Following up on a report from earlier today. The change at Fairfield has now been made official…

Director of Athletics Paul Schlickmann announced on Monday that he has initiated a change in the leadership of the Men’s Basketball program, commencing a search to replace Head Coach Sydney Johnson. 

“I want to thank Coach Johnson for his commitment to Fairfield. He has led our program with integrity, served as a great mentor to our student-athletes and been a valued member of the University community,” said Schlickmann. “We wish him and his family the very best in the next phase of their journey.”

“I can’t thank Fairfield University, Mark Nemec and Paul Schlickmann enough for the opportunity I was given to lead the men’s basketball program for the past two seasons,” said Johnson. “My family and I will always be indebted to the Stag Nation for the memories over the years. I wish our student-athletes, alumni and fans all the best moving forward.”

In eight seasons as the Stags’ Head Coach, Johnson compiled a 116-147 record overall and a 68-84 record in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) play. Fairfield reached the MAAC Championship finals in 2012 and 2018. During Johnson’s tenure, the MAAC recognized 17 student-athletes for All-Conference or major award accolades.

“Fairfield University is on an amazing trajectory as an institution. We are committed to excellence in all aspects of the educational experience. As such, we have high expectations for the consistent success of our Men’s Basketball program and the multi-faceted impact it can have on our University culture.  This is a coveted role that will attract high-caliber candidates. I am confident we will find a leader who can embrace and implement our shared vision and values,” Schlickmann said.

A national search is underway to fill the Head Men’s Basketball Coach Position. Assisting Fairfield with the search will be Ventura Partners, Inc. led by Katy Young Staudt.