Montclair, NJ (7/5/11) – The Montclair State Department of Athletics has announced the hiring of Eddie Stawinski as the new head women’s volleyball coach. Stawinski becomes the sixth head coach in the history of the program which began in 1989.

Stawinski comes to Montclair State after spending last year as the head men’s volleyball coach at the University of New Haven.

Before taking over the New Haven program, Stawinski was an assistant coach for the University of Connecticut women’s volleyball program. In that position, he was responsible for everyday practice and game operations, recruiting Division I student-athletes, compliance documentation and arranging community service activities. Stawinski and the Huskies made the Big East Tournament two out of the three seasons that he was with the program. 

Stawinski also spent two seasons as an assistant coach with the women’s volleyball program at Springfield College. He handled the instruction of the team’s blocking strategies as well as opponent scouting and recruiting. Stawinski joined the coaching staff of his alma matter after a solid playing career with the Pride where he led Springfield to a pair of Division III National Championship titles and was selected as a Division III First Team All-American in 2003-04 and 2004-05. He is second all-time in career digs (787) and digs per game (2.56) for the Springfield men’s program.

In addition, Stawinski played professional volleyball in the Puerto Rico Superior League as a libero for three years on the Caribes de San Sebastian squad. 

Prior to his coaching stint with the Pride, Stawinski served as the Athletic Administration Intern at East Long Meadow High School and the Athletic Administration Graduate Assistant at Springfield College. In both positions, he assisted in all aspects of running the Athletics program. 

“We are very excited about Eddie joining our coaching staff,” said Director of Athletics Holly Gera. “He brings a strong volleyball playing and coaching background to our program.  Eddie is enthusiastic about leading the Red Hawks this fall and we look forward to a successful season.”

A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Stawinski received a bachelor’s degree in business management in 2005 and a master’s degree in physical education in 2008, both from Springfield College.

Stawinski and his new team will open their season on Friday, September 2 at the Labor Day Invitational at New York University.