Ex-Conn goalkeeper Marcucci just one step away from his ultimate dream: playing in MLS
Jul. 26—A typical work day for A.J. Marcucci certainly doesn't feel like work.
Marcucci is just doing what he loves, and that's playing professional soccer.
"I could be working a 9-to-5 but I'm here doing this — just play and have fun," Marcucci said.
A former Connecticut College star, Marcucci is pursuing his dream to play Major League Soccer.
Marcucci, 23, is basically one step away as a member of the New York Red Bulls II, a reserve team for the New York Red Bulls that competes in the MLS NEXT Pro league.
His career has been on a promising track since being selected in the third round of the 2021 MLS SuperDraft and signed by the Red Bulls II.
He ranks second in Red Bulls II club history in saves, games played in goal and minutes played in goal.
Just last month, Marcucci was rewarded for his fine play, signing a new two-year contract that runs through 2025 with an option for 2026 and 2027.
"It means a lot, honestly," said Marcucci after completing a team workout on a steamy hot Wednesday. "It means that, first and foremost, they have faith in me through my previous years that I've been here. And I really, really appreciate that trust that they have in me.
"For me, I get to fulfill my dream that I've had ever since I was a kid and keep going, and I don't have to worry about it for another two to four years. I'm really happy."
Through tireless hard work, fierce determination and dedication to his craft, Marcucci has excelled every step in his journey, starting from the youth levels growing up in West Chester, Pa.
Marcucci achieved All-America status at Conn College and helped elevate the program to new heights. The Camels qualified for the NCAA Division III tournament three straight years for the first time before COVID-19 prematurely ended his collegiate career. He graduated with a school record 25 clean sheets and a stingy 0.50 goals against average.
During the COVID break, Marcucci worked out in the Philadelphia area with other goalies under Philadelphia Union director of goalkeeping Phil Wheddon.
Those training sessions helped prepare him for the next step. He became the first Camel drafted in the MLS and first Division III player taken since 2016.
"That's when I started to really come out of my shell," Marcucci said. "I was awful for the first two weeks. Awful. So far behind. But as you keep playing with the same people every day that are better than you, that pushes you to the limit, it really increases you being a pro each and every day."
He's continued to have success on the pro level.
As of Wednesday, the 6-foot-3, 190-pound Marcucci ranked second in MLS NEXT in shutouts (six). He owns a sparkling 1.06 goals against average while making a team-best 16 starts.
In a recent 2-0 win over FC Cincinnati, Marcucci made several key saves, including a diving one-handed deflection to preserve the shutout. The Red Bulls II are tied for fourth in the Eastern Conference.
"When you get to this point, everyone earns what you get," he said. "You're really not given anything. I've worked tooth and nail to be where I'm at and it shows through college and even here. I try each and every day to just give the best effort and attitude that I can.
"Luckily, I've reaped the rewards of my mentality and my confidence in myself."
While Marcucci has put up some impressive numbers, he's still learning. He's made some significant strides this season, especially in his shot-stopping capabilities.
Soccer is his life right now.
The preseason begins in January and the season can end as late as November.
His typical training day at the Red Bulls Training Facility in Whippany, N.J., starts around 8:30 a.m. with breakfast, pre-practice preparation and sometimes a video session before a 10 a.m. team workout.
The intensity and length of the workout will depend on when the next game is scheduled.
Marcucci, who lives in East Hanover, N.J., usually heads home around mid-afternoon and has the rest of the day free.
"Sleep is probably the most important thing," he said.
Chances are Marcucci will be in the starting lineup come game day. He's started all but three games so far this season.
"I'm playing as many games as possible, that's what they want me to do to prepare me," Marcucci said.
Of course, his ultimate goal is to earn a promotion to the New York Red Bulls.
Marcucci isn't in a rush but it is definitely on his mind.
"I think everyone sets a goal for when they want to start playing, so I have a goal," Marcucci said. "But, at the same time, a goalkeeper is like a quarterback where you can play until you're 36 or 37. (Italian goalie Gianluigi) Buffon was playing until he was 40.
"So it's not like how long, it's when. Hopefully, soon for me. Every day I just want to try to get better and learn. ... And when my shot comes, use everything that they've taught me and just be the best I can be when I get my chance."
