September 17, 2025

Portage Central Coach Achieves Weekly Coaching Honor

Portage, Michigan, September 17, 2025

News Summary

Mick Enders, head coach of the Portage Central High School football team, has been named the recipient of the Detroit Lions High School Football Coach of the Week award. His Mustangs team secured a significant victory against Stevensville Lakeshore, maintaining a perfect record so far this season. With an impressive coaching career spanning over two decades, Enders has led his team to numerous playoff appearances, showcasing both athletic skill and character development among his players.

Portage Central Coach Named High School Football Coach of the Week

Portage, Michigan—Mick Enders, the head coach of the Portage Central High School football team, has been honored as the week three recipient of the 2025 Detroit Lions High School Football Coach of the Week Program, presented by Carhartt. This recognition comes on the heels of Enders leading the Mustangs to a decisive 57-0 victory over Stevensville Lakeshore, maintaining their unblemished record of 3-0 this season.

Outstanding Performance by the Mustangs

The Portage Central Mustangs have demonstrated remarkable prowess on the field this season, amassing a total of 143 points across their three games while not allowing any points against them. Currently ranked #3 in Division 2, the Mustangs are set to face Battle Creek Central on September 19th, an upcoming game that marks the 37th all-time meeting between the two teams.

Enders’ Experience and Success

Mick Enders boasts a distinguished coaching career that spans 26 seasons, all of which have been spent at Portage Central. Presently in his 16th season as the head coach of the Mustangs, he has successfully guided the team to the playoffs 13 times. Under his leadership, the Mustangs made it to the semifinals in 2013 and reached the regional finals in both 2021 and 2024. Enders holds an impressive career coaching record of 109 wins and 49 losses, giving him a winning percentage of 69.0%.

About the Coach of the Week Program

The Detroit Lions High School Football Coach of the Week Program aims to recognize coaches who achieve success on the field while also developing player character and prioritizing health and safety. Each week, a panel of high school football media members selects the winning coach, who receives a certificate endorsed by Lions’ head coach Dan Campbell and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. As part of the program, a total of $12,000 will be awarded this season to bolster high school football development in Michigan, with each recipient receiving a $1,000 donation to their school’s football program.

Impact of the Program

At the conclusion of the season, the Detroit Lions will select a High School Football Coach of the Year, who will receive a $3,000 donation to their respective school. Over the past 29 years, the program has made a substantial impact, contributing a total of $515,000 to high school football programs throughout Michigan.

Looking Ahead

As Mick Enders prepares for the upcoming game against Battle Creek Central, the opportunity to reflect on his connection to Portage Central, his team’s strong showing this season, and his commitment to fostering a positive and safe sporting environment remains at the forefront. His selection as Coach of the Week represents not only his individual accomplishments but also the dedication and hard work of the entire Portage Central football program.