Hall of Fame
Rob Valentino is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in school history, leaving a longstanding legacy behind on the Hilltop. Breaking onto the scene in a big way, Valentino was a First Team All-WCC and College Soccer News All-American selection in his freshman year in 2004. One year later, he was named WCC Defender of the Year, and then followed by being named WCC Player of the Year in 2006. As a team, San Francisco was crowned WCC champions in back-to-back seasons in 2004 and 2005. During his junior season (2006), Valentino guided the Dons to a top 10 national ranking. He finished his career as a three-time All-WCC First Team selection. Valentino was listed on the 2007 Hermann Trophy watch list, which is awarded annually to the top male and female college soccer players.
Moving into the professional ranks, he was drafted 13th overall by the New England Revolution in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He would suit up for the Revolution in 2008 and 2009, before playing two years with the Colorado Rapids in 2009 and 2010. Additionally, he competed for the United States Men's National Team U23s, representing the USA in international friendlies in the Toulon International Tournament in Japan (2007 + 2008). Following his time in the MLS, Valentino was a captain for Orlando City of the United Soccer League (USL) from 2011 to 2014. During his time in Orlando, City was named USL Pro Regular Season Champions in three of his four years (2011, 2012, 2014), while also being crowned USL PRO League Champions twice (2011, 2013). Similar to his college days, Valentino was named USL Defender of the Year in 2011, while also earning a spot on the USL All-League Team in three straight years (2011-2013). He also earned the Orlando City Community Award in 2015. Valentino wrapped up his playing career with Arizona United in 2015. Transitioning into coaching, he went on to be head coach of USL Orlando City B from 2015-17, as well as the head coach of Orlando City Academy U19. Valentino recently returned to the MLS, climbing the ranks in the Atlanta United organization, which has included being named interim head coach twice. In 2024, Valentino guided Atlanta over Inter Miami, who featured Lionel Messi, to reach the Eastern Conference Semifinal. He also currently serves as the head coach for the USA National Team U19/20.
