Dan Coia, a 2000 gradute of Monmouth University is now in his fourth season as an assistant coach for the Hawks. Along with the everyday operation of the baseball program and recruiting, Coia's focus is on the Hawks' pitching staff and catchers, which has been highlighted by 2002 NEC Pitcher of the Year Jim Carone, All-NEC pticher Andrew Palmieri and all-conference catcher, Mike St. Martine, who was selected in the 12th round of last spring's Major League Draft, by the Montreal Expos.
The Buena, N.J., native brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his current position. Prior to his appointment as assistant coach, Coia was a three-year starter at catcher for head coach Dean Ehehalt.
The 25-year old Coia enjoyed a solid playing career at Monmouth. Coia played in 159 games for a Hawks' squad that registered 104 wins in his tenure. Coia, who even pitched two-thirds of an inning in 1997 (one strikeout) versus Villanova, tallied 127 hits and 74 RBIs in his playing career.
Coia, who was tabbed all-league at Buena H.S. in 1995 and 1996, was recognized as All-South Jersey in 1996, as well. Following his career at Buena, Coia enrolled at Monmouth where he was a part of back-to-back Northeast Conference Championship teams in 1998 and 1999 and helped continue Monmouth?s rise on the national scene.
Coia, who graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in business, currently resides in Deal, N.J.
