ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst University Athletics announced key leadership promotions within the Lakers football program as it continues to build toward sustained competitive and academic success. In a move that reflects continuity and confidence in the program's direction, Thomas Sydeski has been named Head Football Coach, with Michael Waring elevated to General Manager, Fredrick Gladney transitioning to Assistant Head Coach and Director of Player Relations, and Kalleigh Burke joining the staff full time as Defensive Line Coach.
 
Sydeski was formally introduced as head coach at a press conference on Wednesday, Feb. 11, marking the beginning of the next chapter for Mercyhurst football. A native of Brockport, New York, Sydeski joined the Lakers prior to the 2024 season, having been hired by former head coach Ryan Riemedio.
 
Sydeski's promotion follows two seasons as Mercyhurst's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, during which the Lakers produced two of the most productive offensive campaigns in program history. In 2025, Mercyhurst ranked third in the NEC in total offense (331.4 yards per game) and second in passing offense (196.7 yards per game), results driven by steady development and attention to detail. Quarterback Adam Urena posted back-to-back 2,000-yard passing seasons, led the NEC in completion percentage in 2025, and threw for 44 touchdowns over two years. Offensive players such as Brian Trobel, Dylan Evans, and Blake Hoegler earned All-NEC recognition, reflecting a culture that values preparation, accountability, and collective success.
 
"Mercyhurst football is grounded in relationships, shared purpose, and a tireless work ethic," said Joe Spano, Director of Athletics. "Tom has been a key figure in the transformation of our football program throughout the reclassification process. The offense has seen significant success as a collective unit and in individual player growth. We are confident that Tom will bring that same level of impact and leadership to the entire program".

"We are grateful to Coach Ryan Riemedio for his years of service and for the foundation he established during a transformative period for our program," Spano continued. "By promoting from within, we are building on that foundation while positioning Mercyhurst football for continued growth, stability, and long-term success".
 
Ryan Riemedio's tenure at Mercyhurst reflects a period of significant growth and leadership within the football program. Serving the Lakers for more than a decade, including four seasons as head coach, Riemedio played a pivotal role in advancing the program's competitive standing during the transition to Division I. His commitment to student-athlete development and program excellence has left a lasting impact on Mercyhurst football. As he embarks on the next step in his coaching career  we extend heartfelt thanks for his time at Mercyhurst.
 
Sydeski has brought with him experience from successful stops at West Georgia, Bryant, Old Dominion, and FIU, where he helped develop conference award winners, nationally recognized quarterbacks, and championship-caliber offenses. At West Georgia, Sydeski coached the Gulf South Conference Freshman of the Year and four All-GSC selections, while his time at Bryant included mentoring a quarterback who earned NEC Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, Jerry Rice Award finalist recognition, and Freshman All-American status. At just 31 years old, Sydeski becomes one of the youngest head coaches in college football.
 
"I'm incredibly honored to lead this program," Sydeski said. "Mercyhurst football is a close-knit group built on trust, hard work, and belief in one another. Our staff is committed to developing student-athletes who compete with passion, excel academically, and represent this university the right way. We're excited to build on what's been established and continue pushing this program forward."
 
That shared commitment extends throughout the coaching staff. Waring has been instrumental in guiding the Lakers through their transition to Division I competition, helping develop both all-conference performers and nationally recognized student-athletes.
 
Gladney's leadership has driven consistent production in the passing game and on special teams. During his time with Mercyhurst, Gladney coached Rylan Davison and Evans to top-five NEC rankings in yards per game. Three Mercyhurst receivers finished in the top 10 in receiving yards per game in 2025, and five finished in the top 20 in 2024. He coached Evans to an All-NEC First Team selection in 2025 and Cameron Barmore to the same honor in 2024.
Burke's growth within the program has helped anchor a defense that ranked among the NEC's top units in 2025, while coaching multiple Phill Steele All-NEC selections.
 
Mercyhurst football's progress has been equally evident in the classroom. In the University's first year as a Division I and NEC member, Mercyhurst earned the NEC Institutional Academic Award with a record-setting 3.536 cumulative GPA across all sports. The football program contributed a 3.100 team GPA, underscoring the discipline and dedication required to succeed at the Division I level.
 
"What makes this program special is the way success is defined and pursued," said Dr. Laura Zirkle, Vice President for Student Life & Athletics. "Mercyhurst football continues to make meaningful strides — competitively, academically, and culturally. This staff embodies a deep commitment to our student-athletes, to each other, and to the values of Mercyhurst. We are proud of the legacy that has been built and excited about the direction this program is headed as we continue to move forward together".
 
With historic Division I milestones already achieved and a leadership team deeply invested in the program's mission, Mercyhurst football enters its next era united, forward-focused, and prepared to build on its legacy — honoring the tradition that has shaped the program while laying the groundwork for the future of Laker football.