A local, private college is trying to entice more students as it moves into NCAA Division III membership sports. Villa Maria College has hired a new athletic director and head coach of men's baseball. Don Silveri is the former head coach of men's basketball at Daemen College. WBFO'S Focus on Education reporter Eileen Buckley says Silveri brings 38-years of experience to Villa where his career began.
"Since I left there, almost 40-years ago, I thought it would be a great opportunity for me as well as the college," said Silveri in a WBFO News interview.
In January, Villa announced it would be "getting back into the college sports game by re-launching their athletics program." By the fall of this year, Villa students will be able to compete in inter-collegiate men’s and women’s soccer and basketball. The college will plans to apply for NCAA Division III membership.
"They want to increase full time enrollment and they want to create a buzz on campus, and athletics is the way to go to do that," noted Silveri. "It's a great way to enhance the brand for the college."
Villa will also be adding tennis, golf, bowling, volleyball, and eventually lacrosse and rugby are part of the near future plans.
"I think Villa is the best kept secret in Western New York," said Silveri. He's already out starting to recruit students.
Silveri served as head coach for men’s basketball at Daemen College for 25 years, while spending 12 of those years as Director of Athletics. Silveri is one of Western New York’s winningest coaches, with 584 career collegiate victories and receiving six NAIA Division II conference “Coach of the Year” awards.
Silveri said it is also a chance for the college to get involved into the community. Villa wants to link the school with the nearby neighborhoods in Cheektowaga and Buffalo's east side.
"Just in the last few days I've had several organizations contacting me, wanting to have events at our facility," said Silveri. "I've already been contacted," said Silveri.
