Army West Point Athletics
Tiago Capela Named as Assistant Coach of Men's Soccer
August 06, 2026 | Men's Soccer
WEST POINT, N.Y. – Army West Point Men's Soccer head coach Brian Plotkin has announced the hiring of Tiago Capela as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Capela joins head coach Brian Plotkin, associate head coach Jonathan Delano and assistant coach Chris Koch in leading the Black Knights this season.
"I'm incredibly honored to join Army West Point and work alongside Coach Plotkin and this outstanding staff. The opportunity to develop young men of character while competing at the highest level is something I'm truly passionate about, said Capela."
"We are excited to add Tiago to the coaching staff. He has proven himself to be a strong coach and recruiter who values relationships and culture. He has hit the ground running and is going to be a great addition to Army Soccer, said head coach Brian Plotkin."
Prior to arriving at West Point, Capela coached at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, N.J. from Aug. 2022 through July 2026 as lead assistant and recruiting coordinator. During his tenure, FDU posted an impressive 41-20-16 record.
He also served as head coach of Cedar Stars Academy in New Jersey and director of goalkeeping at Modern Goalkeeper Training Systems LLC from 2023-24.
Capela's coaching success is highlighted by teaching and developing players to later earn numerous awards and accolades. Several players he coached went on to be drafted in the Major League Soccer Draft and sign professional contracts. One player was drafted No. 9 overall in the 2023 MLS Draft, and another signed a professional contract with New York City Football Club in 2025.
Under his guidance, athletes have secured major awards, such as NEC Goalkeeper of the Year and NEC Defender of the Year in 2022, NEC Player of the Year in 2025 and NEC Coaching Staff of the Year honors. During his coaching tenure at Fairleigh Dickinson, players went on to win the NEC regular-season championships and NEC tournament championships, while 24 student-athletes earned All-Conference NEC honors. The FDU Knights ranked third nationally in wins and ninth in goals scored in 2025 during Capela's time there.
Capela is a graduate of Southeastern University where he earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Capela also went on to pursue a master's degree in sport management from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
"I'm excited to get to work, represent this incredible institution, and experience everything that comes with being part of Army Soccer. BEAT NAVY!"
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