Big Rapids, MI-- Ferris State University has named GRCC's Tony Annese as their new head football coach at a press conference earlier today. Annese will take the reins after FSU opted to fire long-time coach Jeff Pierce after 17 years.

Annese has proven himself to be an excellent coach at all levels over the years. With stops at Montrose, Ann Arbor Pioneer, Jenison, Muskegon High, and Grand Rapids Community College he has compiled a lifetime record of 195-41 (.827). Under Annese, Muskegon High won 3 Division 2 state championships.

During his time at GRCC Annese has led the Raiders to a 30-4 overall record, including a 11-0 record for the 2011 season. Coach Annese was inducted into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame earlier this year.

After the Bulldogs went 6-5 this past season the school decided to part ways with Coach Jeff Pierce. Under Pierce the team went 102-85 over the course of 17 seasons, making the former coach the winningest in school history.

Much will be expected of Annese as he takes on his first DII coaching position. A spokesman for Ferris State cited Annese's passion for education and young people and ability to create a nurturing environment to foster success as the qualities that set him apart from other leading candidates. With Annese leading the Bulldogs, the team will aim to return to their history of success.