When you look through the history of Section 1 softball, Albertus Magnus has been all over it. The program is two years removed from being a Class B state semifinalist. When you think of the Falcons softball program, you think of former coach Carl D’Alba.
When D’Alba announced his retirement at the end of last season, whomever was going to step into his shoes had some big ones to fill. In steps former Pelham coach Anthony Falciglia. Hear how he started his career in baseball and transitioned into softball.
Growing up, what did you love about baseball?
Falciglia: Baseball was always part of my life. My dad coached my older brother, so I grew up at the field. I spent countless hours around older players, watching and learning. I gravitated toward the catchersearly on and was inspired by watching Thurman Munson with the Yankees. I didn’t just want to play — I wanted to be a big league catcher.
What did you love about catching?
Falciglia: Catching is a leadership position. You’re involved in every pitch, every play. I loved the responsibility, the toughness, and the grind. I embraced blocking balls, managing pitchers, andbeing the extension of the coaching staff on the field.
What do you remember about your time in the minor leagues?
Falciglia: The relationships stand out the most. As a kid from the Bronx, teammates from around the country gravitated toward my personality. But it was also the grind — long bus rides, playing every day, learning resilience and consistency. Those years shaped my toughness and discipline.
When did coaching become a possibility?
Falciglia: During my final year in the Cardinals organization, conversations about coaching began. I wasn’t ready to stop playing, but the seed was planted. After my career ended, I coached at Felician College and realized how much I enjoyed teaching and developing players.
What did you learn that you bring into coaching?
Falciglia: Preparation and professionalism. In pro ball, you’re treated like a professional and expected to act like one. I carry that into coaching — practice with intensity so the game slows down.
How does being a catcher shape you as a coach?
Falciglia: Catchers see everything. You manage the game, control tempo, read hitters, and communicateconstantly. That awareness and strategic thinking carry directly into my coaching philosophy.
Why did you want to coach?
Falciglia: To give back. My father, who passed away in 2014, was a tremendous influence. He balanced competitiveness with humor and heart. Coaching is my way of continuing that legacy while helping players grow.
How long have you been coaching?
Falciglia: I began coaching in 1995 while still playing professionally, helping at St. Raymond’s High School in the Bronx. Since then, I’ve coached at the high school, college, travel, and instructional levels for nearly three decades.
How does player development influence you?
Falciglia: I run pro-style practices regardless of age. High standards build habits. Development is about mechanics, mindset, and preparation.
How did softball come into your life?
Falciglia: Through my daughter, Deanna, in 1997. I immersed myself in learning the sport and the recruiting process. It quickly became a passion.
What do you like about softball?
Falciglia: It’s fast, strategic, and intense. The short game matters. Situational play matters. I love teaching young women the nuances of the sport and helping them grow.
When did coaching softball take shape?
Falciglia: Around 2007, which eventually led to founding Diamond Dolls Fastpitch (2009–2020). My focus became helping athletes reach the collegiate level.
Describe your coaching style.
Falciglia: Relationship-based with strong accountability. I understand failure, but I expect effort, professionalism, and preparation. We hustle. We’re early. We compete.
What do you know about Section 1 softball?
Falciglia: It’s competitive and disciplined. Depth, pitching, and short-game execution are critical. Preparation is everything.
Have you coached in Section 1 before?
Falciglia: Yes, at Pelham High School during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, gaining firsthand Section 1 experience.
What did you know about Albertus Magnus before taking the job?
Falciglia: A respected program with a long-standing tradition of winning and strong culture.
What do you hope to bring to the program?
Falciglia: Continuity, energy, professionalism, and sustained culture. Protect what’s been built and elevate it.
Expectations this season?
Falciglia: Compete at a high level with disciplined defense and creative offense. The standard remains high.
Twitter: @LoHud_Debbie; @LoHudSoftball
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Albertus Magnus softball coach Anthony Falciglia says standard is high
Reporting by Debbie Schechter, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
