NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. – Mike Gennetti has been named the head coach of the Merrimack College football program, as announced by Vice President and Director of Athletics, Jeremy Gibson.
Gennetti sheds the interim title which he was given on Friday and becomes just the fifth head coach in the program’s 28 year history.
“I want to thank President Dr. Christopher E. Hopey, Executive Vice President Jeffrey Doggett, Chief of Staff and Vice President Fr. Bryan Kerns and Vice President and Director of Athletics Jeremy Gibson for providing me the amazing opportunity to lead the Merrimack football program,” said Gennetti. “This is truly an honor and I’m excited for what lies ahead for our program. Go Warriors!”
No stranger to the Merrimack sideline, Gennetti has been a leader within the program for 19 seasons, most recently serving as the defensive coordinator. Under his guidance, the Warriors have ranked among the best in the nation at the Division I FCS level, ranking in the top five of five different defensive statistical categories including the top spot in 3rd down conversion percentage. The Warriors appeared in back-to-back Northeast Conference Championship determining games in the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
“Mike has been a tremendously loyal and dedicated member of the Merrimack family and instrumental in our rapid ascension in FCS football.” said Gibson. “He is a fantastic coach and mentor and I am incredibly happy for Mike and his family as he elevates to this new role and leads our football program to new levels of success.”
The Warriors ranked first in the NEC in rushing defense, allowing 136.4 yards per game, which was over 13 yards better then the second place team. The Merrimack defense has consistently been one of the best units regionally and for his efforts, Gennetti was named Assistant Coach of the Year in FBS/FCS by the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston in 2022.
The Eagle-Tribune will have more on this later tonight and in Wednesday’s edition.