ROCKFORD, IL — Tim Romanello, who served as the men's soccer head coach and Assistant Athletic Director at Rock Valley College (RVC), has officially stepped down from his position to accept a new leadership role and coaching position.

During his multi-year tenure in Rockford, Romanello transformed the Golden Eagles into a competitive powerhouse. Appointed in June 2019, he led the program to unprecedented heights. This success included multiple Region 4 Championship game appearances, a historic, first-ever bid to the NJCAA Division 3 National Tournament in Herkimer, New York in 2021, and a subsequent bid to the NJCAA Division 2 National Tournament in Tucson, Arizona in 2023.

"We are incredibly grateful for everything Tim Romanello has poured into our Men's Soccer program and the entire Rock Valley community during his time here." Said Athletic Director Darin Monroe. "Tim didn't just build a highly competitive program on the national stage; he fostered a culture of accountability and character that truly elevated our student-athletes. We wish Tim and his family nothing but the absolute best in their next chapter."

A Historic Run on the Pitch
Romanello transformed the soccer program's expectations by achieving unprecedented consistency, leaving RVC with a commanding 66-36-16 overall record. He shattered the program's ceiling by engineering its first-ever four consecutive 10-win seasons and anchoring a dominant stretch that included the programs milestone 100th overall victory.

Excellence Beyond the Field
Romanello's impact at Rock Valley College Athletics extends far beyond coaching. Elevated to Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance in July 2023, he enforced strict academic and regulatory standards. Under his guidance, student-athletes shattered GPA records—including a 3.22 department cumulative GPA in Spring 2026—while earning numerous Academic All-American honors.

"Rock Valley has meant a great deal to me. It has been my home, my purpose, and my passion. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues and to coach remarkable young men who represented this college with pride." Said Romanello. "Thank you for your trust, support, and belief in me, and thank you to everyone at Rock Valley who made this chapter meaningful. This experience has shaped me profoundly, and I will always be proud of what we accomplished together and grateful for the relationships built along the way."

The Search for a Successor
A comprehensive national search for his replacement is officially underway. The incoming coaching staff will look to build upon the solid, national-caliber foundation Romanello leaves behind.