Tell us about your athletic career.

After beginning my career in Brazil playing for SC Corinthians Paulista for more then 10 years, I moved to Sweden, Poland and Costa Rica before signing with the LA Galaxy.

Why did you decide to become a private coach?

I started by coaching my son. When I came here, I wanted to know if there were any programs for kids at school, and they said no. I trained kids at a soccer camp for a couple of months at the school. I like to work with kids and see their progress.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Again, I love seeing kids progress. I want to make them better to allow them to do what they want.

What can a client expect from private lessons with you?

It depends on their age. For kids ages six to 11, coordination is extremely important. They must have it when they are young, or it will be harder to get when they are older. Coordination and building a foundation are the most important. For kids ages 11-12, the most important thing is preparing for a higher level. This includes exercises, passing, and taking touches on the ball.

What is your coaching style or philosophy?

I never had only one style. You learn a lot of different things when you meet coaches. I take a little from each. You just have to work the right way and believe in what you are doing.

What is your favorite moment in your athletic career?

There have been a lot of great moments over the last 3 years. I’ve won championships in Costa Rica and with the Galaxy. We’re in the playoffs now too, so it’s great.

Do you have any success stories from coaching an athlete?

I’m working with 3 kids now who are making progress. You start teaching them exercises now and eventually it becomes natural and they don’t have to think about it. I also taught 40 kids in soccer camps, and they made a lot of progress.

What other sports or activities do you enjoy playing or practicing?

I pretty much focus only on soccer. I like to watch basketball, but growing up, soccer was always number one, so I focus mainly on soccer.

What team do you root for most enthusiastically? (any sport)

The Lakers.

What is your favorite sports related movie?

Facing the Giants.

What’s your mantra or favorite saying (in the context of sport and/ or life)?

I just believe in God and believe that by doing the right things, good things will come back to you.