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Miami Dade College (MDC) will launch its highly anticipated men’s and women’s soccer teams in fall 2024, an addition to the college’s existing athletic programs.
MDC recently selected two coaches to lead the teams. MDC alumnus Ramiro Vengoechea has been named head coach of the inaugural MDC women’s soccer team. Giuseppe DePalo has been selected to be the head coach of the men’s team.
“As we continue our commitment to accelerating excellence and providing world-class opportunities for our students, I’m confident our new soccer teams will build upon our legacy of success in athletics,” said MDC president Madeline Pumariega. “With a proven track record of developing top-tier athletes and a passion for empowering young talent, these coaches embody the spirit of excellence that defines Miami Dade College.”
Coach Vengoechea has more than 15 years of soccer coaching experience in Miami’s unique sports ecosystem. Prior to MDC, he was head coach for the FC Surge, a Women’s Premier Soccer League team, which he led to two conference championships in 2018 and 2021.
During his time there he was named Conference Coach of the Year. He also served as varsity head coach at Our Lady of Lourdes Academy, leading the team to two FHSSA State Championships and six final fours. Coach Vengoechea was named Miami Herald Coach of the Year seven times from 2014 to 2021.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful to lead the first MDC women’s soccer team,” Coach Vengoech easaid. “As a Miami native, I’m excited to build this program in our community and look forward to creating a championship culture and a tradition of excellence, both on and off the field at MDC.”
Coach DePalo currently is the head coach of the U19 team at Inter Miami CF, Miami’s professional soccer club. A native of Milan, Italy, he previously served as general manager of technical staff for the Oakland Roots SC. Additionally, he was a staff coach with the Seattle Sounders FC. Coach DePalo has a master’s degree in sports management from Nova Southeastern University, where he was head coach of the men’s soccer program.
“It’s exciting to be the founding coach of MDC’s new men’s soccer team,” Coach DePalo said. “I look forward to working with students and developing a winning program that will serve many generations to come.”
MDC has a rich history of producing top athletes who succeed on and off the field, in large part thanks to dedicated coaches who mentor students. MDC teams have earned a total of 38 NJCAA national titles, including 16 in women’s sports. Many MDC sports alumni are members of the halls of fame in their respective collegiate and professional sports. Others are leaders in business and industry.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coaches Vengoechea and DePalo into our MDC family,” said Mike Balado, MDC director of athletics. “With their expertise, they will undoubtedly serve as integral assets to our athletic program, playing a pivotal role in the ongoing success and growth of our teams.”
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