WATERLOO - Granted, Justin Penner is a bit short on experience. But his passion for football is hardly short in supply.

That fact, more than anything, is why Penner is Waterloo East's new football coach.

The Courier learned this morning that Penner, a 25-year-old who led Carroll Kuemper the last two seasons, will lead East next fall, pending approval by the Waterloo school board. Penner also must sign a contract before the deal is official.

"I believe a confident environment can be made there (at East)," Penner said. "And I know for a fact that attitude is a thing that will be changed."

Under Penner's guidance, Kuemper reached the Class 2A playoffs the last two seasons.

East, conversely, is trying to rebound and rebuild after enduring a 60-game losing streak that extended into last October, before it beat Dubuque Senior.

"What's been expected of East High football in the past is not a great deal of success," Penner acknowledged. "That's got to change."

Penner, a graduate of both BCLUW High and the University of Dubuque, replaces Charlie Aldrich, who resigned last November after two seasons. Prior to his stint in Carroll, Penner was an assistant at Dyersville Beckman under Mike Cooper, currently the head coach at Iowa City West.

"I will bring a very structured environment (to East) and a lot of passion," Penner promised. "And I truly believe great things are going to happen."

Contact Kelly Beaton at (319) 291-1456 or kelly.beaton@wcfcourier.com