East Central University Athletics

Football Tabbed Ninth in GAC Preseason Coaches Poll

8/1/2024 2:42:00 PM

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - The Great American Conference announced the results of its preseason coaches poll for the 2024 season, and East Central University was picked to finish ninth. The league released the rankings on Thursday, reflecting the votes of the GAC's 12 head coaches.

At the top of the poll, reigning NCAA Division II National Champions Harding University enters as the favorites with 120 total points, including 10 first-place votes, while Ouachita Baptist and Southern Arkansas followed in line with one first-place vote each.
 
Following a rebuilding year in 2023, the Tigers are focused on turning the page and approaching the 2024 season with renewed determination and optimism as they look ahead.
 
John Litrenta steps into his first official season as Head Coach, having served in the role as interim last year.
 
"I am excited for the opportunity we have this 2024 season," said Litrenta. "This team we have now has been focusing on what we can control and to be better each day. What I have seen gives me great confidence in them. Camp and the preseason will be vital for us to continue to sharpen and develop depth."
 
Under Litrenta's leadership, ECU will introduce a fresh look, supported by the recruitment of 42 student-athletes from the 2024 signing class and the strengthening of their coaching staff with several key hires and promotions, including quarterbacks coach Rich Stammetti, wide receivers coach Christopher Bolden, running backs graduate assistant coach Daniel Wright, Tight Ends graduate assistant coach Jackson Mitchell, and elevated full-time linebackers coach Broderic Odom.
 
The Tigers also return a solid core of players who are expected to continue making their mark. On defense, cornerback Gio Waller, defensive end / outside linebacker Darian Williams, defensive end Prince Umanmielen, and safety Tavare Smith Jr. will anchor the strong defensive unit, while offensive lineman Ty Dodd, offensive lineman Tyson Johnson, tight end Jackson Allen, and wide receiver Hayden Stewart will lead the offense. Transfer wide receiver KJ Peoples is also poised to make an immediate impact in his debut season with the Tigers.
 
ECU will kick off the 2024 season at home against Henderson State University on Thursday, Sept. 5^th at 6 pm inside Koi Ishto Stadium. Other home games this season will feature matchups against Southwestern, Arkansas-Monticello, Northwestern, Harding, and Southeastern.