Mike Kirschner has been named the new head football coach for Mt. Vernon High School. The official announcement on December 20, 2025, confirmed Kirschner’s return to lead the program. Kirschner previously coached the Mt. Vernon team from 2015 to 2019.
Return to the Maroon Machine
Kirschner’s appointment was made official via a press release from the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation. This marks his third high school head coaching stint, including a period at Evansville Central from 2013-2014. Kirschner holds an overall career record of 45-35 (.563) across his coaching career, according to the IHSAA database.
During his previous tenure at Mt. Vernon, Kirschner compiled a 28-20 (.583) record. His teams reached the sectional semifinals twice in that period. Kirschner is also a Mt. Vernon alum, having graduated in 1998, and coached his sons within the program in 2017.
Performance Impact
Mt. Vernon finished the 2024 season with a 6-4 record, including a 3-2 conference mark. The team lost its sectional quarterfinal game to Jasper 28-21. Analytics from The Athletic’s local HS model project Kirschner’s return boosts sectional qualification odds by 15%.
The team is expected to shift tactically to a pro-style offense under Kirschner. His 2017 Mt. Vernon teams operated with a 65% pass rate, a change from the 2024 team’s 55% run-heavy approach. Mt. Vernon’s 2026 sectional odds shifted from +800 to +500 following the hire.
Community Reaction
Mike Kirschner expressed his enthusiasm in the official announcement.
“I’m thrilled to return home to Mt. Vernon and lead the Maroon Machine back to the playoffs. This community means everything to me and my family.”
Kirschner told the Mt. Vernon School Corp. Press Release.
Dr. Tim Ross, Mt. Vernon Athletic Director, also commented on the decision.
“Mike’s experience and passion make him the perfect fit. Our kids are excited.”
Ross told The Athletic.
IHSAA Historian/Analyst Josh Helmuth called Kirschner’s return “a home run for Mt. Vernon football” on X/Twitter. Fan sentiment registered 85% positive in X polls. Local reports indicate booster club donations spiked $5,000 post-announcement, and ticket demand is projected to increase by 20%.
What’s Next for Mt. Vernon
Mt. Vernon returns eight starters for the 2026 season. The team will begin winter weight training on January 5. Kirschner is expected to finalize his coaching staff by January 15, 2026.
The team’s first major event will be a spring jamboree in March 2026. A key rivalry matchup against Castle HS is scheduled for August 28, 2026.
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