Vignocchi steps down as soccer coach

Updated: May 3, 2011 6:30PM

Paul Vignocchi’s goal for this school year was to put himself in position for a job in administration.

When the opportunity recently presented itself, he couldn’t say no.

Vignocchi learned he will become an assistant athletic director at Glenbrook North, but he also realized he needed to give up one of his soccer coaching jobs.

Vignocchi broke the news to the girls last week that he will not be returning to the team for the 2012 season. He also is the boys head coach.

“This is a tremendous opportunity that I couldn’t pass up,” he said. “It’s definitely one of those bittersweet feelings, and it’s sad to leave. But I am excited for the next challenge in my life.”

Vignocchi played soccer at Glenbrook North and graduated in 1995. He then

went on to play at Northern Illinois before later returning to the Northbrook school as a teacher and coach.

Vignocchi got the boys job in 2004 and the girls position in 2006.

“That’s a big commitment, and I know and can’t keep doing both,” he said.

Under Vignocchi, the girls have established themselves as one of the top programs in the area. He’s won three CSL North titles and one regional title. Last spring, the Spartans set a program record for wins with 18.

After last week’s tournament title in Burlington, Iowa, the Spartans are three wins away from tying that mark and are on their way to another league title. They also made team history with an eight-game shutout streak.

Vignocchi knows he will be leaving the girls in good shape. Sophomore Montana Paley scored five goals and had three assists as the Spartans went 3-0 in Iowa. Freshman Rachel Hirshman added four goals and two assists. The team’s starting goalie is sophomore Jen Liberman.

“Whoever they go with next will get a great job,” he said. “It’s a phenomenal job with lots of community support. There’s also a lot of youth on this team. There’s a bright future here.”

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