Trey Keeley was officially named the head coach of Mercyhurst Men's Lacrosse on August 30th, 2023.
Keeley comes to Erie from Cleveland State University where he was an Assistant Coach while also assuming Offensive Coordinator responsibilities.
"I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to join Mercyhurst University and serve the proud tradition and championship legacy of the men's lacrosse program," said Keeley. "I appreciate Andy Simon-Wambach, Stacey Guadette, and the entire university administration for trusting me with this incredible opportunity to make a difference in the campus community."
Under Keeley's direction the Vikings made serious improvements in two seasons, Cleveland State saw their goals per game climb 2.55 goals higher in his first year while assists went up 1.65 per game. The Vikings also capitalized on man up situations more often, seeing a 13.9% increase in efficiency and jumping into the top 15 in the country during the 2023 season. Keeley's long-standing tradition of high-octane offense is something he looks to bring to Erie and continue the Laker's history of winning.
"I'd also like to thank Coach German and his family for allowing me to be a part of the CSU lacrosse program these past two years," said Keeley when reflecting on his time at Cleveland State. "I am forever grateful for the mentorship and friendship Coach German and his family provided me, my wife and my girls. The athletic department at CSU has incredible leadership and it was a blessing to be a part of Viking family and their mission to serve student-athletes and the city of Cleveland. I am excited to follow all of their future success!"
Keeley began his coaching career at Frostburg State where he was the offensive coordinator and face off coach for a program that was named the most improved team in D3 lacrosse. After 2 seasons at Frostburg State, Keely went to Ohio Wesleyan as the Associate Head Coach and offensive coordinator from 2014-17. During his time with the Battling Bishops, the team accumulated a winning percentage of .861 (31-5) which included an 18-1 campaign in 2015, helping the team to the NCAA quarterfinals.
"Trey has a demonstrated history of success as a coach and clearly has a passion for lacrosse that the current players and alumni will love." said Interim Athletic Director Andy Simon-Wambach "We are thrilled that Trey, his wife and daughters will be joining the Mercyhurst family and look forward to him building on the past successes of the Mercyhurst men's lacrosse program."
Following his stint at Ohio Wesleyan he moved on to DIII Baldwin Wallace in Berea, Oh. where he was named the head coach in 2017. Keeley helped the Yellow Jackets find plenty of success in his four seasons at the helm, going 42-14 with two OAC championship appearances to his name. Keeley's squad had their best season in 2021 when they were conference champions, and he was named conference coach of the year while boasting 11 all conference players. The 2019 season also proved to be one of his best offensive seasons in Baldwin Wallace history as the team scored 309 goals as a team while being the best in the country in shooting percentage and top five in goals per game.
"We are excited to bring on Trey," said Vice President for Student Life Laura Zirkle. "He has a passion for building strong programs on and off the field and we look forward to see what he does for the university and it's students."
Keeley begins his responsibilities as the head coach immediately, gearing up for the upcoming 2024 season.
What They're Saying:
"Trey is a homerun hire for the University and men's lacrosse program. He is going to bring energy and fresh ideas to the program. I am confident that his talents will take the program to a new level of success. Best of luck to Trey, the Keeley family, and the Hurst Train!"
Chris Ryan
Head Coach – Mount St Mary's
Former Head Coach – Mercyhurst University
"In just a few years, Coach Keeley made a tremendous impact on not just Viking Lacrosse but on the entire CSU community. Mercyhurst is getting an elite coach but more importantly a first-class human being. I speak for my players and staff when I say thank you to Trey for all his efforts and leaving his mark on the program. We wish him, Katrina, Remy and Rowan all the best on this incredible opportunity."
Andy German
Head Coach – Cleveland State University