Former Valley Forge Military Academy and Villanova University football player Robert Rosato has been named head football coach at VFMA.

Known as “Coach” or just “Bobby,” Coach Rosato played for VFMA from 1982-1983.  

“It is an honor for me to hold the position as head coach,” said Coach Rosato. “I am grateful to help build these young men into the leaders our society needs right now.”

A graduate of Conestoga High School, Coach Robert Rosato attended VFMA as a post-graduate. He played football there and was captain of the team.

He was also a Gold Star cadet for academic excellence.

He later played football while attending Villanova University, where he was selected for the 12th Man Award given for spirit and enthusiasm. 

Upon graduating from Villanova, Rosato was commissioned as a Marine Officer and was stationed in Camp Pendleton in California, where he was part of the 13th MEUSOC (Marine Expeditionary Unit Special Operations Capable).

 Promoted to Captain, his military awards include the Navy Commendation medal, Navy Achievement medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Naval Unit Citation, National Defense medal, Desert Storm/ Shield medal, Humanitarian Service Medal x2, Sea Service deployment ribbon, Coast Guard Special Operations Ribbon, and the Kuwaiti Liberation medal.

 After completing his service, Coach Rosato earned his Series 7 license and worked in the financial sector.

Having never set aside his passion for education, he earned a certificate in history, a Master’s degree in multicultural education and then taught and coached football for 20 years in public schools before returning to VFMA in 2019.

His teaching awards include Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award and Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award from the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.

“I love VFMA. Like many graduates, I recognize that VFMA instilled in me the cornerstones needed to be successful in life,” Coach Rosato said. “Having the opportunity to return here and help shape the next generation in the classroom and on the gridiron is my way of honoring the school which has done so much for me.”

A VFMA education is built on Five Cornerstones: Academic Excellence, Character Development, Personal Motivation, Physical Development, and Leadership.

Coach Rosato teaches US History, US Government, and Economics. In addition, he leads an annual international experiential learning trip to Costa Rica.

Before being named as head football coach, he was the team’s defensive coordinator; he also coaches basketball and long-distance track. 

“The game of football has not changed much in 40 years, nor has the caliber of individuals committed to the sport,” said Coach Rosato. “It requires loyalty, punctuality, and a willingness to sacrifice to be part of the team – all characteristics VFMA Cadets bring every day.”

There are seven games on VFMA’s fall football schedule, with playoffs to follow if the season is a winning one.

“Our team is raw but energetic and enthusiastic. We are committed to giving all we have in the classroom, the gridiron, and the community,” said Coach Rosato.

 Established in 1928, Valley Forge Military Academy and College is an international leadership institution comprising middle school, high school, and junior college.

VFMA is a private independent boarding school for boys in grades 7-12. VFMC has been designated by the governor of Pennsylvania and the legislature as the Military College of Pennsylvania.