Vassar College head men’s basketball coach BJ Dunne announced Thursday the hiring of Matthew Droney as his new assistant coach, starting immediately.
Droney is no stranger to the Division III level, as the collegiate standout at Babson College recently captained his team to the 2017 NCAA National Championship. While at Babson, Droney helped lead the Beavers to a record of 83-11 during his three years at Babson, while also earning appearances in the Division III semifinals twice.
In the national title game this year, Droney was a key contributor, as he scored eight points on 3-of-3 shooting in a thrilling 79-78 win over Augustana (IL). For the season, Droney played in 32 games while posting one of the team’s best assist to turnover ratios as well. While at Babson, Droney and his squads earned two New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) titles. Droney graduated in May with a Bachelor of Science from Babson’s School of Business.
“I am very excited to add Matt Droney to our coaching staff,” said Dunne. “Matt’s personality, positivity and work ethic make him a great fit for our program. Matt is an absolute winner who possesses extreme leadership qualities. His experience this year as the captain of the National Championship team will be invaluable in helping us elevate the level of play and caliber of our program.
Before Babson, Droney was a 2013 graduate of Catholic Memorial High School in West Roxbury, Massachusetts. A four-year letter winner, Droney served as a captain during his junior and senior seasons, earning Boston Herald Dream Team and Boston Globe Super Team accolades. Furthermore, Droney collected Catholic League Most Valuable Player laurels as a senior, and was an All-Catholic League honoree for three seasons, scoring over 1,000 points for his career.
Droney has worked as a basketball coach with Massachusetts Premier Courts, coordinating drills and activities along with ensuring positive camp experiences. He also was a trainer for 94 Fifth Basketball Technologies, providing intensive, customized workouts for small groups.
“I am honored and extremely appreciative of the opportunity to become an assistant at Vassar College,” said Droney. “I want to thank Director of Athletics and Physical Education Michelle Walsh and head coach BJ Dunne for giving me this amazing opportunity. Coach Dunne has had great success in his young career and learning from him will be an invaluable experience. Our team is well-positioned for success and I cannot wait to see what we accomplish in the coming years.”
