LCCC names Rinaldo as women's basketball coach

CHEYENNE, Wyoming – Danielle Rinaldo will take over as head coach for the Laramie County Community College women's basketball team, the college announced Monday. With previous experience as both an assistant coach and interim head coach at LCCC, Rinaldo brings a wealth of experience and a history of success to her new role.

“We are genuinely excited to have coach Rinaldo join our family as the next head women’s basketball coach,” said Mark Puev, LCCC athletic director. “We know that she is anxious to get started and look forward to her continuing to build the program.”

Returning to LCCC is an exciting opportunity, Rinaldo said, because of its supportive community, the growth potential for the women's basketball program and recent campus improvements that make it an ideal environment for student-athletes.  

“There’s a lot to be said about the LCCC campus and environment,” Rinaldo said. “Not only is it a great place for young student-athletes to grow and succeed, but in the last few years, LCCC has finished numerous on-campus projects. Having a new gym, new weight room and people who want to see athletics thrive will allow LCCC to be a recruiting hub for future Golden Eagles.”

In her most recent role at Dodge City Community College in Kansas, Rinaldo was the assistant women's basketball coach, contributing to a remarkable 27-7 season and a first-round win at the NJCAA National Tournament. Her tenure at Dodge City followed a successful stint at LCCC from 2018-2021. As the interim head coach during the 2020-21 season, the Golden Eagles achieved a 12-10 record, a third-place finish in the North sub-region and a second-round regional appearance. 

Bringing her recent coaching experience, as well as an enhanced understanding of student-athletes from her master’s degree pursuit, will help her lead the Golden Eagles to success, she said. 

“I hope to bring the same competitive drive, connections and passion to LCCC that I have experienced over the last three years,” Rinaldo said. “I am a better, well-rounded coach and person because of it.”  

Rinaldo holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Health and Fitness Promotion with a minor in Personal Training from Colorado Mesa University and a master’s degree in Exercise Science with a focus on the Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity from the University of Northern Colorado. In addition, she is a certified strength and conditioning specialist.

For more information about LCCC athletics, visit GoLCCC.com.