Gael Baraldi

I have extensive coaching experience working with youth athletes across multiple levels, having coached for Westchester Soccer Pros, Chappaqua Football Club, and Mount Pleasant. In addition, I own and operate my own soccer academy, IGC Academy, where I focus on developing young athletes’ technical skills, tactical understanding, and overall athletic performance. I work with a wide range of age groups, from beginners to advanced players, tailoring sessions to each athlete’s skill level and goals. My coaching approach emphasizes one-on-one training to ensure individualized attention, while also incorporating team-based exercises to promote communication, teamwork, and game awareness. I focus not only on improving physical abilities such as ball control, passing, shooting, speed, and agility, but also on developing mental toughness, discipline, and confidence. Ensuring a safe and professional training environment. My ultimate goal is to help athletes reach their full potential both on and off the field.

I competed at both the Division II and Division III collegiate levels for two years, gaining extensive experience in high-level competitive environments. In addition, I played at the USL level, where I faced professional-level competition and further developed my technical skills, tactical understanding, and mental toughness. Throughout my playing career, I honed my leadership abilities, serving as a mentor to teammates and helping guide younger players both on and off the field. I consistently demonstrated dedication, discipline, and resilience, which allowed me to perform at a high level under pressure. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the physical, technical, and mental aspects required to succeed in soccer. I earned recognition for my performance, including team honors and personal accolades, which reinforced my commitment to excellence. My background as a collegiate and semi-professional player allows me to bring real-world experience to the athletes I coach, helping them elevate their game through practical insights and professional guidance.

A typical session with me is designed to build athletes both physically and mentally. Mental preparation is our top priority, helping athletes develop focus, confidence, and the right mindset to perform under pressure. Each session begins with dynamic warm-ups and stretching to prevent injury and prepare the body for high-intensity activity. Core drills focus on ball control, passing, shooting, and position-specific skills, while speed and agility exercises enhance overall athletic performance. One-on-one challenges, and situational drills are incorporated to improve decision-making, reaction time, and tactical awareness. Sessions are tailored to the individual’s skill level, ensuring personalized attention while encouraging growth and improvement. I also provide ongoing feedback, track progress, and motivate athletes to push beyond their limits. Beyond skill development, I emphasize teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, aiming to help athletes grow into confident, resilient, and well-rounded players both on and off the field.