BROOKVILLE, N.Y. – Long Island University has named Brendan Riley the head coach of the men's ice hockey program. Riley, who joins LIU after four seasons on the coaching staff at American International College, will serve as the second head coach in program history.

Riley joined AIC in July of 2021 as the team's Director of Hockey Operations. After one season in that role, Riley was promoted to assistant coach. He helped lead AIC to Atlantic Hockey Association regular season and tournament championships in 2022.

As a player, Riley was a four-year member of Mercyhurst University's team from 2016-2020. He served as an alternate captain during his senior season and played 91 total games for the Lakers.

Riley comes from a strong lineage of hockey coaches. His grandfather, Jack Riley, served as head coach at Army West Point for 36 years and famously led the United States Olympic team to the gold medal at the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympics. His father, Brian Riley, is currently Army's head coach, his brother, Jack Riley, is currently an assistant at Army, and his uncle Rob Riley, is also the former head coach at Army.

"I would like to start by thanking Dr. Cline, Michael Berthel, Elliott Charles, and the rest of the administration here at LIU for placing the trust in me to lead this program," said Riley. "It really is a privilege, and I am honored to be able to lead this group of student-athletes. 

"I am excited to get started and can't wait to hit the ground running this spring. There is a great opportunity here to capitalize on the momentum of last season and to carry on the culture that was built by Brett."

In 2025, the LIU men's hockey program enters its sixth season of competition on the heels of setting a program record with 20 wins in 2024-2025.