STATEN ISLAND, NY – The College of Staten Island is proud to announce that women's soccer head coach Alex Mendolia will be transitioning into an exciting new opportunity as the Senior Performance Analyst for the U.S. Soccer and the Women's National Team programs, effective Monday , Sept. 29. His final day with the Dolphin family will be Saturday, Sept. 20.

Mendolia, who has served as head of the program for the past three seasons, and his newest role will be part of the U.S. Soccer's Technical Staff. In this position, he will collaborate with the analytical team to evaluate player and opponent performances in support of the program's overall development strategy. His responsibilities will also include scouting and assessing future talent at both domestic and international camps in preparation for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland and the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

"The Women's Soccer program at CSI has been more than just a team to coach but a family, a community, and a place where passion met purpose," Mendolia stated. "As I step away from the sidelines, I carry with me the pride of every challenge we faced and every goal we achieved together building the foundation of a future successful program. Thank you to the players, alumni and department staff for the unforgettable journey!"

With his departure, Assistant Coach Joe Odumewu will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2025 season.

Mendolia stated, "as I step away, I couldn't be more confident in the future of the Women's Soccer Program at CSI. With the promotion of Coach Joseph [Odumewu], the program will be in great hands. He has been an essential part of our successes and growth over the last few years, and I can't thank him enough. I'm proud to see Joe step into the head coach role and I know the program will thrive under his leadership."

Odumewu, who joined the Dolphins staff in 2023, brings extensive coaching experience at the high school, club, and collegiate levels. His career began at Middlesex High School before stops at the College of Saint Elizabeth, Cedar Stars Academy, and Ramapo College. He later coached with STA Soccer Club before joining CSI alongside Head Coach Alex Mendolia in 2023. 

CSI Athletics Athletic Director, Matthew Scally, praised Mendolia for his contributions over the past few years, stating, "we greatly appreciate everything Alex has done for CSI Athletics and our women's soccer program. We wish him continued success in this next chapter with the U.S. Soccer Federation."