Curt Cignetti has been making headlines lately, and for good reason. The Indiana Hoosiers’ head coach recently signed a six-year, $45 million extension, solidifying his position as the man tasked with leading the program into a new era of success. Yet, behind the scenes of his rapid ascent in Bloomington lies a surprising influence: his wife, Manette.
In a candid interview following his lucrative contract extension, Cignetti didn’t shy away from discussing the pivotal role Manette has played in his life and career. “Manette has been my anchor,” he said. “Every major decision I’ve made, from taking jobs to the way I run a program, she’s been there to provide wisdom and perspective.”
The Cignetti name is steeped in football tradition. Curt’s father, Frank Cignetti Sr., is a College Football Hall of Famer, and his brother, Frank Jr., has carved out his own coaching career. But Manette’s role in Indiana’s unexpected turnaround offers a unique angle to Curt’s success story—a blend of family values, off-the-field stability, and a sharp eye for the human side of coaching.
Manette Cignetti’s influence isn’t limited to personal encouragement. Curt credits her with shaping his approach to building team culture, emphasizing accountability, relationships, and player development over pure X’s and O’s.
“She’s always reminding me to think about the person behind the player,” Curt shared. “Manette has a way of making me see the bigger picture—how these young men are going to remember their time here, not just their win-loss record.”
According to sources close to the program, Manette often attends team events and has developed personal relationships with players and their families. “Coach Cignetti is like a father figure to us, but Mrs. Cignetti? She’s like the team mom,” said one player. “She makes you feel seen and valued beyond football.”
This emphasis on fostering a supportive environment has translated into tangible results. Indiana, a program that struggled to find its footing in the hyper-competitive Big Ten, has shown marked improvement under Cignetti’s leadership. The Hoosiers are not only winning more games but are also excelling in player retention, academic achievement, and overall morale.
When Cignetti arrived in Bloomington, Indiana was in dire straits. The team had endured multiple losing seasons, and fan enthusiasm had waned. But in just two years, Cignetti has revitalized the program, leading the Hoosiers to their first bowl game in four years and reinvigorating a fanbase hungry for success.
A cornerstone of his strategy has been the recruitment of high-character players and staff—a principle Manette helped instill. “Curt and I talked a lot about finding people who fit the culture he wanted to create,” Manette revealed in a rare interview. “It’s not just about talent; it’s about integrity, resilience, and a willingness to grow.”
This philosophy has paid dividends. Indiana has not only seen improved performances on the field but has also experienced a surge in community engagement and alumni support. The $45 million extension is a reflection of the administration’s confidence in Cignetti’s ability to sustain this momentum.
For Curt, Manette’s influence extends beyond the gridiron. She has been a steadying force throughout the ups and downs of his coaching career, which has included stops at James Madison, Elon, and Alabama.
“Coaching can consume you,” Cignetti admitted. “There are days when the pressure feels overwhelming, but Manette keeps me grounded. She reminds me that at the end of the day, it’s about people—our family, our players, and our staff.”
Manette’s role as a sounding board has also helped Curt navigate the complexities of managing a high-profile program like Indiana. Whether it’s handling the pressures of recruiting or making tough personnel decisions, her insights have proven invaluable.
As the Hoosiers prepare for the next chapter under Cignetti’s leadership, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on his coaching acumen and ability to elevate the program. But behind the scenes, Manette’s influence will continue to shape Indiana’s trajectory in subtle yet meaningful ways.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without her,” Curt said. “She’s my partner in everything, and this program is better because of her.”
With a $45 million contract and a team on the rise, Curt Cignetti’s Indiana tenure is poised for great things. Yet, it’s clear that the driving force behind his success isn’t just strategy or execution—it’s the unwavering support of his wife, Manette, and the values she brings to the table. Together, the Cignettis are proving that the key to turning a program around lies in more than just football—it lies in family.