Courtesy of Nick Broughton/ Gloucester Daily Times

Manchester Essex has hired Nicholas Broughton as the school’s new head football coach.

Broughton comes to Manchester Essex after serving as an assistant coach at Marblehead High School, where he served as a key member of the coaching staff as an assistant since 2015.

Broughton replaces Joe Grimes’ who stepped down after five seasons.

“We are excited to officially announce the appointment of Nicholas Broughton as the new head football coach at Manchester Essex Regional High School,” said Hornets’ athletic director Cameron Molinare. “Coach Broughton brings a strong combination of playing experience, coaching expertise, and a deep commitment to student-athlete development. We are confident that his leadership, energy, and passion for the game will have a positive impact on our football program and school community.”

Broughton brings a wealth of playing experience to the Hornets’ sideline, having spent four years as a standout offensive lineman at Merrimack College. He is currently a mathematics teacher at Beverly High School. This blend of academic and collegiate athletic experience is expected to provide a strong foundation for the program moving forward.

Broughton inherits a team with significant momentum and high expectations. The Hornets are fresh off a successful 7-4 campaign that saw them secure a postseason berth in the Division 7 playoffs.

As Broughton takes the reins, he looks to build upon that recent success and steer the Manchester Essex roster toward another deep run in the state tournament.