The University of Scranton Executive Director of Athletics Dave Martin has announced the hiring of Andy Loughnane as the head coach of the men's soccer program.
He becomes the fifth head coach in program history and takes over the reins from Matt Pivirotto who stepped away after a successful 25-season run.
Loughnane brings an extensive coaching background to his new role as he has served as the head coach at Misericordia University since 2016 and has also spent the past seven years as the Sporting Director/Head Coach of the Electric City Shock, an NPSL Franchise based in Scranton.
"I am excited and humbled to rejoin The University of Scranton as the next head men's soccer coach. During the interview process, I was really struck by the Royal Way and how it shapes the beliefs, words and actions of the athletic staff and student-athletes at Scranton, Loughnane said. "I would like to thank Dave Martin, Dr. Bobby Davis and the entire search committee for entrusting me to guide the men's soccer program forward. In addition, the mentorship and advice that former coaches Matt Pivirotto and Steve Klingman have provided has been invaluable. They, along with generations of student-athletes and previous coaches have established a tradition grounded in pursuing excellence. I look forward to getting on campus and contributing to the transformative student-athlete experience Scranton is known for."
During his time at Misericordia, Loughnane guided the program to six MAC Freedom Playoff appearances in his seven seasons, including a pair of runner-up-finishes in 2016 and 2021. The Cougars tallied a total of 55 victories under Loughnane with double-digit win campaigns in 2016, 2021 and 2022. He helped mentor 25 All-Conference and seven United Soccer Coaches' (USC) All-Region honorees.
Loughnane's coaching career began at Scranton as an assistant under Pivirotto for five seasons from 2011 to 2015. During that time, he helped guide the Royals to an NCAA Elite Eight appearance in 2012, two NCAA Tournament appearances and the 2015 Landmark Conference title.
"We are excited to welcome Andy back to Scranton," Martin said. "Andy's commitment to student-athletes and to Catholic higher education make him the perfect fit for our department and our University."
Loughnane earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Caldwell University in 2011 and went on to earn his Masters of Science in biochemistry from Scranton in 2015. During his time at Caldwell, Loughnane played both soccer and tennis and served as a two-time team captain of the soccer team.
--ROYALS--
