News Summary
Mike Sirignano has resigned as Director of Strength and Conditioning at East Carolina University, just months after being hired. His departure raises questions about the transition ahead of spring practice, as the Pirates prepare for the upcoming season. Colton Susen has stepped in as interim director while the university searches for a permanent replacement.
Mike Sirignano Resigns as ECU’s Director of Strength and Conditioning
In a surprising move that has certainly sent ripples through the athletic community, Mike Sirignano has officially resigned from his post as Director of Strength and Conditioning at East Carolina University (ECU). His departure has been confirmed by sources close to the program, revealing that he will be pursuing opportunities outside of the athletic arena. It’s an unexpected twist in what was just the beginning of his journey at ECU, where he was hired only mid-December.
What Led to the Departure?
Sources indicate that ECU acknowledges his resignation, but it appears they are keeping their comments to a minimum. Sirignano had a dynamic background and was expected to bring his expertise to the Pirates, after spending six months at Rutgers where he honed his coaching skills. Prior to his stint at Rutgers, he held notable positions as the head strength coach at Appalachian State, Louisville, and Georgia State, even stepping in as the interim head coach at Georgia State during his tenure there. With such a wealth of experience, his exit brings an air of curiosity about what prompted such a quick transition.
Transitioning Ahead of Spring Practice
During his time at ECU, Sirignano had taken charge of overseeing winter workouts for the Pirates’ football program and the entire strength and conditioning department. His arrival had been part of a bigger plan to revamp the team’s training, as he replaced former strength coach “Big John” Williams. Williams had been a part of the program since 2019, closely connected to former head coach Mike Houston, so it’s understandable that transitions in staffing can lead to shifts in direction and philosophy.
Following Sirignano’s departure, the responsibility now falls to three assistant strength coaches who are stepping up to support the football team. This restructuring comes at a crucial time as the Pirates gear up to begin their spring practice on March 25. Blake Harrell, who is in his first full offseason as head coach, faces the exciting challenge of preparing his team amidst these changes.
Who’s in Charge Now?
For the time being, Colton Susen, who serves as the head strength coach for men’s basketball, is taking on the role of interim director of strength and conditioning. ECU wasted no time in posting the job opening to find a permanent replacement, indicating they are committed to bringing in someone to lead the department properly.
The Pirate’s Year So Far
The Pirates concluded the previous season with an impressive overall record of *8-5*, clinching a win at the Military Bowl against NC State. Harrell ended the season on a high note, securing victories in five of the last six games after being named the full-time head coach. This summer, not only will the Pirates work on their strength and conditioning, but they will also be putting the finishing touches on their strategies to face NC State once again when they open the 2025 season on August 28, 2025.
Reflecting on a Short Stint
Before coming to ECU, Sirignano contributed significantly to the success of App State during the mid-2010s and made the move to Louisville in 2019 following head coach Scott Satterfield. Interestingly, after parting ways with the Cardinals in 2021, he joined Georgia State but was swiftly brought in as interim head coach earlier this year.
Stretching back over a decade, Sirignano has amassed a strong portfolio, having run his own training center and even coaching at Woonsocket High School in Rhode Island. He graduated from Bridgewater State University in 2007 with a degree in physical education and had quite the athletic career as a two-time NCAA Division III All-American.
Next Steps for ECU
As the search for a new director of strength and conditioning unfolds, both players and coaching staff will undoubtedly be eager for stability. Transitions are never easy, but with an upcoming spring practice, the ECU Pirates hope to transform this change into an opportunity for growth. Everyone is buzzing about what’s next for this ambitious program!
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Additional Resources
- 247Sports: Mike Sirignano Resigns as ECU’s Director of Strength and Conditioning
- ECUPirates: Sirignano Named Director of Strength and Conditioning
- WITN: ECU Football Players Enter Transfer Portal
- Football Scoop: Strength Scoop – February 13, 2025
- USF Bulls: Frank Failace – Staff Profile
- Wikipedia: East Carolina University
- Google Search: East Carolina football
- Google Scholar: Strength and Conditioning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports
- Google News: ECU football
