May 24, 2004

EASTON, Pa. (www.lafayette.edu) - Lafayette head football Frank Tavani has announced the addition of Antoine Smith to the Leopard coaching staff.

Smith comes to Lafayette from the University of Maine, where he spent the 2003 season as the defensive line coach. He will fill the same role at Lafayette.

"We're extremely excited to have Antoine join our staff," Tavani said. "He's a high-energy individual who is passionate about what he does. He brings a lot of enthusiasm and I know he is looking forward to making a difference with our program."

Smith was a three-year starter at defensive tackle for Maine during his playing days and earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and kinesiology in 2001. Prior to returning to his alma mater, Smith spent the 2002 season as the defensive line coach and strength and conditioning enhancement coordinator at Minot State in North Dakota. He helped guide Minot State to the 2002 Dakota Athletic Conference championship and a berth in the NAIA playoffs.

"Our defensive line at Minot State led the conference in sacks and stopping the run," Smith said. "I want to have an impact here right away and make sure that we get better every day. Everything that we do within our position group is going to be based on learning and accountability. It is important that we learn and understand technique early and everyone will be held accountable for their performance every time we step on the field."

Following his graduation from Maine, Smith spent one season as the defensive coordinator for Fowler High School in Syracuse, N.Y. He also served as the defensive coordinator at Orono High School in Orono, Maine while still completing undergraduate work in 2000.

Smith, a teaching assistant at Maine as an undergrad and a secondary education instructor in the Syracuse City School District, is pursuing a master's degree in education from Minot State.

Smith fills the opening in the Lafayette staff left by Chris Taylor, who resigned from his position as the defensive line coach in February.

Lafayette opens its 123rd football season at home, hosting Marist on Sept. 4. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Fisher Field.