Merrimack moved quickly to replace Dan Curran who departed for Holy Cross by promoting defensive coordinator Mike Gennetti to head football coach. Gennetti will be the fifth coach in the program’s 28 year history.

Gennetti has been at Merrimack for the past 19 seasons in a variety of roles. Gennetti is excited about the opportunity to take over at a school he has so much reverence for.

“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!”

Gennetti’s defense was amongst the best in the NEC last season and the unit has consistently been one of the top groups in either the NE-10 or the NEC during his time.

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.

Director of Athletics Jeremy Gibson praised Gennetti for his commitment to the school and the type of coach that he is.

“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.”

Gennetti does not have much time to enjoy his promotion. With national signing day on Wednesday, he will get on the recruiting trail to try and lock up some commitments.