Bio

Michael Pantalione was the first head men’s soccer coach of Yavapai College. Under his direction, Yavapai developed the most successful Junior College soccer program in the nation -- compiling a 636-63-30 record, 7 National Championships, 19 Final Fours, and a combined 71 Region, District and Conference Titles.  His initial recruiting class captured the 1990 NJCAA National Title.  In the history of men’s intercollegiate soccer he has the distinction of being the only coach at any level to average over 20 wins per season, and compiled the highest winning percentage all-time.  He is also the all-time leader in JUCO wins (636).

In 1995, he was selected as the recipient of the NSCAA/NISOA National Merit Honor whose reputation is recognized as praiseworthy, and is 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. That same year, he was the first active coach in a men's sport elected to the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference 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.  In 2021, Yavapai College ensured the immeasurable impact and legacy created by the successful soccer program, named their new campus field – Michael Pantalione Field.  To acknowledge his achievement with emphasis on success and lifetime of devotion to the game, in 2022, he became the 73rd inductee into the United Soccer Coaches National Hall of Fame during the 82nd Annual Soccer Coaches Convention in Kansas City, Missouri.

A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, an alumnus of the University of Montana and a former goalkeeper, he was the National Chair for the NJCAA Soccer Rankings for 23 years in addition to serving on five other national soccer committees.