The news that Tony DiCicco has decided to quit as U.S. women’s national team coach isn’t entirely unexpected. Talks with U.S. Soccer dragged on as DiCicco weighed the pros and cons of continuing. DiCicco said as recently as last month in Soccer America that his return was a 50-50 proposition. He certainly goes out on top after leading the United States to the Women’s World Cup title summer, three years after he guided the U.S. women to the gold medal at the first Olympic women’s soccer tournament. DiCicco had big shoes to fill when he replaced Anson Dorrance, architect of the women’s game in this country, five years ago. DiCicco had worked in the background, as a goalkeeping specialist, when he was suddenly thrust into position of leading the United States in its defense of its world title at the Women’s World Cup ’95. The Americans finished a disappointing third in Sweden but recovered to win back-to-back titles on home soil. DiCicco did not have Dorrance’s dominating personality, so he never got much credit for the U.S. success. It’s too bad. DiCicco always showed a lot of grace in leading the American women to two world titles. The irony, of course, is that DiCicco’s successor will now have even bigger shoes to fill. First, there’s the 2000 Olympics, where the United States will by no means be assured of getting past rising China a third time. The pressure will be enormous. If a pro league is to get off the ground in 2001, women soccer’s must remain in the forefront. As the disappointing crowds on their indoor “Victory Tour” attest, interest can be fleeting. Then, there’s the long-term issue: the rebuilding of the national team. The top stars may all be gone after 2000. DiCicco’s successor will face major challenges. FANS, LET’S HEAR YOUR VIEW Click here to log onto (Soccer) American Graffiti. Then click on the topic titled “YOUR VIEW: Big shoes to fill” and respond to PAUL KENNEDY in 200 words or less. Best responses may be reprinted in Soccer America Magazine. If YOUR View is selected, we’ll send you a cool T-shirt and pin… Because You’re FANATIC.