The FIU women’s basketball program has completed its staff as Head Coach Tiara Malcom has added Joe Silvestri as the final assistant for the 2016-17 season, the team announced today. Silvestri comes to the Panthers from nearby UCF, where he ascended to assistant coach after serving as director of program development.
“I am excited for Joe to join our staff,” noted Malcom. “Joe was one of the coaches that I noticed on the road recruiting, during my years as an assistant. He has a tireless work ethic and I am looking forward to having him make an impact on the program. His knowledge of the game and positive energy will add a special dynamic to what we are trying to do here at FIU.”
Earlier this season, Silvestri was named to the 30 Under 30 list, by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA). This list honors up-and-coming coaches under the age of 30 at all levels of women’s basketball. He was honored among just six men and 12 total Division I coaches for that award.
“I am extremely humbled by the opportunity Coach Malcom has given me to be a part of her wonderful coaching staff here at FIU,” said Silvestri. “I look forward to serving our student athletes in all capacities while helping our program compete for championships. The future of FIU women’s basketball is very bright and I can’t wait to get started.”
Silvestri spent the last four years professionally at the Orlando institution, where he graduated in 2012 with a degree in sport and exercise science, with a concentration in coaching. He spent two years in the role of director of program development before transitioning to an assistant coach role prior to the 2014-15 season. He was hired in that role after serving as a student manager for his last two years prior to graduation.
Silvestri performed a variety of tasks and roles at UCF, including assisting with practices, film, coordination of team travel, summer camps and on-campus recruiting events.
Silvestri and his wife Victoria will set up residence in Homestead, Florida.
The majority of the 12-member team returns to campus later this month to being preparations for the 2016-17 campaign.
