Monmouth University is mourning the unexpected death of defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr., a Yonkers, New York, native who was 34.
Jennifer Sansevero, Monmouth’s director of athletics, said the athletics department was devastated by DiRienzo’s sudden passing.
Sansevero described DiRienzo as a gifted coach, trusted mentor and valued colleague whose energy for teaching young athletes and dedication to football quickly left a mark on the Hawks’ program. She also remembered him as a sincere and compassionate person who formed strong connections with those around him.
She added that the university’s thoughts are with DiRienzo’s family, friends, players, fellow coaches and everyone affected by his death, saying the Monmouth community will continue to honor his legacy through the influence he had on the program and the many people who knew him.
A cause of death has not been disclosed.
Before DiRienzo joined the staff in 2025, Monmouth had finished 6-6. He came aboard as linebackers coach and defensive run-game coordinator before earning a promotion to defensive coordinator in January, following his role in helping guide one of the Coastal Athletic Association’s most improved defenses during the Hawks’ 9-3 season.
Monmouth University has announced the unexpected death of defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr., a Yonkers, New York, native who was 34. No cause of death has been released.
DiRienzo was elevated to defensive coordinator after helping lead a turnaround for the Hawks’ defense.
Louis DiRienzo Jr and his wife, Allison, are pictured at their 2022 wedding
DiRienzo with his wife, Allison, mother Carol, and his father and high school coach, Louis Sr.
Previously, DiRienzo spent five seasons at Springfield College, where he served as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. During that time, Springfield won four consecutive NEWMAC conference titles, while DiRienzo took home Gridiron Club of New England Division II/III Co-Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023.
Monmouth head coach Jeff Gallo described his assistant as a ‘a great person, father and coach.’
‘He poured into our players and program, making a tremendous impact during his time here,’ Gallo said.
Later he’d become a linebacker and team captain at Southern Connecticut State University before ultimately earning his master’s degree in physical education from Springfield College.
Parents to twin daugthers, Allison and DiRienzo are pictured together after a holiday meal
Monmouth was just 6-6 before DiRienzo arrived in 2025. He initially joined the program as a linebackers coach and defensive run-game coordinator, but was ultimately promoted to DC
DiRienzo is survived by his wife Allie and their twin daughters, Audrina and Giavanna, as well as his parents, Carol and Louis Sr., and his brother Andrew DiRienzo. The Monmouth statement also included mention of DiRienzo’s bulldog, Geno, ‘who meant so much to him.’
He and Allison married in 2022.
‘We will support Lou’s family and our players through this difficult time and honor him through our daily work,’ Gallo said. ‘Lou’s presence will remain with our team; energy never dies.’
Longtime Hudson Valley high school sports reporter Kevin Devaney Jr. remembered DiRienzo as an ‘all-time favorite kid to cover.’
Devaney described himself as ‘shattered’ by the news.
Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday in his native Westchester, New York.
