Joe Krupinski, an assistant men's coach with Division II Saint Michael's the last seven seasons, and the top assistant the last three seasons, has been named the head men's basketball coach at Lyndon State.
He replaces Randy Rathburn Jr., who led the Hornets to a 5-15 record this past season.
"I want to thank everyone at Saint Michael's for making the last seven years such a great experience in my life and career; it is truly a special place with special people," said Krupinski. "I am excited about the opportunity that awaits me at Lyndon State, and I would not have that opportunity were it not for SMC. I wish everyone at Saint Michael's good luck and all the best in the future."
Krupinski helped lead Saint Michael's to a 16-13 record in 2006-07, and coached two Northeast-10 Conference Freshmen of the Year, as well as a First Team All-Conference selection.
He joined the Purple Knights' program after a two-year stint at RPI, where he was the top assistant for the Engineers' program. He helped guide RPI to the ECAC Division III semifinals and the Upstate Collegiate Athletic Association finals in 2000-01.
Prior to his arrival at RPI, Krupinski was an assistant coach at his alma mater, Springfield, from 1997-99. He was involved with the recruitment of student-athletes, on-the-floor coaching and was the team's liaison with both admissions and the Sports Information office.
While at Springfield, Krupinski helped guide the Pride to a 26-2 record and a No. 5 national ranking in the 1997-98 season, both marks tops in program history. The following season, Springfield compiled a 19-8 record, finishing second in the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference Tournament. Krupinski also recruited the first two Rookies of the Year in the newly created NEWMAC.
"Joe is an ideal fit to take the men's basketball program into the new era of the North Atlantic Conference, said LSC athletic director Chris Ummer. "With his experience, knowledge and passion for the game, Joe will also be an excellent role model for our student-athletes. LSC is fortunate to have had the opportunity to hire a men's basketball coach with his background."
At Springfield, Krupinski earned a bachelor's degree in sports management in 1997 and went on to receive his master's degree in education in 1999.