WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. — Monmouth University Athletics is mourning the unexpected passing of Defensive Coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr., who was entering his first season as the Hawks' defensive coordinator after serving as linebackers coach during the 2025 season. He was 34.

"On behalf of Monmouth Athletics, we are heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Coach DiRienzo," Director of Athletics Jennifer Sansevero said. "Lou was an outstanding coach, mentor and colleague whose passion for developing young men and love for the game made an immediate impact on our football program. More importantly, he was a kind, genuine person who built meaningful relationships with everyone around him.

"Our hearts are with Lou's family, friends, our football student-athletes and coaching staff, and all those whose lives he touched. The Monmouth community is grieving alongside them, and we will continue to honor Lou's memory through the lasting impact he made on our program and the countless people who had the privilege of knowing him."

DiRienzo joined the Monmouth coaching staff as linebackers coach and defensive run game coordinator in February 2025 before being promoted to defensive coordinator in January 2026.

"Lou was a great person, father and coach," said Hawks head coach Jeff Gallo. "He poured into our players and program, making a tremendous impact during his time here. We are heartbroken for his wife Allie, daughters Giavanna and Audrina, and his entire family. We will support Lou's family and our players through this difficult time and honor him through our daily work. Lou's presence will remain with our team; energy never dies."

In his lone season with the Hawks, DiRienzo helped oversee one of the Coastal Athletic Association's most improved defenses. Monmouth forced 17 turnovers and recorded 31 sacks to rank fourth in the CAA while lowering its points allowed by 5.7 points per game from 2024 to 2025.

Before arriving in West Long Branch, DiRienzo spent five seasons at Springfield College, including four as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. During that span, the Pride captured four consecutive NEWMAC championships and was named the Gridiron Club of New England Division II/III Co-Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023. DiRienzo also served on the staffs at Rutgers University as special teams quality control coach in 2019 and Wagner College as outside linebackers coach in 2018, where he helped mentor Cam Gill to Northeast Conference and ECAC Defensive Player of the Year honors.

A native of Yonkers, New York, DiRienzo starred at nearby New Rochelle High School where he played for his father, legendary head coach Lou DiRienzo Sr., earning All-State, All-County, All-Section and All-League honors. He went on to play linebacker at Southern Connecticut State University, serving as a team captain before earning his bachelor's degree in exercise science in 2016. DiRienzo later completed his master's degree in physical education from Springfield College in 2018.

DiRienzo, 34, is survived by his wife Allie and their twin daughters Audrina and Giavanna, his parents, Carol and Louis DiRienzo Sr., his brother Andrew DiReinzo and his wife, Lou's sister-in-law, Courtney DiRienzo, and his bulldog bestfriend Geno, who meant so much to him. 

Wake and funeral services will be held Thursday and Friday, respectively in Eastchester, New York. 

Monmouth Athletics extends its deepest condolences to the DiRienzo family and all who were fortunate enough to know him.