Nominate an Athlete for the All State Game

As the anticipation builds for the 2025 All-State Game, one figure stands tall above the rest, embodying the spirit of the event and the aspirations of young athletes across the state: Coach Michael Reilly. With an illustrious coaching career that spans over two decades and a passion for soccer that knows no bounds, Coach Reilly is set to make a monumental impact as an official coach for this prestigious event. His journey encapsulates not just the essence of coaching, but also the transformative power that the game holds in shaping the lives of aspiring athletes.

A Journey Steeped in Dedication

Michael Reilly’s career is not just marked by accolades and wins; it is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the development of young athletes. As the founder of the NLSA Soccer Academy and a high school teacher since 2002, Coach Reilly is driven by a singular mission: to nurture talent, instill discipline, and teach life lessons through the beautiful game of soccer. His work spans all levels, coaching everyone from beginners to elite athletes, all while maintaining a deep connection to his community.

Reilly’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that character development is just as important as skill acquisition. Under his guidance, many of his players have gone on to excel at the collegiate level, receiving scholarships at prestigious institutions like Harvard, Penn State, and NC State. A coach who values both academic and athletic performance, he has ensured that his teams have consistently received the Scholar/Athlete Team Award since 2005, emphasizing his belief that education and athletics can and should coexist harmoniously.

The All-State Game: A Platform for Excellence

The All-State Game offers an extraordinary opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talent while representing their communities. It brings together elite players from various backgrounds, creating a melting pot of cultures, skills, and experiences. Coach Reilly’s role as an official coach in this high-stakes arena means he will play a pivotal part in assessing talent, fostering teamwork, and elevating athletes to realize their full potential. The game emphasizes not just participation but the values of hard work, sportsmanship, and collaboration—ideals that Reilly has championed throughout his career.

As the All-State Game promotes inclusivity and fairness (with a commitment to ensure no athlete is sidelined due to financial constraints), Coach Reilly’s alignment with these values only strengthens his resolve. He embodies the spirit of mentorship that this prestigious event seeks to foster, making him an ideal leader for the diverse group of players set to participate.

An Accomplished Legacy

Coach Reilly’s accolades tell only part of his story. With 288 wins, multiple championships, and numerous Coach of the Year awards, his track record speaks volumes about his ability to lead teams to success. However, it is his holistic approach to coaching that sets him apart. His extensive training, including over 40 certifications in various facets of soccer coaching, reflects his commitment to continual learning and adaptation in a constantly evolving sport.

Perhaps most impressively, his induction into the NYSSCOGS NYS High School Girls Soccer Hall of Fame is a testament not only to his success but also to the respect he has garnered within the coaching community. These achievements have paved the way for him to influence the next generation of talent through programs that cater to all levels of ability, including special needs soccer—a niche that highlights Reilly’s dedication to accessibility in sports.

The Heart of a Coach

At the core of Coach Reilly’s philosophy is the idea that sports serve as a vehicle for life lessons. He often emphasizes the importance of humility, resilience, and teamwork to his players. Coach Reilly often shares anecdotes from his own experiences, both as a player and coach, weaving valuable life skills into their training regimens.

On the field, he is known for his focused yet nurturing demeanor. His players thrive under his guidance, benefiting not only from skill development but also from his genuine care for their well-being. He encourages them to strive for greatness while fostering a desire to give back to their communities, a quality that resonates deeply with the ethos of the All-State Game.

Looking Forward

As Coach Michael Reilly prepares to take the helm at the 2025 All-State Game, excitement is palpable—not just among the athletes but also among the families, communities, and fellow coaches that have been inspired by his dedication to soccer and youth development. The opportunity to influence the next generation of players at a state-wide level is a challenge Coach Reilly is poised to embrace wholeheartedly.

This upcoming event will not only highlight his extraordinary skill as a coach but also serve as a pivotal moment in the lives of the athletes he leads. As they step onto the field representing their towns and counties, they will carry with them the lessons instilled by Coach Reilly—lessons that extend far beyond soccer. In Coach Reilly, these promising athletes are equipped with a mentor who is not only committed to fostering their athletic potential but also to shaping them into well-rounded individuals prepared to tackle life’s challenges head-on.

In the heart of Long Island, amid the excitement of the All-State Game, Coach Michael Reilly stands ready, a beacon of hope and inspiration for the talented youth athletes he is set to guide.