Anthony “AJ” Cappello joined the MCC Athletics program as Head Coach for Men’s Soccer in January 2026. AJ is a McHenry County native, graduating from Cary-Grove High School, and participating on the MCC Soccer team in the early 90’s. He finished his successful playing career at St. Xavier and earned his B.S. in Biology. He also serves as Director of Coaching at Crystal Lake Soccer Federation.

AJ is looking forward to recruiting quality area talent, developing student-athletes, and helping them move on to the next level as students and athletes.  

Coaching Experience

• Director of Coaching | Crystal Lake Soccer Federation (2022–Present)

• Assistant Director of Coaching | Crystal Lake Soccer Federation (2020–2022)

• U8–U10 Technical Director | Crystal Lake Force (2020–2021)

• Staff Coach | Crystal Lake Force (2017–2020)

• Varsity Boys Soccer Head Coach | Jacobs High School (2009–2018)

• Varsity Girls Soccer Head Coach | Jacobs High School (2009–2014)

• Technical Director / Staff Coach | Algonquin Lake in the Hills Soccer Association (ALITHSA) (2011–2017)

• Staff Coach | Inter Football Club (2004–2007)

Coaching Qualifications

• United States Soccer Federation (USSF) National B License

Educational Background

• Master of Arts in School Leadership | Concordia University – Chicago, IL

• Bachelor of Science in Biology | Saint Xavier University – Chicago, IL

Coaching and Playing Accomplishments

Coaching Highlights

• Northwest Herald Boys Soccer Coach of the Year | 2016, 2017

• Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Regional Championships | 2011, 2015, 2016, 2017

• Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Sectional Championships | 2016, 2017

• Fox Valley Conference Champions | 2015, 2016

• Player Development: Mentored six All-State players and one All-American

Playing Highlights

• Collegiate Athlete | Saint Xavier University (2002–2006)

• All-Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) Player | 2006