Curt Cignetti Refueling Indiana Hoosiers With Excitement

© Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

Former James Madison University (JMU) coach Curt Cignetti enters his inaugural season with the Indiana Hoosiers.

Cignetti brings a wave of momentum to IU, fresh off an impressive 11-1 season with JMU. He was joined by his linebacker Aiden Fisher, JMU transfer, who’s ready to make an impact. Under Cignetti's leadership, the Hoosiers are set for a new era, embracing a fresh culture, mindset and heightened expectations.

Cignetti kicked off his first season as the Hoosier's coach at the final day of the Big Ten Conference Media Days in Idianapolis on July 25.

Self-Imposed Limitations

The Hoosiers enter the 2024 season with a dramatically reshaped roster, featuring the most transfers in the Big Ten with 31. Cignetti emphasized a direct and honest approach in his dealings, instilling confidence in his team. He is focused on enhancing the team's consistency and performance, while also prioritizing the development of intangibles, player skills and effective schemes. This comprehensive overhaul aims to establish a new foundation for the program and set the stage for future success.

“Somebody asked me, how do you define success in Indiana? I was like, well, we want to be the best. I mean, you don’t bring your kids up, Johnny, I want you to be fourth best," he said. "I want you to be 10th best. Bulls--t. We want to be 'The' best. So when I talk about no self-imposed limitations, that’s what I’m talking about.”

Growing Excitement for Hoosiers

In front of the Hoosier basketball crowd last December, Cignetti fired up the crowd, “I don’t take a backseat to anybody and don’t plan on starting now.” The crowd erupted as he continued, “Purdue sucks .. but so does Michigan and Ohio State!”

Humorously referring back to his comment, “ I’ve kind of had to speak a big game taking over the job like this because we had to wake some people up and create some excitement, and after all, this is the entertainment business too," Cignetti said.

Cignetti has embraced the challenge of revitalizing a program that has struggled to compete consistently. His leadership style aims to foster a winning mentality among players and fans alike.

While the journey ahead is challenging, it is clear that Cignetti is ready to roll with the punches and elevate Indiana football to new heights.