Monmouth University has announced the sudden death of defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr., a Yonkers, New York native who was just 34.
‘On behalf of Monmouth Athletics, we are heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Coach DiRienzo,’ Monmouth 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.’
No cause of death has been revealed.
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 in January after mentoring one of the most improved units in the Coastal Athletic Association during last year’s 9-3 campaign.
Monmouth University has announced the sudden death of defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr., a Yonkers, New York native who was just 34. No cause has been revealed
DiRienzo was promoted to defensive coordinator after the Hawks’ defensive turnaround in ’26
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
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 DiRibiero 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.
