GISH Officially Names Jeff McQuinn Head Football Coach

GRAND ISLAND, NEB. — Islander football will continue under the leadership of a familiar face.

After serving as interim head coach during the 2025 season, Grand Island Senior High has officially named Jeff McQuinn the Head Football Coach. 

McQuinn is a strength coach at Grand Island Senior High and has been on the Islander coaching staff for 12 years. Prior to serving as interim head coach this year, he coached the Outside Linebackers position since he joined GISH. He also served as the GISH Reserve Football head coach for eight years, and as the Special Teams Coordinator for the past two years. 

As a player, McQuinn played for Lewis Central High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He attended Peru State College from 2003-2008 and played defensive line for the Bobcats. Following his college career, he went on to play indoor football in Council Bluffs for the Iowa Blackhawks until 2012.

Looking ahead, Coach McQuinn is excited about the opportunity to continue leading the GISH football program. 

“It's an honor to officially be named the next GISH head football coach,” McQuinn shared. “I am grateful that our administration felt that I was the right choice. I am lucky to have coaches on the staff that share the same vision and we look forward to getting us back where we know we can be,” McQuinn said.  

Chris Ladwig, GISH Activities Director, said he is confident in McQuinn’s leadership.

“We’re excited to have Coach McQuinn continue to lead the Islanders,” Ladwig stated. “His passion for developing student-athletes on and off the field is what we want our football program to continue to build on. He has brought stability to our program, and with his vision, we are excited to carry on the tradition of excellence,” he said.

Grand Island Public Schools and Islander Nation are proud to officially welcome Coach McQuinn as our head coach!