Marian Catholic Names New Football Coach

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — The Marian Catholic High School football team will begin the 2018 season with a new leader. The Chicago Heights school named assistant coach Erick Middleton as its new head coach. Middleton, who comes from an accomplished Marian Catholic family and a football mind with experience at the high school, collegiate and professional level, will replace Sean Mele.

“Erick’s deep level of experience and his familiarity with the program will make for a smooth transition and his charisma and leadership skills will allow a seamless route to continued rebuilding,” Athletic Director Kevin Kelly said. “He’s been heavily involved with many aspects of the program, including defensive coordinator, game plans, player development and communication with prospective athletes.”

Kelly also praised the outgoing coach. Mele resigned from the head coaching job for personal reasons but will remain with the school as the co-director of admissions.

“Sean has done an outstanding job of getting the Marian program pointed in the right direction,” he said. “He’s worked hand-in-hand with Erick on many aspects of program development, and his hand prints will continue as a strong influence as the football program progresses. Many thanks go to Sean for his guidance, imagination and impact on hundreds of athletes.”

Middleton is a 1998 Marian Catholic alum whose been on the varsity coaching staff since the 2016 season and previously on the staff in 2003 and 2006. He played in the Arena league with three different teams and in NCAA Division I with Eastern Michigan University.

In addition to his time at Marian Catholic, Middleton has coached at Bloom Township High School and Huron High School in Michigan. Now, he will become the ninth coach in Spartans' history.

Middleton's parents are H. Drew and Valerie, both members of the school's hall-of-fame. His brothers Roderick, Cedrick and Derrick were all multi-sport athletes there.

He called it an "honor" to have the opportunity to lead his alma mater's football team.

“I can honestly say that today I have accomplished one of my longtime dreams," he said.

Photo courtesy of Marian Catholic High School