Finalist - 2009 Coaches of the Year powered by Critical Reload

Billy Schmidt has helped University of Dayton head coach Brian Gregory develop a Top 25-caliber program.  Adding Schmidt to the Flyer coaching staff was Gregory’s first move after being name Dayton’s coach in 2003. Schmidt is involved with all aspects of the Flyer men’s basketball program, assisting with scouting, recruiting and player development.

Schmidt came to Dayton after nine seasons coaching in the SEC, The Big East, and the Big Ten. Schmidt had been on Tommy Amaker’s staff for three years from 2000 to 2003, beginning with Amaker at Seton Hall in 2000 before moving to Michigan with him.

Prior to Seton Hall, Schmidt was an assistant coach for three years (1997-2000) at Northwestern University under former Toronto Raptors head coach Kevin O’Neill. During his first two years at Northwestern, Schmidt began his working relationship and friendship with Brian Gregory. Schmidt also worked with O’Neill from 1994 to 1997 at the University of Tennessee. He joined the Volunteer staff as an administrative assistant in 1994 and was promoted to an assistant coach in 1996.

“Billy’s work-ethic is why he was a must-hire for me,” said Gregory. “His rapport with the players makes him an excellent coach and recruiter. His knowledge and ability to teach are critical to our success.”

The native of Stamford, Connecticut began his coaching career in the high school ranks, serving as an assistant coach to Steve Smith at Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, for two years (1992-94). During his tenure, Oak Hill won back-to-back national championships.