Rooted in hard work, leadership, and an unshakable love for the game, Nicole Pacapelli—West Haven High School Class of 2010—has spent her life chasing excellence and giving her all, both on and off the field. From dominating as a multi-sport athlete at WHHS to leading at the NCAA Division I level, her journey reflects what’s possible when you go all in and never look back.
Thinking back to the teachers and coaches who helped shape her early years, Nicole credits a long list of influential figures who guided her throughout her time in West Haven. “Joe Morrell, who was my very first coach when I was five, played a huge role from the very beginning,” she said. “At the middle school, I was lucky to have strong mentors like Sherry Mitchell, Cindi Anastasio, DeAnna Pucillo, and my guidance counselor, Debbie Kachmar. Once I got to high school, I was surrounded by people who pushed and supported me—Betsy Bruneau, Dana Paredes, and Carol Franco were all instrumental in helping me grow.” Each of them, in their own way, made a lasting impact on Nicole’s development as both a student and a leader.
Now leading a Division I women’s soccer program, Nicole has made a career out of the sport she fell in love with as a kid. “I’m currently the Head Women’s Soccer Coach at Marist University,” she said. “The game has always been a huge part of my life—I’ve been playing since I was five years old. I played in college at the University of New Haven and knew I didn’t want to ever give it up.” While she once thought she’d be a classroom teacher, the pieces clicked into place. “Basically, I made it as a soccer teacher! Running my own program at the highest collegiate level is like being the CEO of my own business—and it’s an absolute dream.”
When offering advice to current WHHS students, Nicole is passionate about one thing above all else: effort. “Go all in,” she said. “Get involved and give 100% of yourself to everything you do—you won’t regret it.” Her words reflect the mindset of someone who found meaning in being fully committed, no matter the arena.
If she could go back and talk to her high school self, Nicole knows exactly what she’d say. “Stop worrying so much about what other people think. Don’t be so afraid to fail. You can do anything.” It’s the kind of advice that comes from experience—hard-earned and honest.
Nicole holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics and an MBA with a concentration in Sports Management and Collegiate Administration from the University of New Haven, graduating in 2014 and 2016. Her path may not have been the most traditional, but it’s one she carved with intention and heart. Along the way, one quote has stuck with her: “The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves,” she said. Another? “You don’t win silver—you lose gold.” That edge, that competitive fire, still burns bright.
From the soccer fields of West Haven to the sidelines of Division I, Nicole Pacapelli’s story is proof that with the right mindset and relentless belief in yourself, anything is possible. Her journey embodies the power of dedication, leadership, and embracing challenges head-on. As she continues to lead and inspire young athletes, Nicole’s legacy reminds us all that success is built not just on talent, but on passion, perseverance, and the courage to go all in.