Michael Catanzarite has joined the Dordt University men’s soccer program as an assistant coach, bringing experience as a collegiate player, youth coach, professional player and international scout.
Catanzarite’s soccer journey has taken him from New York to Virginia, Ohio and Australia before bringing him to northwest Iowa. He will work alongside interim head coach Tim Lee, with recruiting among his primary responsibilities.
Faith and Relationships Shape Coaching Approach
Catanzarite played collegiately at Liberty University and Cedarville University. He says attending two Christian universities helped shape both his faith and his approach to coaching.
“Both were Christian universities, so I got to be around other guys who loved Christ,” Catanzarite said. “It was a really good experience to be around like-minded people who were seeking the same things. I also got to play for multiple different coaches with different strengths, and those are things I’m looking to take with me into this next chapter.”
While his love for soccer initially drew him toward coaching, Catanzarite says the opportunity to influence players ultimately convinced him to pursue the profession.
“The easy answer is that I love soccer and wanted to stay involved in it,” Catanzarite said. “But beyond that, I’ve seen the impact a coach can have on someone—for better or worse. I think it’s a big responsibility. I want to encourage players in their strengths, get the best out of them, and make sure they know I care about them as players and as people.”
Catanzarite said Dordt’s mission stood out during conversations with members of the university and its soccer program.
Recruiting Experience Spans Several Levels
Catanzarite has coached at the youth and academy levels and spent five months playing professionally in Australia while also coaching players between the ages of 12 and 17.
Most recently, he worked as a scout for Detroit City FC and evaluated players from several countries.
“I’ve watched players from Montenegro, Finland and many other countries,” Catanzarite said. “That experience helps you identify talent, but it also helps you understand what kind of people fit a program.”
That experience will help Catanzarite as Dordt recruits high school players, international prospects and transfers. He says the Defenders are looking for players who fit the culture Lee and the coaching staff are working to build.
Catanzarite describes his coaching style as vocal, honest and encouraging. He wants players to understand what the staff expects from them, how they fit within the program and where they can continue improving.
“I want players to feel like they can come to me and communicate openly,” Catanzarite said. “I want to build genuine relationships with them.”
Defenders Prepare for Preseason
Catanzarite believes Dordt can offer prospective student-athletes a combination of faith-based education, personal investment from the coaching staff and high-level athletic facilities.
The Defenders have grass fields, indoor and outdoor turf, and training and recovery spaces that Catanzarite says can provide a professional environment for player development.
He has spent recent weeks getting to know Dordt’s players remotely but will soon have his first opportunity to work with the team in person.
“Our first practice is August 5,” Catanzarite said. “Coach Lee, our graduate assistant Stevie and I will be picking players up the day before. I’m excited to finally meet the guys in person. We think this can be a really special season.”
