Jan. 9, 2008

LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. - Siena College director of athletics John D'Argenio announced the hiring of Gareth Elliott as head men's soccer coach today. Elliott comes to Loudonville after serving five seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Rhode Island where he helped guide the Rams to three Atlantic-10 championships and three NCAA tournament appearances.

"Gareth will bring both playing and coaching experience to our program," D'Argenio said. "He has had success as both a player and a coach and brings that attitude and energy to our program. The strength of MAAC soccer grows. This past year two teams advanced to the NCAA tournament. We are confident Gareth's knowledge and approach will help to bring Siena to the forefront of MAAC soccer."

Elliott, a native of Belfast, Northern Ireland, stands among the most successful student-athletes in Rhode Island soccer history. During his playing career, he led the Rams to two Atlantic 10 regular-season titles, two Atlantic 10 postseason championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances.

"I'm excited to be taking over the Siena program," Elliott said. "I think I have a lot to bring to table. The MAAC is a very good conference, and I think the resources at Siena give us a chance to win the league, which is a main goal of mine. We want to reach the NCAA Tournament and advance, and I'm confident this will happen."

Elliott, a starting striker at Rhode Island from 1998-2001, ranks seventh all-time in career points. He appeared in 78 games over his career and finished with 87 points, which includes 31 goals and 25 assists. He was a three-time Atlantic 10 All-Championships team honoree, and was named National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-Region selection in 2001.

In 2000, Elliott was named the Atlantic 10 Tournament MVP, helping Rhode Island advance to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 round.

As a professional, Elliott played one season with the Ards Football Club of the Irish Premier League. He started 35 games for the squad over his career.

In 2003, Elliott returned to his alma mater to begin his collegiate coaching career as an assistant under former Rams head coach Ed Bradley. As assistant coach, Elliott helped lead URI to three Atlantic 10 Championships, including back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006. In the Rams last appearance in 2006, Elliott helped the team advance to the Second Round.

Elliott inherits the Siena men's soccer program following the retirement of Charlie Curto. Curto stood at the helm for 24 years. Last season, Siena finished 6-10-4 overall.