Tony DiCicco — American goalkeeper and coach who led the USWNT to 1999 World Cup

Early life and playing career

DiCicco grew up in Connecticut and was involved in soccer from a young age. While he did not achieve widespread fame as a professional player, his experience as a goalkeeper informed his early coaching interests. He gained practical experience working with college, club and youth players and developed a reputation for teaching goalkeeping fundamentals and organization.

Coaching career and major achievements

Appointed head coach of the senior national team in 1994, DiCicco led the United States through several high-profile successes. Under his leadership the team won the gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games and captured the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup, a milestone event that expanded the visibility of women's soccer in the United States and beyond. After his tenure with the senior side, he continued to work with youth national teams and was head coach of the U.S. squad that won the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, helping to prepare a new generation of players for international competition.

Coaching style and influence

DiCicco was known for a pragmatic approach that combined technical drills for goalkeepers and outfield players, tactical preparation for tournament play, and an emphasis on mental readiness in high-pressure matches. Former players and colleagues often credited him with creating structured training environments and advancing the standards for goalkeeper coaching within the women's game. His teams were frequently noted for disciplined defending and effective set-piece preparation.

Later work and recognition

Beyond national-team duties, DiCicco remained active in soccer as a mentor, coach educator and television commentator, contributing to clinics, youth development programs and public discussions about the sport. He received tributes from players, coaches and administrators for his role in building the modern era of women's soccer in the United States, and his World Cup and Olympic victories are commonly cited among his most significant accomplishments.

Death and legacy

Tony DiCicco died on June 19, 2017 at his home in Wethersfield, Connecticut, after a battle with cancer. His passing prompted widespread remembrances that highlighted his impact on players and on the structure of the women's game. He is remembered for raising the profile of women's soccer in the United States and for helping to mentor several players who later became influential figures in the sport.

• Head coach, United States women's national team (1994–1999).
• 1996 Olympic gold medalist as coach of the U.S. women's team (Olympic).
• Head coach of the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup champion United States team.
• Head coach of the U.S. side that won the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup.