NEW ROCHELLE, NY - Iona University is deeply saddened and mourns the passing of former football head coach Fred Mariani, who was instrumental in shaping the legacy of the Gaels' program. Coach Mariani, who served as the first full-time head football coach in Iona's history, passed away recently at the age of 71. His dedication, leadership, and passion for the game left an indelible mark on the Iona community.
 
"Fred Mariani will be remembered not only for his accomplishments on the field but also for the profound impact he had on the lives of his players and colleagues," said Director of Athletics Matthew Glovaski. "His legacy at Iona University is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence."
 
Hired in 1998, Coach Mariani took the helm of a struggling program, which had been a combined 1-19 over the previous two seasons. Under his guidance, the Gaels experienced a remarkable turnaround, achieving 46 wins during his tenure. His leadership culminated in Iona's first winning season in a decade, a testament to his skill as both a coach and mentor.
 
Throughout his 11 seasons at Iona, Mariani was known for his innovative offensive strategies and his ability to inspire a deeper sense of commitment from his players. He coached numerous athletes who went on to set school records and achieve All-America status. Mariani's influence extended beyond the field, with several of his players continuing their football careers at the professional level in the NFL, Canadian Football League, Arena Football League, and European leagues.
 
Before joining Iona, Mariani made significant contributions to several other programs, including Fordham University, Lehigh University, and Morehead State University. His expertise in recruiting and offense helped transform these teams, leaving a lasting impact at each institution.
 
A proud alumnus of St. Joseph's College, Mariani began his football journey as an offensive lineman before moving into coaching, where he enjoyed a successful nine-year tenure. His contributions were recognized in 1999 when he was inducted into the St. Joseph's College Athletic Hall of Fame.
 
Iona University extends its deepest condolences to the Mariani family, including his daughter Brook, a proud Iona alumna. Fred Mariani's memory will forever be cherished by the Iona community.
 
For information on arrangements, please visit Legacy.com.