Brett Cooper Named Head Football Coach at Ben Davis High School

Feb. 9, 2026

The M.S.D. of Wayne Township School Board approved the appointment of Brett W. Cooper as the next head football coach at Ben Davis High School at this evening’s board meeting. Cooper brings a distinguished career of building championship programs and developing student-athletes both on and off the field.

A native of Evansville, Indiana, Cooper most recently served as Head Football Coach at Bloomington High School North. His coaching resume includes previous head coaching positions at Perry Meridian High School (2020-2025) and Indian Creek High School (2017-2019), along with extensive assistant coaching experience at the high school and collegiate levels, including positions at Massillon Washington High School (OH), LaSalle High School (OH), Princeton High School (OH), Greenwood High School, and the University of Indianapolis.

Cooper’s foundation in football began at North Park University on the northside of Chicago, where he was a four-year letterwinner in both football as a quarterback and baseball as a pitcher. He holds a bachelor’s degree from North Park University and graduated from Glenbard South High School.

Under Cooper’s leadership at Perry Meridian, the program achieved notable success, including the most wins since 2015 and being tied for the most wins in the past 20 years. His coaching achievements also include leading Indian Creek to WIC Championship and Conference Coach of the Year honors in 2019, and 3x WIC Eastern Conference Champions.

“My family and I are excited about the opportunity to become the next head football coach at Ben Davis High School,” said Cooper. “The tradition that is Ben Davis brings forth a level of expectation that is unmatched throughout the state of Indiana. It is an honor to now be part of a long line of legendary coaches at BD, and I am confident we will continue to build that legacy. We can’t wait to meet the team and get to work.”

Cooper and his wife, Colleen, reside in Indianapolis with their two children, Audrey and Brooks.

Cooper’s coaching philosophy centers on developing championship-level student-athletes through a culture built on core values. His program emphasizes a holistic approach that prioritizes family, academics, and football—in that order. With a motto of “Be The Standard,” Cooper is committed to fostering excellence in the classroom, on the field, and in the community.

Ben Davis Athletic Director Heather McGowan expressed enthusiasm about the appointment. “Coach Cooper comes to us with a proven track record of being student-athlete centered, and a commitment to building not only great football players but more importantly great human beings,” said McGowan. “We are excited to see what he, our staff, and our talented young men will accomplish together as Giants.” 

Ben Davis High School has one of Indiana's most storied football programs, with a rich tradition of excellence and a legacy of developing outstanding student-athletes. The Giants are known throughout the state for their championship culture and commitment to academic and athletic achievement. With Coach Cooper at the helm, the Giants football program looks forward to building on its legacy of excellence for years to come.