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Summary
Michael Kirmse has been coaching youth soccer for over 20 years, through camps, clinics, and volunteer programs.
Coaching Experience
2004 – Present: Syracuse Development Academy (Empire Revolution-Syracuse, Syracuse FC)
2011 – 2016: Empire Revolution Development Academy
2001 - 2003: Rochester Jr. Rhinos (Empire Revolution-Rochester)
Licensing
United States Soccer Federation (USSF) “A” License
Playing Experience
Professional
During his years as a professional soccer player, Kirmse played two years in Germany, seven seasons in the A-League for the Rochester Raging Rhinos, Syracuse Salty Dogs, and Virginia Beach Mariners, as well as two seasons with the Buffalo Blizzard of the NPSL indoor league, predominantly as a defender. Kirmse, always a fan favorite and known for his “flip throw-in”, has played over 250 professional matches and has played just about every position in the pros, earning nicknames at times such as “Mr. Versatility” and “Super Sub”.
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One of his biggest moments professionally came in the 1999 U.S. Open Cup where he helped the underdog Rochester Raging Rhinos become, currently, the only A-League team during the Major League Soccer (MLS), 1st division, era to win the championship by beating four MLS teams. Kirmse assisted on the deciding goal in Rochester’s 1-0 victory over the defending MLS Champion Chicago Fire in the second round of cup play. He then lifted the Rhinos to a win in its quarterfinals match with his sudden death overtime game-winning goal in the 110th minute, giving Rochester a 2-1 win over the Dallas Burn of the MLS’s, advancing the Rhinos to the Open Cup semifinals. Rochester, with Kirmse playing a key role, went on to defeat the Columbus Crew 3-2 in the semifinals and the Colorado Rapids 2-0 in the finals, with Kirmse assisting on the second goal in the championship match. Along with the Rhinos Open Cup championship, Kirmse was part of three A-League championship teams while playing in Rochester (’98, ’00, ’01).
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In 2016, Kirmse was individually inducted as a player to the Rochester Rhinos Hall of Fame.
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In 2013, Kirmse along with the ’99 Open Cup Championship team was inducted into the Rochester Rhinos Hall of Fame.
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College
Clarkson University Men’s Soccer enjoyed outstanding success with Kirmse in the lineup, posting a 45-22-4 overall record from 1990-93, advancing to postseason play every fall. In his senior year, Kirmse tallied 3 goals, during the NCAA Division III postseason playoffs, to earn a spot in the Final Four.
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Captain for two years, Kirmse earned numerous all-star honors while at Clarkson, including being named an All-American and 1993 EAA Player of the Year. He was named a league all-star in each of his four seasons and selected to the prestigious All-NYS Team three times. Kirmse completed his Clarkson career tied for second on the Golden Knights’ all-time scoring chart at 97 points with 35 goals and a school record 27 assists in 69 games. He left Clarkson holding school records for goals (16), assists (11), and points (42) in a season as well as assists in a game (3) and career (27).
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In 2005, Kirmse was inducted into the Clarkson Golden Knights Athletic Hall of Fame
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Kirmse received a Bachelor of Science (BS) Engineering & Management from Clarkson University, and a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) with a Marketing concentration from Rochester Institute of Technology.
Testimonials
“When Jake (now plays professionally for the MISL Rochester Lancers) came to the club we were looking for just what we are getting; The best coaching, the best training, surrounded by the best players, and competing against the best competition. Thank you" – The Schindler’s
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“Thank you both for your help (on finding a new club in NC)! Tommy (Tanner and Mike Paolini), you run a great club and Mike (Kirmse) is simply amazing. (My son) and I from the beginning were in awe of him and his continued support after not leaving his team but leaving the club speaks volumes on the dedication your coaches have to their players. We already miss you all (after moving to NC), especially Cesco (Riverso) and wish you both the best. (He) was sorry to go, he loved the team and club. So far he has worn his jersey and practice uniform everyday and has boasted to all the new neighborhood kids.
Always" – Kathleen
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“I would like to thank you for all that you have done with my son over the past two years – he has really enjoyed playing for you. To go from the boy (needing direction) in goal – to a fairly confident and disciplined player I applaud you. If there is any chance of you being the boys coach again I would love it and so would (my son.)”
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“Thank you for coaching me for the past few years. I have learned a lot and have improved as a player so much under you. Because of you I have the privilege to play with the academy team. I don’t think I could’ve made it without you.”
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“Just wanted to thank you for a great season. Not only do the parents appreciate all the work you have done developing the boys but it is great that the boys love their coaches. Thanks again!“