Bio

Michael LaFrancesca enters his third season as Head Women’s Soccer Coach at Framingham State University in 2026, bringing more than two decades of coaching experience and a proven track record of success at the high school, club, and collegiate levels. He joined the Rams in February 2024 after serving as an advisor to the women’s soccer program at Lasell University.

In 2025, LaFrancesca guided the Rams to a 6-9-5 overall record and a 3-3-2 mark in MASCAC play, qualifying for the conference tournament and advancing to the MASCAC Semifinals. Framingham State won its quarterfinal at Salem State before falling 1-0 at Worcester State in the semifinal round. Conference victories over Fitchburg State, Salem State, and Anna Maria highlighted a season of clear progress for a program on the rise.

In his first season at the helm in 2024, LaFrancesca began rebuilding the program, posting a 4-15-1 record (2-4-1 MASCAC) and reaching the MASCAC Quarterfinals. He established a new culture built on discipline, grit, and resilience, as the Rams made significant strides in competitiveness and organization that laid the foundation for the program’s growth.

Before taking over at Framingham State, LaFrancesca spent 15 years as the varsity head coach at Medfield High School, where he built one of the most successful programs in Massachusetts. Under his leadership, the Warriors captured two state championships, won five Tri-Valley League titles, recorded four undefeated seasons, and qualified for the state tournament every year of his tenure. His coaching excellence was recognized with three Tri-Valley League Coach of the Year awards, and in 2010 he was named Boston Globe Coach of the Year.

Prior to his success at Medfield, LaFrancesca served as head coach at Dana Hall School for five years, where he played a key role in recruiting, player development, and tactical planning. His additional coaching experience includes roles with Bay State Metro, Boston Blast, and Watertown Public Schools, reflecting his lifelong commitment to developing players across all levels of the game.

LaFrancesca holds multiple coaching certifications, including high school, goalkeeping, league, regional, and national licenses. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Finance and Business Administration from Suffolk University and his Master of Public Administration from Anna Maria College.

At Framingham State, LaFrancesca’s vision is clear: to develop complete student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom, while competing at the highest level within the MASCAC.