Monmouth University Men's Football

Callahan, whose 131 wins is 13th among active coaches at the FCS level, ushered in a new era for MU football when the Hawks joined the Big South Conference in 2014. Beginning his 24th season at the helm of the Hawks, Callahan has amassed a 131-108 record while his teams have captured five conference titles. Along the way, Monmouth has been ranked among the top 20 in total offense on two occasions and in total defense five times. Meanwhile, over 120 players have earned conference recognition, while numerous Hawks have earned regional and national honors. Regarded as an outstanding coach by his peers, Callahan served as the President of the FCS Football Coaches Committee in 2007-08 and served a 10 year term as a member of the committee. Under his watch, six former Hawks have earned spots on NFL rosters, including Miles Austin who was an All-Pro wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. Academically, Callahans squads have consistently performed at a high level. Eight players have been named to the prestigious FCS ADA Academic All-Star team (average of 55 FCS players selected per season) a total 11 times. Monmouth has had at least one representative on the Capital One Academic All-District Team for each of the last 16 seasons, including three-time selection Joe Johnson who was also a two-time Big South All-Academic Team member. Monmouth has ranked second among Big South schools in the NCAAs Academic Progress Rate (APR) in each of the first two seasons the Hawks have been in the league. While a member of the Northeast Conference, Monmouth averaged 20 players per year on the Academic Honor Roll (greater than a 3.2 cumulative gpa), and owned the highest team grade point average in two of its final three seasons in the league. The 2015 campaign set a number of firsts for the program, including the Hawks first game against an Football Bowl Subdivision opponent and its first win over a ranked opponent. Callahan and the Blue & White tripled its conference win total in just its second year in the Big South, finishing with a 3-3 record and a third place conference finish. On October 17 Monmouth upset conference foe and No. 22 ranked Liberty 20-17 in overtime, giving the program its first win over a ranked opponent. One week later the Hawks would host top-ranked Coastal Carolina, falling to the Chanticleers on a last second field goal. In all, Monmouth faced a ranked opponent in four of its 11 games in 2015 while also playing Central Michigan on September first in MU's first contest against an FBS squad. Seven Hawks earned All-Big South Honors while sophomore Mike Basile was named All-Big South and All-ECAC Second Team. Academically, Joe Johnson earned Academic All-District II and was named to the Big South Academic All-Star Team for the second consecutive year. Callahan led the Hawks to a 6-5 record in 2014, including the programs first Big South Conference win on November 22, 2014 against Gardner-Webb. Six student-athletes earned All-Big South honors, including freshman safety Mike Basile and senior wide receiver Neal Sterling being named First Team. Basile was also named Big South Rookie of the Year, while running back Lavon Chaney became the first newcomer to lead the league in all-purpose yards in six years.Off the field Joe Johnson was named to both the Big South and Capitol One All-District II Academic teams. In 2013, Monmouth's first season as an independent since the 1995 season, the Hawks faced their most daunting schedule. Playing a 12-game regular season for the first time in program history, the Hawks opened with No. 2 Montana State- the highest ranked opponent that MU had faced at that point. The season also saw the Hawks host an Ivy League opponent for the first time, with Monmouth handing Cornell a 48-23 loss on Homecoming. Monmouth also dispatched Holy Cross in their first meeting and defeated former conference rival Wagner during the season. Individually, the Hawks boasted the only running back tandem in the FCS with two 1,000-yard seasons. Additionally, junior quarterback Brandon Hill threw for the second most yardage and touchdowns in school history. Redshirt freshman Darnell Leslie registered the most sacks in a season since the 2003 season. Academically, a team-record four players earned a spot on the Capital One Academic All-District team and Monmouth had a FCS NACDA Academic All-Star for the third straight season. The 2012 campaign saw the Hawks defeat a Colonial Athletic Association team for the second straight season with a 41-6 rout of The University of Rhode Island. Individually, quarterback Kyle Frazier finished his career by rewriting many single season Monmouth records while six Hawks earned all-conference honors. Once again the Hawks were impressive in the classroom, with the team registering an overall grade point average of 2.99 and 15 Hawks earning NEC Academic Honor Roll. Five players made it to the commissioners honor roll, while three Hawks earned a spot on the Capital One Academic All-District team, the 13th consecutive season MU was represented on the list. In 2011 the Hawks posted a undefeated record on the road for just the third time in program history, going a perfect 5-0.  On September 17th, the Hawks knocked off 2012 NCAA Semifinalist Villanova, 20-9 for one of the marquee wins in the program's short history. MU had five players on the All-NEC Teams, including wide receiver Neal Sterling who was named NEC Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Hawks also boasted a pair of finalists for Jerry Rice Award, given to the nation's top FCS freshman.  MU was the only team with more than one player named as a finalist. Senior captain Jose Gumbs, a three-time all-league selection, capped off his stellar career by being named Third Team All-America while finishing third all-time in tackles. Academically, 22 players earned Dean's List Honors while 27 members of the team were named to the NEC Academic Honor Roll.  Five Hawks earned All-Northeast Conference honors in 2010 the Hawks were four points away from posting seven wins, with four one-point losses.  Off the field Callahan's team had the best grade point average among all the Northeast Conference football squads while a member of the Hawks earned CoSIDA Academic All-District honors for the 11th straight season.  Six different players earned a spot on the All-NEC teams, including offensive guard Shawn Wright's fourth consecutive honor. On Oct. 31, 2009, Callahan and the Monmouth program reached another milestone as the Hawks recorded the 100th win in program history with a win over Bryant University at Kessler Field.  Defensive back Jose Gumbs earned Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Year as a redshirt sophomore; while five other Hawks earn spots on NEC All-Conference teams.  David Sinisi ended his career by breaking over 30 school records, while becoming the NEC all-time leader in scoring and rushing yards.  The two-time Walter Payton Award candidate led all active Division I football players (FBS and FCS) in scoring and led all active FCS players in yards rushing, rushing yards per game and rushing touchdowns.   Academically, 22 Hawks were named to the NEC Academic Honor Roll and Jon Stolarz and Andrew Musick were two of just 53 FCS players named to the NACDA Academic All-Star Team. Callahan led the Hawks to their 10th winning season in 2008, finishing with a 7-4 overall record and a 6-1 NEC mark.  Monmouth started the season with three straight losses, including losing to the CAA's Rhode Island and NCAA playoff team Maine by a total of seven points, but rallied to win seven of its final eight games.  In conference play, the Hawks outscored their opponents 210-134, losing only to eventual league champion Albany.  Monmouth's first victory of the season, a 30-17 win over Bryant on Sept. 20, was also a milestone for Callahan, who tallied his 90th career coaching win.  MU earned three major conference awards for the first time in program history, with Sinisi (then a junior) earning Offensive Player of the Year after finishing second in the NCAA in rushing.  Sinisi, who ended the season tied for first among all FCS players in scoring, was one of 16 players in the nation named to the Walter Payton Award watch list.   Gumbs was named Defensive Rookie of the Year while nine total Hawks earned All-NEC honors.  In the classroom, Kevin Walsh, the Defensive Player of the Year, and center Andrew Musick, were named to ESPN the Magazine Academic All-District II team for the second straight year. The 2007 season found the Hawks facing one of their toughest schedules, including a road contest against Delaware, who went on to the FCS National Championship game.  Callahan's squad lost half of its starters from 2006's NEC Championship team but armed with a load of young talent, the Hawks won three of their last four games and had 10 athletes recognized as all-conference performers.  Callahan's squad boasted the top passing attack in the NEC, while Monmouth's turnover margin of +12 was 12th in all of the Football Championship Subdivision.  Monmouth's defense, complete with nine new starters, allowed the fewest first downs among conference members. Off the field, Callahan had 16 student athletes named to the NEC Fall Academic Honor Roll.  Two of those players, juniors Kevin Walsh and Andrew Musick, were named to ESPN the Magazine Academic All-District II, with Walsh being one of 54 players nationally named to the NACDA Division I Academic All-Star Team. In 2006, Callahan led the Hawks to their first ever outright Northeast Conference Championship, their third in four years.  Monmouth finished the season going 10-2 overall and 6-1 in conference play, earning a bid to play in the first ever Gridiron Classic, which was held at Kessler Field.  The Blue & White defense finished first in Division I-AA in scoring defense, allowing just 12.67 points per game.  A number of Hawks earned individual awards in 2006, with three players being named to the Sports Network Mid-Major All-America teams and three players named All-East Region from Don Hansen's football Gazette.  Callahan also earned his third NEC Coach of the Year award, as the Hawks placed 11 players on the All-Conference teams.  He was inducted to the Jersey Shore Hall of Fame after the 2006 season. Coach Callahan's squads also excelled in 2003 and 2004. In 2004, the Hawks won their first-ever I-AA Mid-Major National Championship as they were award The Sports Network Cup following a 10-1 campaign. The 2004 season also brought MU their second consecutive NEC title and the fourth in the program's history with a 6-1 mark in league action. In 2003, Callahan led the Blue and White to its first-ever post-season action, a 12-10 loss to Duquesne in the ECAC Football Classic. Along the way, he coached Monmouth to the best start in school history (8-0) and the most wins in school annals (10-2). With the success, which included a share of the school's third league title, Callahan was named the NEC Coach of the Year for the second time in his career.  He was also named Coach of the Year by the New Jersey Sports Writers Association. In 1998, Callahan was first recognized for his coaching excellence as he was tabbed the NEC Coach of the Year after leading the Hawks to their second NEC championship in three years. The team established over 30 new school records that season and featured one of the top offenses and defenses in Division I-AA. Prior to accepting the head coaching position at Monmouth in August of 1992, Callahan served as assistant coach at Colgate University for eight seasons. While with the Raiders, Callahan served as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator, while tutoring the linebackers and secondary. He also coordinated recruiting efforts for Colgate. Callahan coached 11 All-Patriot League players as the Raiders' defensive coordinator. Colgate allowed just 111.9 rushing yards per game in 1987 to rank ninth in the country. In 1990, CU was among the nation's leaders in total defense and set a team record for fewest total yards allowed in an 11-game season. Callahan groomed his defensive coordinating skills at Wagner College from 1981 to 1983. During his three seasons with the Seahawks, Callahan served as defensive coordinator, linebackers coach and recruiting coordinator. In his three seasons at the Staten Island school, the Seahawks compiled a 25-4-2 record and were ranked in the top 10 in Division III each of his three seasons. In 1983, Wagner reached the quarterfinals of the Division III playoffs. In 1980, Callahan served as an assistant coach under Frank Maloney at Syracuse University. He served as the assistant offensive backfield coach for the Orangemen. A native of Elmira, N.Y., Callahan began his coaching career as a graduate assistant for three seasons at the University of Albany from 1977 to 1979. In 1977 he served as the Great Danes' offensive backfield coach as they advanced to the semifinals of the Division III playoffs. In 1978 and 1979, Callahan served as outside linebackers coach. Callahan was a two-year standout on the playing field at the University of Rochester. He roamed the Yellowjackets' defensive backfield from 1975 to 1976. He earned a bachelor's degree in history from Rochester in 1977. Callahan and his wife, Ann Marie, reside in Spring Lake Heights. They have two children, Kevin Jr. who is an offensive assistant at Columbia University and Julia. CAREER COACHING RECORDS: [OVERALL/ CONFERENCE RECORD} 1993: 2-5 1994: 7-2 1995: 7-3 Monmouth Joins the Northeast Conference 1996: 7-3 / 3-1 (1st) 1997: 5-4 / 3-1 (2nd) 1998: 5-5 / 4-1 (1st) 1999: 2-8 / 2-5 (6th) 2000: 5-6 / 4-4 (5th) 2001: 7-3 / 5-2 (3rd) 2002: 2-8 / 2-5 (6th) 2003: 10-2 / 6-1 (1st) 2004: 10-1 / 6-1 (1st) 2005: 6-4 / 4-3 (3rd) 2006: 10-2/6-1 (1st) 2007: 4-6/3-3 (3rd) 2008: 7-4/6-1 (2nd) 2009: 5-6/4-4 (5th) 2010: 3-8/3-5 (6th) 2011: 5-6/4-4 (4th) 2012: 5-5/4-3 (3rd) 69-45 Northeast Conference Record 2013: 6-6 (Independent) Monmouth Joins the Big South Conference 2014: 6-5/1-4 (4th in the Big South) 2015: 5-6/3-3 (3rd) TOTALS: 131-108 / 73-52 (Conference Record)

Mark Bryson was named the head women's golf coach in July 2022. “I am excited to name Mark Bryson the next head women’s golf coach here at Monmouth,” said Director of Athletics Jeff Stapleton. “Mark has a strong background in the game having been a contributor to the golf community for over 30 years. His knowledge of the New Jersey golf landscape is a tremendous asset and we are excited for him to lead this program into a new chapter in the CAA.”   Bryson has spent 18 seasons at Jumping Brook, and is currently in the role of PGA Director of Golf at the Neptune, NJ club. He has worked in several capacities there, including Membership Director, and supervises a staff of 20 that includes Assistant Golf Professionals, Membership Coordinator, Golf Operations and Clubhouse support personnel.   "I am honored and excited to take over the Women's Golf Program at Monmouth,” said Bryson. “We have a veteran team that is built to move into our first year in the CAA and I can't wait to get started."    Bryson has experience at Monmouth with the golf programs, spending time as a volunteer assistant coach with both the women’s and men’s programs in the recent past. Most notably, he worked alongside former men’s head coach Dennis Shea from 2013-2018 in a volunteer role.   A graduate of Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC, Bryson worked at several different golf clubs along the east coast before his time at Jumping Brook, including nearby Metedeconk National.    

A former all-conference player for the Hawks and veteran of the Monmouth coaching staff, Jeff Gallo was named Offensive Coordinator In the Spring of 2019. The 2025 season will be Gallo's 21st on the Monmouth sidelines, sixth as Offensive Coordinator and second as Associate Head Coach. Gallo also coaches the Monmouth tight ends, a position he has held since 2007. Under Gallo, who was a finalist for FootballScoop.com’s FCS Coordinator of the Year award, Monmouth’s offense put together a historic 2024 season, establishing itself as one of the most explosive units in the FCS. The Hawks led the CAA and ranked among the nation’s top 10 in multiple statistical categories, finishing first in the FCS in total offense and fourth-down conversions while ranking second in scoring offense and passing offense. Quarterback Derek Robertson orchestrated the attack, earning CAA Offensive Player of the Year honors after leading the nation in passing yards per game and total offense, while finishing as a finalist for the Walter Payton Award. Running back Sone Ntoh powered the ground game, leading the FCS in scoring, total touchdowns, and rushing touchdowns. Monmouth made history with its first-ever FBS victory, a thrilling 45-42 win over FIU, and capped the year by knocking off two ranked opponents, including a 40-33 victory over No. 8/9 Villanova and a 55-47 road win at No. 20/18 Stony Brook. The Hawks’ success was recognized with seven offensive All-CAA selections, including first-team all-conference honors for Robertson and Ntoh. That duo earned All-American consideration along with freshman All-American awards for Rodney Nelson and Tra Neal. The 2023 season saw Monmouth's offense continue its success from the 2022 campaign. The Hawks ranked 12th in total offense (431.5 ypg) and 13th in scoring offense (32.5 ppg) thanks in large part to a pair of consensus First Team All-Americans in running back Jaden Shirden and wide receiver Dymere Miller. Shirden finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting after leading the country in rushing for the second consecutive season (134.4 ypg), while Miller was first in the FCS in receiving in both total yards (1,293) and yards per game (117.5). Shirden once again headlined Monmouth's CAA award winners as the Offensive Player of the Year, while Miller joined him on the First Team. Running back Sone Ntoh and offensive lineman Greg Anderson earned Second Team honors. In addition, graduate center Tyler Williams made the Third Team. Monmouth's offense did not miss a beat in its first season in the Colonial Athletic Association in 2022, highlighted by the emergence of Shirden, a consensus All-American selection at running back. Shirden finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting after he led the entire country in rushing at the end of the regular season, including FBS running backs, with 1,722 yards. His 8.4 yards per carry and 156.5 rushing yards per game were both tops in the FCS, earning him CAA Offensive Player of the Year honors. Shirden averaged an impressive 52.8 yards on 13 touchdown runs, including eight 50+ yard touchdown runs, and added 13 touchdowns. In addition to Shirden's dominance, fellow running back Owen Wright joined Shirden on the first team, while Miller earned second team honors. Offensive linemen Greg Anderson and Justin Szuba both were voted Third Team All-CAA. Monmouth's offensive attack led the CAA and ranked in the top 15 nationally in total offense (461.7 ypg) and scoring offense (36.4 ppg) in 2022. In 2021, Monmouth's offense, the top scoring unit in the Big South Conference with 32 points per game, had eight of its 11 starters earn all-league honors. Five Hawks were named First Team All-Big South, including quarterback Tony Muskett, running back Juwon Farri, wide receiver Lonnie Moore IV and offensive linemen AJ Farris and OL Mahmoud Shabana. Farris went on to be named the Rimington Trophy Award winner, given to the FCS's top center, for the second consecutive season. In the Spring 2021 campaign where the Monmouth offense finished 11th in the nation in points per game (35.0) and ranked in the top-20 in passing offense (17th) and rushing offense (18th). Running back Juwon Farri, the Big South Offensive Player of the Year, was the NCAA statistical champion in scoring, a consensus Second Team All-America selection and ranked in the top three nationally in a number of rushing categories. Quarterback Tony Muskett claimed the Big South Offensive Freshman of the Year award en route to a fifth-place finish for the Jerry Rice Award (FCS Freshman of the Year). Gallo's debut season as Monmouth's Offensive Coordinator was the historic 2019 season, one in which the offense set or broke over 50 team and individual records. The Hawks captured their first of consecutive Big South Championships while averaging 35.8 points per game which was 13th nationally. Running back Pete Guerriero led the nation in rushing yards with 1,995 while finishing third in the voting for the Walter Payton Award, the Football Championship Subdivision's most valuable player. The consensus All-American set the school records for rushing and all-purpose yards en route to being named FCS ADA Running Back of the Year. Quarterback Kenji Bahar, MU's first Big South Offensive Player of the Year, rewrote the Monmouth passing record book and finished eighth in the voting for the Payton Award, marking the first time the Hawks had two players as finalists for the prestigious honor. In all, the Monmouth offense boasted six All-Americans and nine of the 11 starters earned All-Big South honors. Guerriero and Bahar would earn multiple opportunities in the NFL, signing as free agents at the conclusion of the draft while the Hawks would earn a final ranking of 11th in the nation, their highest finish at the time. Gallo has been a part of Callahan's staff since 2005, and has served as the tight ends coach since 2007. Gallo has coached two NFL tight ends in John Nalbone and Hakeem Valles, and in five straight seasons Monmouth tight ends earned First Team all-Big South honors. Jake Powell was a two-time First Team All-Big South choice before Shawn Clark (2019) and Gene Scott (Spring 2021, Fall 2021) continued the tradition. In Gallo's time at Monmouth his players have set every MU tight end receiving record while five players have earned tryouts or roster spots in the NFL. Gallo has coached all-conference players in 12 of the last 16 years while Nalbone, an All-American, became Monmouth's highest drafted when he was chosen in the fifth round by the Miami Dolphins. Nalbone also became the first Hawk drafted in the NFL, going on to play for three teams in four seasons. Valles could not crack the Monmouth two-deep as a wide receiver when he decided to request a switch to tight end. Over the next two seasons he would go on to start 20 games for the Blue & White, finishing third on the team in receptions and reception yardage as a senior in 2015. As his blocking improved, interest in the 6'5" Sicklerville, NJ native picked up by NFL teams with all 32 visiting West Long Branch to watch or work him out. Valles signed with the Cardinals moments after the 2016 Draft concluded and was assigned to the practice squad at the start of the season. Mike McLafferty, who earned NFL mini-camp invites from three different teams, completed the finest season for a Monmouth tight end in 2013, setting the position record with 501 receiving yards on 24 receptions, highlighted by a pair of 100-plus yard games and led the Hawks with 20.9 yards per reception. Despite only earning the starting nod as a senior, McLafferty finished his career as Monmouth’s sixth all-time leading receiver. Gallo began his coaching career in 2005 when he served as Monmouth's Director of Football Operations. The former Hawk offensive lineman handled a number of administrative duties for the Monmouth football team, including but not limited to all aspects of team travel and organizing the Annual Monmouth Football Golf Outing.  Gallo has been instrumental in fundraising and alumni relations, setting up numerous events held throughout the year. Gallo enjoyed a stellar four-year playing career as a Hawk from 2000-03. He tabbed first-team All-Northeast Conference honors as an offensive lineman and was named a second-team Don Hansen All-American during his senior campaign. Gallo also earned the Monmouth University Lombardi Award while leading the Hawks to an NEC Championship and then ECAC Football Classic in the 2003 season. A South Jersey native and graduate of Cherokee High School, Gallo earned third-team All-State and first-team All-South Jersey honors as a defensive lineman.  He currently resides in Howell with his wife Kirsten.

Olivia Staff joined the Monmouth University women's rowing coaching staff in August of 2022. Staff was elevated to Associate Head Coach in August of 2023. Staff came to the Jersey Shore following a four-year stint at Tulsa, where she was an assistant coach and held the title of Interim Head Coach in 2022. The Golden Hurricane earned third-place team finishes in the American Athletic Conference each of the previous three seasons and Staff mentored the 2022 AAC Women’s Rowing Newcomer of the Year, Anna Shaw. Three Tulsa student-athletes were named to The American All-Conference Teams and the Varsity 4+ and Varsity 8+ boats earned bronze medals at the championships.   Staff is a native of Scottsdale, AZ and served as a graduate assistant coach at the University of Central Oklahoma from August 2014 to May 2017.  While at UCO the Bronchos finished as the NCAA Division II national runner-up in 2016 and 2017, and earned a fourth-place mark in 2015.  She was also instrumental in coaching the Novice 4+ to a top finish at the Florida Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championship in 2017, after finishing in second place the previous two seasons. Staff served as a development camp assistant coach with the USRowing Women's Junior National Team from 2015 to 2018 and 2021, where she was tasked with teaching the technical aspects of sweep and scull rowing for proficiency and speed at the national junior level. This summer, Staff coached at the US Rowing High Performance Center OKC.   At the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation, Staff was the novice head coach from 2013 to 2017.  She developed the program for year-round practice and competition, focusing on safety, technical development and fitness management.   Staff was a two-sport athlete at the Oklahoma in rowing (2009-13) and soccer (2009-11).  She earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from OU in 2014, and her master's degree in education from Central Oklahoma in 2017.  

Mike Sparta joined the Monmouth University women's rowing coaching staff as a graduate assistant prior to the 2023-24 season.  Sparta brought over ten years of rowing coaching experience to the program, including the past eight as an assistant rowing coach at Christian Brothers Academy and Monmouth Junior Rowing Club. Prior to that, Sparta served as the head rowing coach of Syracuse Chargers Rowing Club from 2012-14.  Sparta is a native of Red Bank, NJ and is a 2014 graduate of Syracuse where he earned a degree in Chemical Engineering and competed as a member of the men's rowing program. 

DeYoung joins the men’s golf coaching staff as an assistant coach, and will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program. Previously, DeYoung served as the Lead Assistant Golf Professional at Deal Golf and Country Club and also spent time at Lost Tree Club, The Ridgewood Country Club, Milwaukee Country Club and Egypt Valley Country Club. He joins a men’s program that will compete in five tournaments this spring, including its second ever CAA Championships in Saint Helena Island, South Carolina.  

Matt Trapani joined the Monmouth University men's lacrosse coaching staff as an assistant coach in March of 2022 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator for the program.  The 2023 season was Monmouth's first as a member of the CAA. Monmouth had eight All-MAAC selections in Trapani's first season, including a pair of First Team defensive-minded players, short-stick midfielder Garrett Klurman and defensive standout Michael Quigg. Monmouth's All-MAAC second team selections were long stick midfielder Jack Gertie, face-off specialist Matt Soutar and goalie Noah Lode. The trio of freshmen acknowledged were midfielders Luke Cole and Terrence Lacewell and Nick Teets on attack. Trapani brings experience as a coach at the collegiate, high school and club lacrosse levels to Monmouth. Most recently he served as a volunteer assistant coach with the men's lacrosse program at Sacred Heart University where he was with the Pioneers since 2018. During his time at Sacred Heart, the Pioneers had eight All-NEC performers, four Academic All-Americans and three players continue playing professional lacrosse. Prior to his time at Sacred Heart, Trapani worked for two years as an assistant coach at Albright College as the recruiting and offensive coordinators. He mentored eight all-conference honorees, including the 2017 MAC Commonwealth Conference Offensive Player of the Year, and two All-ECAC picks. Before his time at Albright, Trapani spent four years at Union County College and two years at Cranford High School as an assistant coach. Trapani also has experience with Eclipse Lacrosse Club where he has worked since 2019, Cranford Youth Lacrosse (2013-16) and Trilogy Lacrosse Company (2012-18). A native of Cranford, NJ, Trapani was a four-year letterman on attack at Kean University and graduated in 2012 with a degree in Accounting.

Emily Culmone joined the Monmouth University women's rowing coaching staff prior to the start of the 2024-25 season.  Culmone has a strong background in rowing, both as a student-athlete and coach. She competed as a collegiate varsity rower at Stockton University from 2019 to 2023, holding the position of bow seat in the Varsity 8 boat and was also a team captain for the Ospreys. Her coaching experience includes working as an Assistant Women's Rowing Coach at Nova Southeastern University, where she executed practice plans, recruited athletes, and managed team logistics in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, she worked as an assistant coach and safety director at Stockton University's Summer Youth Rowing Camp in 2021, focusing on teaching rowing techniques and ensuring safety protocols?. Culmone has served as a lifeguard with the Upper Township Beach Patrol since 2016 and worked as an aide at Y.A.L.E School in 2023. 

Codey Cole joined the Monmouth University football coaching staff as Defensive Line Coach in February of 2025. Cole came to Monmouth with a proven track record in player development and defensive success. He most recently served as the defensive line coach at Bucknell, where he helped develop standout players such as 2024 All-Patriot League OLB Brad Jamison and DT Aneesh Vyas. Prior to Bucknell, he coached at Findlay, where his defensive unit ranked among the nation's best in scoring defense, total defense, and run defense. His experience also includes stints at Alderson Broaddus, where he contributed to a top-15 NCAA takeaway defense, and Northern Illinois, where he assisted a MAC Championship-winning defensive line in 2021. A former collegiate player at Kansas, Cole graduated in 2019 after two seasons with the Jayhawks.

Kamau Dumas joined the Monmouth University football coaching staff as Defensive Backs Coach in February of 2025. A familiar face to Monmouth fans returned to the Jersey Shore as Dumas, a former All-Big South defensive back, took over coaching duties for the secondary. Dumas, who was part of Monmouth’s 2017 playoff team, spent the 2024 season at Central Oklahoma, where he helped lead the program to an MIAA Conference Championship and a second-round playoff appearance. His defensive backs ranked among the top-10 nationally in pass breakups. Dumas also coached at Wagner (2023), where he was named to Football Scoop’s Rising Minority Coaches List, and at Gannon (2022), where he helped guide the team to a PSAC West Championship and one of the best seasons in school history. Before transitioning to the college level, he spent three years coaching at Morristown High School in football and track & field.  

Vega was hired in January 2026 as the Safeties Coach following a two-year tenure at Mercer University as the Cornerbacks Coach. He led the secondary that intercepted opposing quarterbacks a total of 24 times across two seasons, including an FCS best 25 INTs with four being returned for touchdowns in 2024. In 2025, Mercer led the SoCon defensively in first downs allowed, third- and fourth-down percentage. The Bears were champions of the SoCon in both of his years on the Mercer coaching staff. Vega broke into coaching at Wilkes where he was the Defensive Backs Coach from 2017-2020 and later was promoted as the team’s Defensive Coordinator in 2021. Vega joined Kutztown in 2022 as the Safeties Coach, where the Golden Bears finished with an 8-3 overall and 5-2 conference record, and then took over as the Defensive Backs Coach at D-II national semifinalist Lenoir-Rhyne in 2023 before heading to Macon, Georgia. Vega played defensive back at Delaware Valley from 2010-13, appearing in 33 games and making 109 (75 solo) career tackles for the Aggies, adding nine interceptions and 17 pass breakups. He helped lead DVU to 35 wins, as well as a pair of D-III playoff berths. Vega earned his bachelor’s degree in business management from Delaware Valley in 2014.

Louis DiRienzo Jr. joined the Monmouth University football coaching staff as Linebackers Coach in February of 2025. DiRienzo Jr. arrived at Monmouth after serving five seasons as the Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach at Springfield. Under his leadership, Springfield won multiple conference titles, and he was named the Gridiron Club of New England's Division II/III Co-Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023. He previously worked at Rutgers as a Special Teams Quality Control Coach (2019) and at Wagner (2018), where he mentored Cam Gill, the NEC and ECAC Defensive Player of the Year. A 2016 graduate of Southern Connecticut State, DiRienzo Jr. was a standout linebacker and team captain during his playing career.  

Sam Dorsett joined the Monmouth football coaching staff prior to the 2013 season and begins his 13th year on the sidelines for the Hawks in 2025 as the program's running backs coach. Since his arrival in West Long Branch, Dorsett has mentored five All-Conference running backs, each of whom have earned multiple all-league honors. Sone Ntoh, Jaden Shirden, Juwon Farri and Pete Guerriero each garnered national recognition under Dorsett's tutelage. Three Monmouth backs have gone on to sign NFL contracts, Shirden, Guerriero and Owen Wright.  Monmouth’s rushing attack was powered by the dominant play of Sone Ntoh and Rodney Nelson, who formed a formidable backfield duo in 2024. Ntoh was a touchdown machine, leading the entire FCS in scoring (13.0 ppg), total touchdowns (26), and rushing touchdowns (25) on his way to First Team All-CAA honors and an Associated Press Honorable Mention All-America selection. His physical running style made him nearly unstoppable in the red zone, helping Monmouth boast one of the top scoring offenses in the nation. Complementing Ntoh’s power, Rodney Nelson made a strong impact as a freshman, earning spots on the FCS Football Central and Phil Steele Freshman All-America teams. Following an outstanding 2022 season, Shirden put together another impressive campaign during his final season in West Long Branch. Shirden finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting after leading the country in rushing for the second consecutive season (134.4 ypg) and was recognized again as the CAA Offensive Player of the Year. Following the year, Shirden was honored as a consensus First Team All-American, finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting, played in the East-West Shrine Bowl and signed a free agent contract with the Carolina Panthers. In addition to Shirden's success, Ntoh claimed Second Team All-CAA honors after scoring 14 rushing touchdowns in 2023.  Shirden joined Guerriero as the second consensus offensive All-American in program history following a breakout sophomore season in 2022. The speedster led the entire country in rushing at the end of the regular season, including FBS running backs, with 1,722 yards. His 8.4 yards per carry and 156.5 rushing yards per game were both tops in the FCS, earning him Colonial Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Year honors. Shirden averaged an impressive 52.8 yards on 13 touchdown runs, including eight 50+ yard touchdown runs. Wright followed his Monmouth career with an appearance in the NFLPA Bowl and signed a free agent contract with the Baltimore Ravens. Farri burst onto the scene in 2018 with a 1,024-yard season that propelled him to First Team and Big South Freshman of the Year honors. Farri's performance put him fifth in the Jerry Rice Award voting and he secured Hero Sports and Phil Steele national freshman nods. In the shorted 2021 Spring campaign Farri grabbed four national awards, finished eighth in the Walter Payton Award voting, hauled in Big South Offensive Player of the Year honors and First Team All-Big South accolades. Farri followed up his standout spring with a First Team All-Big South selection after running for a team-high 705 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2021 campaign.  Guerriero collected all-conference honors in all three of his seasons, including first team honors in 2017 and 2019. In 2017, Guerriero was named Big South Freshman of the Year, an AFCA Second Team All-American and a Hero Sports First Team Freshman All-American. Guerriero closed his career as the second all-time leading rusher at Monmouth with 3,974 yards following a 1,995 yard and 18-touchdown season in 2019. He became Monmouth's second First Team Associated Press All-American and pulled in five different national honors en route to finishing third in the Walter Payton Award voting.  Lavon Chaney was a two-time All-Big South Second Team selection in consecutive seasons, 2014 and 2015, and graduated as Monmouth's third-leading rusher with 2,449 career rushing yards. Dorsett also had a hand in the success of Monmouth's special teams, a unit he mentored from 2013 through 2022. Eight Hawks earned all-conference recognition under Dorsett, including punter Ryan Mohr (2014), punt returner Kamau Dumas (2017), kick returner Pete Guerriero (2017), punt returner Vinnny Grasso (2018), kicker Matt Mosquera (2018 and 2019), punt returner Eddie Morales III (2019 and 2021), long snapper Kent Vines (2019 and Spring 2021) and punter Ryan Kost (Spring 2021, 2021 and 2022).  His first season at Monmouth was 2013 where Monmouth played as an independent and had a strong rushing attack. Both Julian Hayes (1,111) and KB Asante (1,080) went over 1,000 rushing yards on the season under Dorsett's tutelage.  Dorsett, who left Robert Morris as the school’s all-time leading rusher, coached at his alma mater for five seasons before spending 2012 year as a member of Chris Villarrial’s staff at Saint Francis University. In his only season with the Red Flash, Dorsett mentored a rushing unit that ranked 12th in the Football Championship Subdivision as four different Saint Francis backs amassed 2,590 yards on 505 attempts. He mentored a talented and deep backfield, including freshman Anthony Abeid who was named Northeast Conference Rookie of the Year. While with the Red Flash Dorsett recruited Florida and Eastern Pennsylvania, landing a number of recruits from each area. During his five seasons coaching the running backs at Robert Morris, Dorsett coached and recruited NEC Offensive Player of the Year Myles Russ, who ended up breaking Dorsett’s all-time rushing and all-purpose yardage school records. In 2010 he was instrumental in Robert Morris’ first FCS playoff berth and was one of 25 minority coaches from across the country to take part in the annual NCAA Football Coaches Academy. While a member of legendary Coach Joe Walton’s staff, Dorsett recruited Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia for the Colonials. Dorsett was enshrined in the Robert Morris Hall of Fame in 2009 after a celebrated career which had him amass 3,847 rushing yards. The three-time All-Northeast Conference selection still holds the Colonial record for rushing touchdowns (29), and 100-yard rushing games (19). Robert Morris posted a 17-2 record when Dorsett ran for 100 yards or more in a contest and he led the Colonials to back to back NEC Titles and Mid-Major National Championships in 1999 and 2000. In 2001 he earned All-America honors from The Sports Network. A 2003 graduate of RMU with a Bachelor of Science degree in management, Dorsett earned a Master of Science degree in communications and information systems in 2009 after spending two seasons a graduate assistant with the Colonials.  

Dennis Long joined the Monmouth University football coaching staff in the spring of 2022 as the Special Teams Quality Control, Assistant Long Snappers/Kickers/Punters Coach. Long served as the Hawks' Special Teams Coach in 2023 and was elevated to Special Teams Coordinator in February 2024. The 2025 season will be Long's fourth in West Long Branch and second as Special Teams Coordinator. Monmouth’s special teams unit made a significant impact throughout the 2024 season, with multiple players earning conference and national recognition. TJ Speight was a dynamic playmaker in the return game, earning Second Team All-CAA honors as a kick returner and multiple All-Purpose accolades from Phil Steele. Punter Luke Schabel also received recognition, securing a spot on Phil Steele’s Fourth Team All-CAA list for his contributions in flipping field position. The Hawks’ special teams unit delivered clutch performances all season, with Michael Calton Jr. and Makhi Green each earning CAA Special Teams Player of the Week honors following wins over FAU and Fordham, respectively. Following the 2023 season, TJ Speight was honored by Phil Steele/Draft Scout with a Third Team All-CAA award. In 2022, punter Ryan Kost earned First Team All-CAA honors under Long's guidance. Phil Steele/Draft Scout also recognized Kost, who averaged an FCS best 48.1 yards per punt, along with long snapper Kent Vines with First Team and Third Team honors, respectively, following the 2022 campaign. Long came to Monmouth after spending the previous four years at his alma mater, East Stroudsburg University where he served as the Special Teams Coordinator and Linebackers Coach. During his time at ESU, he mentored five All-PSAC East selections, two All-Region honorees and AP All-America Second Team kicker Jordan Walters. Prior to his return to East Stroudsburg, Long spent the 2018 season as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Offensive Line Coach at Sayreville High School. Long helped the team to an 11-1 record and a No. 8 ranking in New Jersey.  Long graduated from East Stroudsburg in 2017 with a degree in Political Science after he played two seasons as a long snapper for the Warriors. He previously spent two years at Nassau Community College, where he played two seasons.  Long is a native of Sayreville, NJ.

Brian Gabriel joined the Monmouth football coaching staff in 2004 and was promoted to Run Game Coordinator prior to the 2019 season. Gabriel also serves as Monmouth's offensive line coach; a unit which has churned out 44 all-conference selections, including at least one honoree in every season. The 2025 season will be Gabriel's 22nd on the sidelines at Monmouth University. The position of offensive line has been a significant strength of the Monmouth football program year in and year out. Gabriel has mentored 25 first team all-conference selections, while a total of 21 national honors have been awarded to Monmouth offensive lineman, including AP All-American selections Alex Thompson (2017 - second team) and AJ Farris (2019 - third team). Farris was a two-time Rimington Trophy Award winner at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level in 2020-21 and 2021. Monmouth’s offense put together a historic 2024 season, establishing itself as one of the most explosive units in the FCS. The Hawks led the CAA and ranked among the nation’s top 10 in multiple statistical categories, finishing first in the FCS in total offense and fourth-down conversions while ranking second in scoring offense and passing offense. Quarterback Derek Robertson orchestrated the attack, earning CAA Offensive Player of the Year honors after leading the nation in passing yards per game and total offense, while finishing as a finalist for the Walter Payton Award. Running back Sone Ntoh powered the ground game, leading the FCS in scoring, total touchdowns, and rushing touchdowns. Monmouth made history with its first-ever FBS victory, a thrilling 45-42 win over FIU, and capped the year by knocking off two ranked opponents, including a 40-33 victory over No. 8/9 Villanova and a 55-47 road win at No. 20/18 Stony Brook. The Hawks boasted a dominant offensive line that led the CAA in both sacks allowed (0.92 per game) and tackles for loss allowed (3.33 per game), led by Second Team All-CAA selection JT Cornelius.  The 2023 season saw Monmouth's offense continue its success from the 2022 campaign. The Hawks ranked 12th in total offense (431.5 ypg) and 13th in scoring offense (32.5 ppg) thanks in large part to a pair of consensus First Team All-Americans in running back Jaden Shirden and wide receiver Dymere Miller. Shirden finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting after leading the country in rushing for the second consecutive season (134.4 ypg) and once again headlined Monmouth's CAA award winners as the Offensive Player of the Year, running behind Second Team All-CAA offensive lineman Greg Anderson and Third Team selection Tyler Williams. Monmouth's offense did not miss a beat in its first season in the Colonial Athletic Association in 2022, highlighted by the emergence of Jaden Shirden, a consensus All-American selection at running back. Shirden finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting after he led the entire country in rushing at the end of the regular season, including FBS running backs, with 1,722 yards. Paving the way for Shirden on the offensive line were Greg Anderson and Justin Szuba, who were each were voted Third Team All-CAA.  Gabriel was elevated to Assistant Head Coach prior to the 2014 season, Monmouth's first as a member of the Big South Conference. In his role as recruiting coordinator Gabriel helped usher Monmouth into the Big South era by securing top talent. As the head of Monmouth's recruiting efforts, Gabriel was responsible for organizing recruiting weekends and coaching staff areas along with the creation and distribution of MU's mailing materials. He is also responsible for the promotion of and creating materials for Monmouth's two successful football summer camps (7 on 7 Passing Camp and Football Skills Mini Camp). During Gabriel's time in West Long Branch, Monmouth has won four conference championships, two as a member of the NEC (2004, 2006) and two in the Big South (2019, 2020-21), and has made three FCS Playoff appearances (2017, 2019, 2020-21). Gabriel arrived at Monmouth after a two-year coaching stint at his alma mater Siena College. He served as offensive line coach for the Saints and was also responsible for game planning and offensive scouting, as well as all aspects of recruiting. While a student at Siena, Gabriel enjoyed an outstanding playing career as a four-year starter on the offensive line. During his senior season, he served as a tri-captain. A New Jersey prep product, Gabriel was a three-sport athlete at Pascack Valley High School. He earned three varsity letters as a member of the PVHS football squad. Gabriel was named team captain for the North Squad at the 1998 All-County game and he also earned the Talamo Award for outstanding academic and athletic achievement.  Gabriel and his wife, Katie along with their daughter Teegan and son Nolan reside in Wall Township.

Kevin Callahan Jr. joined the Monmouth Football coaching staff in March 2019 as the Wide Receivers Coach and assumed the responsibilities of Recruiting Coordinator prior to the 2022 season. The 2025 season will be Callahan Jr.'s seventh at Monmouth. Monmouth's wide receivers have grown under Callahan Jr.'s guidance and have earned all-conference honors in each of his six seasons on the sidelines in West Long Branch. Monmouth’s wide receivers played a pivotal role in the team’s high-powered offense in 2024, helping the Hawks lead the CAA and rank second in the FCS in passing offense (332.5 yards per game). Josh Derry emerged as the top target, averaging 91.7 receiving yards per game to lead the conference and rank ninth nationally, earning Second Team All-CAA honors. Quarterback Derek Robertson, who led the FCS in passing yards per game (328.1), spread the ball effectively, with TJ Speight also making a significant impact, earning Third Team All-CAA recognition. Tra Neal was named to the FCS Football Central Freshman All-America Team and was a Phil Steele Second Team Freshman All-America selection.  The 2023 season saw Dymere Miller lead FCS in receiving yards (1,293) and receiving yards per game (117.5). Miller was a consensus First Team All-American who finished second in the country in receptions (90) and receptions per game (8.2) while setting program single-season records for catches, yards, single game receiving yards (333) and 100-yard games (6).  Following the 2022 campaign, Miller was awarded Second Team All-CAA recognition after he finished with seven touchdowns on 55 receptions for 820 yards. The redshirt junior missed two contests with injury but still finished first in the CAA in receiving yards per game and second in receiving touchdowns by a wideout. Terrance Greene Jr. and Lonnie Moore IV earned All-Big South honors in three straight seasons with Callahan Jr. in charge of coaching the wideouts. Both Greene Jr. and Moore IV occupy spots in the top-10 all-time in receptions, yardage and touchdowns. In 2019 the duo combined for 139 catches, the most for two receivers in a season in Monmouth history.  Callahan Jr. came to Monmouth after spending the 2018 season as the running backs coach at Lafayette. The former Amherst College defensive back also spent three seasons coaching at Columbia University in addition to coaching at his alma mater.   Callahan Jr. was part of John Garrett's staff at Lafayette for the 2018 season, coaching the day to day responsibilities of the running back position while recruiting in North Jersey, New York and New England. He also executed offensive film responsibilities for the Leopards, including opponent breakdowns, opponent pressure tendencies and self-scout reports. While at Columbia he worked with the running backs, wideouts and quarterbacks, leading position meetings, film reviews and helping with installs. He was the staff liaison with Championship Analytics and had a supporting role in the Lions' recruiting efforts. While serving as the running backs coach at Amherst he recruited California, Washington, Oregon and Nevada and helped managed the Mammoths' social media efforts in addition to his coaching responsibilities.   A 2014 graduate of Amherst, Callahan Jr. was a three-time NESCAC All-Academic Team selection and was elected to the team's Leadership Council from 2011-13. He was the winner of the 2013 James E. Ostendarp Scholar-Athlete Award, awarded to the Football Senior who displays both academic and athletic excellence. As a senior in college he served as the Player Engagement Intern for the National Football League.  

Jimmy Robertson was hired as Pass Game Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach in January of 2022. The 2025 season will be Robertson's fourth on the sidelines at Monmouth. Monmouth’s offense put together a historic 2024 season, establishing itself as one of the most explosive units in the FCS. The Hawks led the CAA and ranked among the nation’s top 10 in multiple statistical categories, finishing first in the FCS in total offense and fourth-down conversions while ranking second in scoring offense and passing offense. Quarterback Derek Robertson, Jimmy Robertson's younger brother, orchestrated the attack, earning CAA Offensive Player of the Year honors after leading the nation in passing yards per game and total offense, while finishing as a finalist for the Walter Payton Award. Monmouth made history with its first-ever FBS victory, a thrilling 45-42 win over FIU, and capped the year by knocking off two ranked opponents, including a 40-33 victory over No. 8/9 Villanova and a 55-47 road win at No. 20/18 Stony Brook. The Hawks’ passing success was recognized with four All-CAA selections, including first-team all-conference honors for Derek Robertson, along with Third Team All-CAA receivers Josh Derry and TJ Speight, while tight end Jack Neri was an Honorable Mention choice. Derek Robertson also earned All-American consideration along with wideout Tra Neal, who collected freshman All-American honors. The 2023 season saw Monmouth's offense continue its success from the 2022 campaign. The Hawks ranked 12th in total offense (431.5 ypg) and 13th in scoring offense (32.5 ppg) thanks in large part to consensus First Team All-American wide receiver Dymere Miller. Miller was first in the FCS in receiving in both total yards (1,293) and yards per game (117.5) and a First Team All-CAA selection. Graduate transfer quarterback Marquez McCray directed the offense and threw for 2,602 yards with 21 touchdowns on the year. Monmouth led the CAA and ranked in the top 15 nationally in total offense (461.7 ypg) and scoring offense (36.4 ppg) in 2022. Wide receiver Dymere Miller earned Second Team All-CAA honors, while offensive linemen Greg Anderson and Justin Szuba both were voted Third Team All-CAA. Robertson mentored Preseason All-CAA selection Tony Muskett, who started the first eight games and threw for 1,997 yards with 17 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Freshman Enzo Arjona started the final three games and totaled 548 yards with four touchdowns and one interception.   “Coach Robertson is a great addition to our coaching staff,” said Callahan at his time of hiring. “His experience working with the quarterback position and his time as a head coach compliment the strengths of our offense coaches, and make him a great fit for Monmouth.”   Robertson came to Monmouth after six seasons in nearby FDU Madison, the final year having served as Head Coach of the Devils.   Robertson, the 2021 Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Football Coach of the Year, guided the Devils to a record of 7-4 in his first year as the head coach in Madison. The Devils won their first ECAC Bowl game in program history in 2021, with FDU counting an All-American, two all-region and six all-conference honorees among its ranks. Robertson was the Devils’ QB Coach and Offensive Coordinator in 2019 with his squad finishing with the top offense in the conference and the ninth-ranked pass offense in the nation. In all, Robertson’s offense set over 30 single-game, single-season, career and program records. He was also credited with creating a new alumni association for football and implanting player development and recruiting plans.   Prior to his time at FDU, Robertson spent four seasons at the US Merchant Marine Academy. He began his time in Kings Point by mentoring the wide receivers before moving on to the quarterbacks where he mentored a pair of all-league selections. Robertson played professionally for two years following graduation as part of the Plattling Blackhawks of the German Football League.   Robertson is a 2010 graduate for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute where he was a four-year starting QB and a two-year captain for the Engineers. He helped guide RPI to four post-season appearances while compiling a four-year starting record of 31-9 overall. A 2018 inductee to the RPI Hall of Fame, Robertson was the 2008 Liberty League Player of the Year and was a four-time all-league selection while in Troy.   He currently resides in New York with his wife Kristen and daughters Mia and Emma.