Yavapai College

Michael Pantalione (636-63-30) enters his 32nd season in 2020 as the first and only head soccer coach of Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona. Hired in 1988, his tenure in Prescott, Arizona now spans over five different decades. Under his direction, Yavapai developed the most successful Junior College soccer program in the nation, capturing 78 championships including seven national championships, 19 final four finishes, a combined 43 region and district championships along with 28 conference titles. He currently has the best winning percentage (90%) of any collegiate men’s soccer coach and is the all-time leader in JUCO wins (636). In the history of Men's intercollegiate soccer (any level), he is the only coach to average over 20 wins per season.

In 1995, he was selected as the recipient of the NSCAA/NISOA National Merit Honor awarded to one college coach (2-year or 4-year/men’s or women’s) whose reputation is recognized as praiseworthy, and reflective of the highest standards of professional and ethical behavior. In 2006, he was the first active coach elected to the NJCAA Soccer Hall of Fame. In 2012, he received the NJCAA National Service Award given to those who have made significant contributions to junior college athletics. In 2015, he was awarded the NSCAA Letter of Commendation, presented for unusual achievement that clearly exceeds performance requirements, expectations and contributions beneficial to the NSCAA and soccer in the United States. In 2016, he was the recipient of the prestigious NSCAA Bill Jeffrey Award recognizing long-term service and contribution to collegiate soccer. Also in 2016, he was the first active coach in a men’s sport elected to the ACCAC Hall of Fame. Additionally, honors include seven NJCAA and five NSCAA National Coach of the Year Awards along with being named NSCAA West Region Coach of the Year 18 times. He is a member of the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame.

A native of Philadelphia and a former goalkeeper, Pantalione previously coached soccer at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, University of Montana, Kenyon College in Ohio, Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon and Archbishop Wood High School in Philadelphia.

He graduated from the University of Montana and earned his international soccer coaching license in England. Pantalione founded, developed, and directed youth soccer in Montana, including the first state program in Missoula. In addition, Pantalione has directed and coached various summer soccer camps across the nation. In 1980, he was named national soccer coach of the year by Special Olympics, Inc. of Washington, D.C. He is a 44-year member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America and served 23 years as National Chair for the NJCAA and NSCAA Soccer Ranking.