Penrod returns to alma mater, aims to rebuild winning tradition

EAST PRAIRIE, Mo. — The winds of change are blowing in East Prairie, bringing a sense of optimism and excitement as Ian Penrod, fresh off an impressive four-year stint at Portageville, returns to his roots to lead the Eagles’ athletic programs to new heights.

Penrod will take over as head coach for the football and track and field teams, injecting a fresh perspective and proven playbook into the heart of the athletics program.

“It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve made,” Penrod said. “Over the last four years, I had the privilege of working with amazing kids and families in the community. Portageville will always hold a special place in my and my family’s hearts.”

Penrod’s impact on the Portageville offense was nothing short of extraordinary. In just four seasons, he transformed a team that averaged a paltry 16.8 points per game in 2019 into a state-leading scoring machine, averaging 49.9 points per game in 2023. This remarkable 33.1-point per game increase is a testament to Penrod’s coaching astuteness and ability to maximize his players’ talents.

Penrod’s arrival in 2020 didn’t just revolutionize the offense; it galvanized the defense as well. In 2019, the Bulldogs surrendered a staggering 43.4 points per game. Under Penrod’s guidance, the defense transformed into an impenetrable fortress, allowing a mere 10.8 points per game in 2023.

Penrod has cemented his reputation with an overall record of 28-16 at Portageville, including back-to-back 10-win seasons and a district championship in 2022 which was the program’s first since 2002.

However, for Penrod, this homecoming represents more than just a career move.

A graduate of East Prairie High School, where he starred as a two-way lineman, Penrod spent 11 years as an assistant coach at his alma mater before taking the reins at Portageville.

His deep roots in the community and his commitment to developing student-athletes make him the ideal figure to usher in a new era of Eagle athletics.

“I always loved how the whole community seemed to be involved,” he said.

The decision to return to East Prairie was also driven by a desire to be closer to his family. Penrod and his wife recently welcomed their third child, and the daily commute to Portageville had become increasingly challenging.

With his proven track record of success, his passion for the game, and his deep connection to the community, Penrod’s return has sparked a wave of optimism among East Prairie fans.

As the Eagles prepare to take flight under their new leader, the future of East Prairie football and track and field looks brighter than ever.

“The East Prairie program is exciting to me because it’s a program that matters to me,” Penrod said. “I played and coached in that program and want to do anything I can to help it be the best.

"I hope fans turn out and support the kids and the hard work that is expected of them to be successful,” he concluded. “At the end of the day, I want East Prairie football to be known for effort and physicality. If we are known for those two things that’s a great foundation to build a program with.”

The new coach is enthusiastic about the program’s potential, viewing the large number of middle school players and freshmen as a promising foundation for the future, while also recognizing the value of the experienced upperclassmen who offer immediate leadership and stability on the field. This blend of young talent and seasoned veterans provides a unique opportunity to build a sustainable winning culture.

"The East Prairie School District is excited to announce the hiring of Ian Penrod as the head football coach for the upcoming 2024 season," said East Prairie Athletic Director Casey Knight."Coach Penrod started as an assistant at East Prairie and we are excited for his return home after leading a very successful Portageville program. Coach Penrod brings a wealth of experience and proven work ethic, dedication, and direction back to EP that will positively impact our athletes."