Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Md. has recently made the formal announcement of the resignation of their head men’s basketball coach, Dan Engelstad, as he seeks new opportunities. This news has come as a surprise to many, given Engelstad’s pivotal role in the university’s athletics program over the past six years.
In a statement, Engelstad conveyed his appreciation towards Mount St. Mary’s, expressing, “Thank you Mount St. Mary’s for an incredible six years. It has been an honour to serve as your head coach, to guide the team to the 2021 NCAA Tournament, and oversee the transition to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. I am thankful for the unwavering support from President Trainor, Athletic Directors Brad Davis and Lynne Robinson, our staff, players, and our devoted fans.”
Appointed as the 22nd coach in the program’s history in 2018, Engelstad achieved notable success during his tenure, notably guiding the Mount to the 2021 NCAA Tournament following victories over Wagner and Bryant in the Northeast Conference Tournament. With 72 wins at the school, Engelstad undoubtedly made a lasting impression on Mount St. Mary’s basketball program. Prior to his role at Mount St. Mary’s, Engelstad also experienced success at Southern Vermont College, accruing 104 wins and securing a pair of conference titles. Furthermore, he had previously served as an assistant coach at the Mount from 2008-10, contributing to the team’s participation in the 2008 NCAA Tournament.
Director of Athletics Brad Davis expressed his gratitude for Engelstad’s leadership, stating, “I would like to extend my thanks to Dan for his exemplary leadership as our basketball coach over the past six years. In my brief time at the Mount, I have treasured his friendship, and I extend my best wishes to him, Camille, and their three daughters, Laney, Elise, and Keira for the future.”
Following Engelstad’s departure, Mount St. Mary’s is currently in the process of commencing a national search for the next men’s basketball coach. The university has engaged the services of Korn Ferry to aid in conducting the search, indicative of a concerted effort to identify a suitable successor who can continue the legacy of success within the basketball program.
In light of these recent developments, there is a palpable sense of anticipation and interest surrounding the future of Mount St. Mary’s basketball. Despite the changes, the university remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing its facilities and resources, thereby reinforcing its standing as a distinguished basketball institution. As we await the appointment of a new head coach, it is evident that Mount St. Mary’s is on the cusp of a new chapter in its basketball program’s history.