Tony Tagliafierro lives and breathes Laurentian Voyageurs' men's soccer - just not at the overwhelming expense of family.

A proud alumnus of the L.U. soccer family, having played for his coaching predecessor (Carlo Castrechino) for five year, Tagliafierro announced recently his decision to step away from the team he has led for the past five years.

"This decision wasn't easy, but it's what's best for the program, the players, and most importantly, my family," noted the graduate of St Charles College who was hired on initially into a part-time head coaching position but transitioned to the full-time offering in August of 2024.

While a few years his elder, Laurentian Athletic Director Peter Hellstrom can certainly put himself in the shoes of Tagliafierro and the challenges of juggling sports and the demands of a young family.

"Tony has been an incredible member of the Voyageurs' family and I think he has done a fantastic job with the program - which is why we were excited to bring him on in a full-time role just 15 months ago," said Hellstrom.

"But I also know that there are only so many hours in a day and so many days in a week and for Tony to step up and say: if I give everything to the program that it needs and deserves, it's at the expense of quality time with my family - I absolutely respect that."

"It's going to be weird not seeing Tony pacing the technical area pitch side next September, but he leaves the program with a strong foundation of young men. That he is staying with us until he can pass the baton speaks to his dedication to the program."

The search for a replacement is already underway, though it will be difficult to mirror the love of the Blue & Gold that permeates within Tagliafierro.

"This program has been a huge part of my life (for over 20 years) and the friendships and relationships I have made will always hold a special place in my heart," he summarized.