Monmouth University defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr. has tragically died at the age of 34.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The university announced that DiRienzo passed away unexpectedly on Saturday.
A cause of death has not been released.
College Coach Dies at Age 34
Monmouth University Athletics shared a statement following the heartbreaking news.
"On behalf of Monmouth Athletics, we are heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Coach DiRienzo," 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."
DiRienzo was preparing for his first season as Monmouth's defensive coordinator after serving as the team's linebackers coach during the 2025 season.
He joined the Hawks in February 2025 as linebackers coach and defensive run game coordinator before earning a promotion to defensive coordinator in January 2026.
During his lone season with the program, Monmouth's defense showed significant improvement, forcing 17 turnovers, recording 31 sacks to rank fourth in the Coastal Athletic Association, and reducing its average points allowed by 5.7 per game compared with the previous season.
Coach Remembered for His Impact On and Off the Field
Before arriving at Monmouth, DiRienzo spent five seasons at Springfield College, including four as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach.
He also held coaching positions at Rutgers University as special teams quality control coach in 2019 and Wagner College as outside linebackers coach in 2018.
"Lou was a great person, father and coach," Hawks head coach Jeff Gallo said. "He poured into our players and program, making a tremendous impact during his time here."
"We are heartbroken for his wife Allie, daughters Giavanna and Audrina, and his entire family. We will support Lou's family and our players through this difficult time and honor him through our daily work. Lou's presence will remain with our team; energy never dies."
DiRienzo is survived by his wife, Allie, their twin daughters, Audrina and Giavanna, his parents, Carol and Louis DiRienzo Sr., his brother, Andrew DiRienzo, sister-in-law Courtney DiRienzo, and his bulldog, Geno.
