Limestone University's defensive coordinator TJ Lesniewski has a rich background in both education and football, marked by significant achievements and contributions to various programs.
He began his academic journey at West Liberty University in West Liberty, WV, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Physical Education in 2014, with a minor in Health and Fitness. His passion for education continued at Muskingum University in New Concord, OH, where he completed a Master of Arts in Education in Adult Education in 2018.
His playing career as a linebacker at West Liberty University from 2009 to 2013 was distinguished by being a four-year letter winner and a member of the 2009 WVIAC Championship team. This experience laid a strong foundation for his future coaching career.
He started his coaching career as an Assistant Running Backs Coach and Assistant Special Teams Coordinator at West Liberty University in 2014. He then moved on to Marietta College in Marietta, OH, where he served as the Linebacker Coach and Video Coordinator from 2015 to 2016. His responsibilities included evaluating and developing linebackers, assisting with special teams, and managing all film needs.
From 2016 to 2018, he was a Graduate Assistant and Defensive Line Coach at Muskingum University. During his tenure, he helped develop four All-Conference players and was responsible for the development and evaluation of defensive tackles and defensive ends.
His next role was at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA, where he served as the Defensive Line Coach and Director of Football Operations from 2018 to 2022. Under his guidance, the team tied the defensive single-game sack record and produced the first-ever Division 1 All-Conference player in school history. He also managed all aspects of travel and film needs, showcasing his organizational skills.
In 2022, he joined Endicott College in Beverly, MA, as the Linebacker Coach. His tenure was marked by the team's success, including winning the Commonwealth Coast Conference Championship and achieving a #22 national ranking. His linebackers had the highest average GPA on the team, and the defense was nationally ranked in several categories.
Currently, he is the Defensive Line Coach at Limestone University in Gaffney, SC, a position he has held since February 2023. His impact has been significant, breaking multiple school records for sacks and tackles for loss. His coaching has led to numerous individual accolades for his players, including SAC All-Conference honors.
In addition to his coaching roles, he has also served as an adjunct professor, teaching courses designed to help freshman student-athletes transition from high school to college at both Merrimack College and Limestone University.
His skills extend beyond the field, with proficiency in various software and tools essential for modern football coaching, including XO’s Thunder, ARMS, Microsoft Visio, Front Rush, Playmaker, HUDL, Microsoft Office, and Google Docs.
This comprehensive background highlights his dedication to both education and football, making him a valuable asset to Limestone University's football program.
