Gaffney, SC -- Limestone college men's lacrosse coach Mike Cerino announced on Thursday morning that he was stepping down only months afler leading the Saints to the NCAA Division II national championship. Limestone, officials have named Bill Malone, an assistant for the last two years, as the programs coach on an interim basis.

Cerino leaves Limestone for Charlotte Latin where he will coach the boy's lacrosse team and serve as a physical education instructor. Cerino reflected on his decision saying, "I want to thank the Limestone College family and President Dr. Walt Griffin for all that they have done for me, the team and my family over the years. For the last 10 years our team worked hard and tirelessly to bring this program to national prominence. Winning the national championship back in May allowed us to reach that goal. Having accomplished what we set out to do back in 1990, I feel tbat its time to turn the program over to someone else and at the same time spend more time with may family. I will always remember Limestone College."

Cerino started the Limestone men's lacrosse program in 1990 and compiled an 80-55 record over those 10 seasons. Cerino's accomplishments include two Deep South Conference Coach of the Year honors and three DSC titles. In addition 28 players have earned All-American honors while 49 others have earned All-Conference honors. The Saints went 14-2 this past season, capping the program's most successful season to date by beating C.W. Post 10-9 in the NCAA Division II National Championship. Limestone's number three ranking in this year's final USILA Div. II poll was the Saint's highest in history.

Coach Bill Malone takes over the reigns of the Saints lacrosse program on an interim basis after serving as the defensive coordinator and goal tending coach the last two years.