EDISON, NJ “ Fairfield University men's basketball coach Tim O'Toole has been named The Rock Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, by his peers - the MAAC's head coaches.

O'Toole was named the head men's basketball coach at Fairfield University on April 2, 1998, becoming the first alumnus to oversee the program and the 10th coach in University history. He currently owns a 88-85 record at Fairfield. Last year, O'Toole led the Stags to an overall mark of 19-12, a second-place finish in the league and a trip to the NIT. In his second season he guided the Stags to a 14-15 record and a third place finish in the MAAC standings.

O'Toole owns vast experience as a collegiate assistant. He has held posts at Seton Hall (1997-98), Duke (1995-97), Syracuse (1992-95), Iona (1990-91), Army (1989-90) and Fordham (1988-89). Seton Hall earned an NIT berth in 1997-98, while Duke posted a 42-22 mark and made two NCAA trips during O'Toole's stay. While at Syracuse, the Orangemen went 85-26 and earned three NCAA Tourney berths.

His success on the collegiate level began as a player for Fairfield, becoming only the fourth player in the history of the program to be named captain twice (1985-86 and 1986-87). He missed the 1985-86 campaign as a medical red-shirt after an injury during October. O'Toole returned for the 1986-87 campaign and helped the Stags capture their second straight MAAC title and an NCAA tournament berth against eventual national champion Indiana University. He was named co-MVP following his junior season after averaging 11.6 points per game. O'Toole earned the Patrick Burke award in 1983 and 1984, given by the University to a player who shows the most hustle and determination. He received the Jerry Lademan award, presented to a Stag for academic success. O'Toole earned the Male Athlete of the Year as a senior.