Five Towns College Welcomes Back John Mateyko as Director of Athletics

Five Towns College is thrilled to welcome back John Mateyko as our new Director of Athletics. A seasoned leader with more than 20 years of coaching and athletic administration experience, John returns to FTC with an impressive résumé that includes over 250 career wins and a deep commitment to student-athlete development.

Most recently, he served as the boys' basketball head coach at Plainedge High School (2021–2024). Prior to that, he was Director of Operations for the men's basketball program at Iona College. His earlier tenure at Five Towns saw the athletics program rise to national recognition—momentum we're eager to reignite under his leadership.

"I couldn't be more excited to begin working with our student-athletes and coaches," said Mateyko. "We've had some great success in recent years, and I'm ready to help build on that foundation."

Expanding the Sound Athletics Program

Under John's leadership, Five Towns is setting its sights on growth. Plans are in motion to expand our athletic offerings with the introduction of:

• Women's Soccer
• Women's Flag Football
• Women's Volleyball

These additions aim to broaden participation opportunities and foster a stronger athletic culture across campus.

Building a Stronger NACIA

John is also actively working with fellow members of the North Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association (NACIA) to strengthen its role within the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA). The shared goal is to position the NACIA as one of the most competitive and respected conferences in the country.

About John Mateyko

John's career includes key leadership roles across the region:

• Plainedge High School (2021–2024) – Boys Basketball Head Coach
• Iona College (2018–2020) – Director of Operations, Men's Basketball
• Five Towns College (2016–2018) – Director of Athletics & Men's Basketball Coach
• 13-6 season in 2017–18
• Ranked No. 19 in USCAA D2 Power Rankings
• Nation's leader in steals per game; top 10 in multiple defensive categories
• Dowling College (2014–2016) – Head Men's Basketball Coach
• St. Joseph's College (2001–2014) – Head Coach, Winningest in program history (199–146)
• 2× Skyline Coach of the Year; NCAA and ECAC tournament appearances

John earned both his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and master's in Human Technology from American International College.

John's return to FTC marks not just a homecoming, but a renewed commitment to excellence in athletics. We are thrilled to welcome John back to Five Towns College and look forward to the energy, vision, and leadership he brings to the Sound Athletics program.