GLIAC Coach of the Year, Football Gazette Super Region Four Coach of the Year, and Football Gazette Region Coach of the Year honors. Players like Jason Vander Laan have thrived under his leadership, receiving the Harlon Hill Trophy as the Division II Player of the Year twice

More to come...

  • The Man Behind the Whistle

    Known for winning over his players with his intensity, passion, and demand for success, Annese also has a life off the field. He has been married to Christine for nearly 30 years, and the couple has four children. Christine serves as the assistant superintendent for human resources in the Forest Hills School District in Grand Rapids. In addition to his coaching duties, Annese has served as a teacher and an associate professor in the wellness department at Grand Rapids Community College.

  • Legacy and Continuing Impact

    More than just numbers and titles, Tony Annese's career is a tale of building relationships and instilling a culture of excellence wherever he goes. He has helped numerous players move on to play at various levels of college football, thereby extending his impact beyond the field. His coaching philosophies have been so influential that he has been invited to present at numerous football clinics across the country.

  • In The FOLD

    From a young assistant coach in West Michigan to a national presence in collegiate football, Tony Annese continues to define what it means to be a leader, both on and off the field. His story is far from over, but his legacy is already well established.