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| Endicott athletics photo |
Carthage welcomes Matt Popino as the new head coach for the Firebirds' football team. Popino brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the program. He replaces Dustin Hass, who resigned back in November after six seasons and an 18-33 record.
During his five seasons on the coaching staff at Endicott, Popino played a pivotal role in the Gulls' football excellence. In that span, Endicott secured three straight Commonwealth Coast Conference championships (2021 through 2023) and reached the NCAA playoffs each time.
Under his stewardship as defensive coordinator for the past three seasons, the Gulls secured impressive national rankings. Endicott gave up the second-fewest points in the country (7.5 per game) in 2022 and the third-fewest (9.7) in 2023. His unit also made the top 10 in total defense, sacks, and turnovers.
"I am excited to welcome Matt Popino and his wife, Leanne, to the Carthage and Kenosha communities," said Ryan Kane, director of athletics. "As we embark on this exciting journey to elevate our football program, we as a committee looked for a strong leader who has an exceptional understanding of the game and has experienced tremendous success at the NCAA Division III level but also embodies the values and commitment to excellence that define our institution. In Coach Popino, we have found that leader whose passion for football is matched only by his dedication to cultivating character, discipline, and brotherhood. We are poised to achieve new heights on and off the field, setting a new standard of excellence that reflects the proud tradition of our athletic department."
Popino contributed to an impressive 43-12 overall record (.782) in his time at Endicott, including 27-3 in conference play (.900). The Gulls won the New England Bowl, a regional championship series, in 2019.
As coordinator, "Coach Pop" developed 25 all-conference honorees (including two CCC Defensive Players of the Year), 16 all-region award winners, and two All-Americans. He earned regional and national recognition, most notably as D-III Defensive Coordinator of the Year this past year by Hansen Ratings.
At Carthage, Popino will begin his duties immediately. He succeeds Dustin Hass, who stepped down in November after six seasons.
"During his interview, Coach Pop had awesome energy, and his passion for the game was clearly displayed while he explained his philosophies," said Carthage junior quarterback Bryce Lowe, who was part of a players' committee that provided input during the coaching search. "The combination of his confidence and energy will help take the program to the next level. I'm excited for what's to come."
Popino came to Endicott as the linebackers coach in 2019, and he most recently added the role of associate head coach. Before that, he spent three noteworthy years at Rutgers.
Originally from Metuchen, New Jersey, Popino has a bachelor's degree in communication from Worcester State and a master's in applied communications from Fitchburg State. He began his coaching career with positions at both D-III football programs.