He officially was named head coach on June 20, 2019.

Gilardi returned to Long Island after spending eight successful seasons with Towson, including the final six seasons as associate head coach. He helped guide the Tigers to five CAA championships and NCAA Tournament appearances and a 2017 Final Four berth. In 2019, the team made program history, earning a No. 1 ranking in the national polls for the first time. In his role, Gilardi masterminded Towson's attack as the offensive coordinator while also being tasked with attracting the nation's top talent as recruiting coordinator.

Off the field, Gilardi played a pivotal role in the team's academic success, serving as a liaison for the Academic Support Services at Towson.

Gilardi previously served as an assistant coach at the United States Naval Academy, Ohio State and Denison. In his three years with Navy, the Midshipmen earned a Patriot League title and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2009. At Ohio State, his alma mater, the Buckeyes reached the 2008 NCAA quarterfinals.

Gilardi played collegiately at Ohio State from 2000 through '04. He was a three-year starter, a two-time All-GWLL selection and a team captain his senior season.

Following graduation, he signed a free-agent contract with the Long Island Lizards of Major League Lacrosse and began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant coach with the Buckeyes.