POUGHKEEPSIE, New York – The Marist university football program, preparing for its second season under head coach Mike Willis, has announced the appointment of Robbie Mangas as the new tight ends coach. Mangas brings a diverse background to the Red Foxes, having both played and coached at Dartmouth College and the University at Buffalo. This addition is expected to strengthen Marist’s offensive strategies and enhance their recruiting efforts. Mangas’s experience and leadership are seen as valuable assets as the team aims for success in the upcoming season.

Robbie Mangas’s move to Marist marks the next step in his developing coaching career. His recent positions at the University at Buffalo provided him with practical experience in offensive strategy and player development. Before his coaching career, Mangas was a notable player, known for his leadership and contributions on the field. His transition from player to coach brings a unique perspective to the Marist program.

From Ivy League Champion to Red Foxes Coach

Robbie Mangas’s journey to Marist began with a strong academic and athletic foundation. He spent four years as a member of Dartmouth’s football program, where he excelled both on the field and as a leader. His time with the Big Green was marked by significant team success, including multiple Ivy League championships. His experience in a winning surroundings is expected to translate well to his coaching role at Marist.

During his time at Dartmouth from 2018-21, the Big Green achieved a 27-3 record across three seasons of play, securing two Ivy League championships. The 2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, Mangas received an Honorable mention All-Ivy selection while serving as team captain, highlighting his leadership and performance. Over his Dartmouth career, Mangas started in 10 games, recording 21 receptions for 424 yards and three touchdowns. His on-field performance and leadership qualities make him a valuable addition to the Marist coaching staff.

Transition to Coaching: Buffalo and Beyond

After concluding his playing career in 2022 at Buffalo, Mangas transitioned into coaching, starting as a student assistant in the spring of 2023. he quickly advanced, serving as an offensive analyst and quality control coach during the 2023 season. This past season, Mangas held the position of graduate assistant, where he contributed to the preparation and drills for Buffalo’s wide receivers. His rapid progression demonstrates his dedication and aptitude for coaching.

Mangas’s experience at Buffalo provided him with a solid foundation in coaching methodologies and player development. His responsibilities included assisting with offensive strategies, analyzing game footage, and working directly with players to improve their skills. This hands-on experience has prepared him for his new role at Marist, where he will focus on developing the team’s tight ends. His diverse coaching background will be instrumental in shaping the Red Foxes’ offense.

Coach Willis Praises Mangas’s Leadership and Experience

Marist head football coach Mike Willis expressed his enthusiasm for the addition of Robbie mangas to his staff. Willis highlighted mangas’s leadership qualities, his experience as a team captain, and his familiarity with the competitive landscape of college football. The head coach believes Mangas will bring a unique perspective and skill set to the program.

I am excited to add Robbie Mangas to our staff. Robbie has been a team captain at the FBS and FCS level. I admired him as a player at Dartmouth and competed against him for championships in the Ivy League. He has been mentored by some of the finest coaches and men in college football. It’s rare to find a young coach as polished and prepared to coach Division I tight ends as Robbie; his interview was one of the moast impressive I’ve conducted during my career. Robbie also brings recruiting prowess in key geographic areas to our staff. Robbie will make Marist better every day!
Mike Willis, Marist University Head Football Coach

willis’s comments underscore the high expectations he has for Mangas and the value he places on Mangas’s unique blend of playing and coaching experience.the emphasis on recruiting prowess suggests that Mangas will also play a key role in attracting top talent to the Marist football program. His ability to identify and recruit promising players will be crucial for the team’s future success.

Mangas’s Viewpoint: Eager to contribute to Marist’s Success

Robbie mangas himself expressed his excitement about joining the Marist football program and his eagerness to work with the team’s tight ends. He also conveyed his gratitude to the University at Buffalo for the opportunities and relationships he developed during his time there. Mangas is looking forward to contributing to the growth and success of the Red Foxes.

I am beyond excited to join the Marist football program. I’m thankful to Coach willis for offering me this possibility, and I can’t wait to start working with our tight end group, contribute to the offensive staff, and learn from Coach Willis, coach Weyl, and the rest of the coaching staff.I also wont to thank everyone at Buffalo—the community, the football program, and the athletic department—for all the opportunities and relationships that have prepared me for this next step. I’m looking forward to getting started and helping this program grow and succeed.
Robbie Mangas, Marist University Tight Ends Coach

Mangas’s enthusiasm and his commitment to contributing to the program’s growth reflect his dedication to coaching and his desire to make a positive impact on the Marist football team. His eagerness to learn from experienced coaches and his focus on player development will be valuable assets to the program.

A Collegiate Career Marked by achievement

Before his coaching career, Mangas distinguished himself as a versatile and accomplished player. His five-year collegiate playing career included significant contributions at both Dartmouth and Buffalo.At Dartmouth, he was a key member of a highly triumphant team, while at buffalo, he demonstrated his adaptability and leadership. His playing experience provides him with a unique understanding of the game from a player’s perspective.

Mangas concluded his playing career at Buffalo in the 2022 season, where he was named a game captain five times. He recorded 16 receptions for 141 yards, contributing to the bulls’ success. The team’s victory over Georgia Southern in the Camellia Bowl marked the program’s third bowl win in its history, further highlighting Mangas’s role in the team’s achievements. His contributions on and off the field demonstrate his commitment to team success.

Academic Excellence and Leadership Awards

Along with his athletic achievements,Mangas has also excelled academically. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Dartmouth in the fall of 2021, majoring in Government.His leadership qualities were recognized with the Reggie Williams Award for Leadership in 2021. He furthered his education at Buffalo, earning a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and policy in the spring of 2023. There, he was named to the National Society of Leadership and Success. His academic achievements and leadership awards demonstrate his well-rounded character and commitment to excellence.