In Episode 386 of Airey Bros Radio, we go belly to belly with Coach Mark Del Monaco, the newly appointed Director of Track & Field and Cross Country at Tiffin University. A proud New Jersey native with coaching stops at Metro State, Cal State East Bay, and Minot State, Coach Del Monaco has built a reputation for developing nationally recognized NCAA Division II programs and producing All-Americans, record-holders, and champions.In this conversation, we cover:
- Coach Del Monaco’s journey from La Salle University runner to DII head coach
- His approach to scholarships, recruiting, and international talent pipelines
- Building culture, character, and the right “fit” at Tiffin
- The balance of administration vs. athlete-first coaching
- Cross country and track insights, from double threshold training to facilities advantages
- What to expect from the Tiffin Dragons in 2025 and beyond
Whether you’re a student-athlete, parent, coach, or fan of NCAA DII athletics, this episode is packed with lessons on leadership, program building, and the reality of college athletics outside the Power Four spotlight.👉 Subscribe, share, and leave us a review to help spread the word and support programs giving real opportunities to student-athletes.
- Highlights & Key Topics:
- New Jersey roots, La Salle background, and post-collegiate career in Boulder
- Coaching journey through Metro State (Denver), Cal State East Bay, and Minot State
- Building a winning culture at Tiffin University (NCAA DII, GMAC)
- Scholarship breakdowns: how athletic, academic, and merit aid work together
- Recruiting strategy – from Ohio talent pools to international athletes
- Training philosophy: distance running, 800/1500m focus, double threshold work
- Leadership lessons – from young coach to seasoned director
- Program facilities, including Tiffin’s elite indoor track advantage
- What to expect from the 2025 Cross Country and Track & Field seasons
- Follow Coach Del Monaco & Tiffin XC/TF
- Follow Airey Bros Radio
Fueled by: Black Sheep Endurance Coaching