Coach G
In January 2023, Coach G made a bold decision to step away from his role as Technical Director at an industry-leading residency program and embark on a new journey. Betting on his passion and vision, he founded Shape the Game Academy with a clear mission: to develop young players in a way that not only maximizes their potential but also remains true to the heart and essence of the sport. Drawing from years of coaching experience, Coach G brings a hands-on, personalized approach to training, focusing on programs that sharpen technical skills, improve speed and agility, and cultivate mental toughness.
Coach G is dedicated to fostering a positive, growth-oriented environment where players can thrive. His philosophy goes beyond just physical development—he’s committed to helping players build confidence, resilience, and a deep understanding of the game. His goal is to shape not only future athletes but well-rounded individuals, empowering every player to reach their full potential both on and off the field. At Shape the Game Academy, the focus is on developing the complete player, driven by a passion for the game and a commitment to excellence.
Coach Eli
Coach Eli, born in Oceanside, California, and now residing in Allen, Texas, brings a rich background of competitive soccer experience to Shape the Game Academy. He played club soccer for five years with Division 1 and 2 teams, competing in multiple national tournaments. This firsthand experience in high-level competition has given Eli a deep understanding of the game, along with the ups and downs that young players often face. His passions for soccer, cars, and video games add a unique flavor to his approach as a coach, making him relatable and approachable to the players he works with.
Driven by a desire to help players grow both on and off the field, Coach Eli is dedicated to building a coaching relationship that emphasizes long-term development. He focuses on helping players improve their technical skills while also nurturing their mental strength and love for the game. Eli’s personal experiences as a youth player fuel his commitment to creating a positive and supportive environment where players can thrive, learning to overcome challenges and embrace the process of growth.
Coach Carlos
Coach Carlos, born in Mexico City and raised in Richardson, Texas, has a deep-rooted passion for soccer that has been a part of his life since childhood. His early playing career includes time with the Dallas Texans 82 and participation in the ODP program at both State and Regional levels. In 2004, Carlos was selected to train with UNAM Pumas in Mexico City under the legendary coach Hugo Sanchez and goalkeeper coach Olaf Heredia, a former backup goalkeeper for the Mexican National Team during the 1986 World Cup. This experience gave him invaluable insights into the game at the highest level, particularly in the goalkeeper position.
After stepping away from soccer, Carlos transitioned into a successful career as an entrepreneur, owning and selling various businesses. However, with his children discovering their own love for soccer, Carlos found himself drawn back to the sport with a renewed sense of purpose. At Shape the Game Academy, Carlos specializes in goalkeeping and is known for his expertise in teaching the proper techniques for striking and passing the ball. His coaching approach focuses on precision and form, helping players develop the skills they need to excel.