RADNOR, Pa. (May 21) – Greg Herenda has been named as the school’s new full-time men’s basketball coach last week. The announcement was made Thursday, May 18 by Cabrini College Director of Athletics and Recreation Dr. Leslie Danehy.
“We are very excited to have Greg Herenda lead our men’s basketball program and we welcome him and his family to the Cabrini community,’’ said Danehy. “Greg is an experienced basketball coach who has mentored and developed young men on and off the court for many years. His enthusiasm and passion for the game, along with his breadth of experience, will serve him well.”
Herenda, a seasoned veteran at the collegiate level, brings more than 20 years coaching experience to Cabrini. Herenda has served as the associate head coach at East Carolina University in Conference USA (2000-2005) and also has served as an assistant at Yale (1997-1999), Seton Hall University (1994-1997), Holy Cross (1989-1994), Merrimack University (1985-1989) and the University of Lowell (1983-1985). At Lowell, Herenda helped recruit the core of the school’s 1988 Division II National Championship team.
Last season, Herenda took over the Elgin Community College program in Elgin, Illinois and led the Spartans to an 18-11 record and a second place finish in the Region IV District B Junior College Championships. It was the furthest that any Spartan team has ever advanced.
“I am honored and humbled to be named the new men’s basketball coach at Cabrini College,’’ said Herenda. “I have been so impressed with everything about Cabrini – from the beautiful campus, the facilities and most importantly the people. ”
Herenda, 46, succeeds Matthew Macciocca, who compiled a 16-34 mark over the past two seasons. Herenda inherits a relatively young team that returns senior guard Greg Clifton (11 points), senior forward Randy Reid (17 points, 8 rebounds) and senior center Bruce MacLelland (8.6 points, 10.3 rebounds).
“I can’t wait to meet the returning players and the incoming players and to get a chance to evaluate them and learn about them,’’ said Herenda. “I want to move this program in a positive direction. My philosophy is to surround yourself with good people, work hard and success will be a by-product of that.’’
Cabrini’s men’s basketball program is one of the most successful in NCAA Division III history. Entering play this season, the Cavaliers had compiled an overall record of 492-230 for a .681 winning percentage, the third best winning percentage in all of NCAA Division III men’s basketball.
“The great tradition of Cabrini men’s basketball speaks for itself,’’ said Herenda. “I am so honored and excited to carry the torch toward future success.’’
In addition to his coaching abilities, Herenda also has a background in broadcasting and development. He has worked as a lead analyst for the Yes Network’s Ivy League men’s basketball telecasts, providing on-camera and color commentary. He also has worked as the vice-president of development for the McHenry County (Ill.) YMCA where he oversaw marketing and fundraising programs.
Herenda is a 1983 graduate of Merrimack College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and marketing. Herenda played his high school basketball for legendary coach Jerome Halligan at St. Peter’s Prep. He still holds the career record for most assists in a game at Merrimack with a remarkable 22. A native of Jersey City, N.J., Herenda, 46, grew up in North Bergen, N.J. He and his wife Jillene have one son, Trey, four.
