The Columbia College Athletic Department announced the hiring of Billy Dineen, taking over as the third head men's lacrosse coach in program history beginning August 2024.
Dineen previously served as the head men's lacrosse coach at Benedictine College (Kan.) from 2022-24. In the 2024 campaign, he led the No.5-ranked Ravens to a runner-up appearance in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Championship game, while securing an 11-5 overall record and a 5-0 HAAC record.
"I am super excited and grateful for the opportunity to take over the men's lacrosse program at Columbia College," Dineen expressed. "I want to thank Director of Athletics, James Arnold, for believing in my vision for this program and the opportunity to coach at a place I've always wanted to coach at."
During the 2023 season, Dineen took home HAAC Co-Coach of the Year honors, while also producing two NAIA All-Americans.
"We were so pleased with the quality of the resumes we received and were more than thrilled we were able to bring Billy to CC," James Arnold, Director of Athletics stated.
"Columbia has a short, but proud history in the NAIA of being a powerhouse within the Midwest, my goal is to build the program back up the right way and get us back to being regulars at the NAIA Men's Lacrosse National Invitational," Dineen continued. "I'm excited to join an amazing staff, terrific campus, and top of the line lacrosse facilities!"Â
Prior to his time with the Ravens, Dineen spent time as head coach at Midland University (Neb.) for one season, while also serving as a graduate assistant at William Penn University (Iowa) as offensive coordinator.Â
In his playing career, Dineen suited up for the University of St. Mary (Kan.) and served as team captain.
He received both, his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Sports Management (University of St. Mary / William Penn University).
"Coach Dineen is a proven head coach, has significant NAIA experience, and brings a great energy and enthusiasm to the program," Arnold expressed.
