Testimonials
See what players and parents have to say about Coach Vinny and the LSA curriculum.
“Avery really needed you and your experience after coming from the onslaught of poor coaching experiences she came from at (previous club) . I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all you have done for her confidence, skills, and love of the game.”
"Mom....I always knew that Coach Vinny was an awesome coach, knows the sport inside and out and knows what he is doing etc., but the fact that he knows how to work with teenagers and knows how to relate to us and get to our brains is what I noticed is different and special. It's like he knows exactly what we need mentally to teach us and how to talk to us and communicate, not just the soccer skills."
- Bella P. KCSA 02G
“Why is Coach Vinny moving to the Big Island? For a girlfriend? I hate girlfriends! Why does she like him? He has a big nose anyways!”
“I’ve known Coach Vinny since I was 11yrs old. For as long as I can remember, he’s been giving me more and more puzzle pieces that when put all together, will reveal a grand picture that I like to call my life as a soccer player and person. He’s helped me see soccer as more than just game, but as a system of shapes, patterns, and movements. He’s opened my eyes to the fluidity and beauty of the sport, which has only made me love and appreciate it even more. Vinny has supported all of my dreams and goals as a soccer player and has put a lot of time and effort into molding and developing me to become that player. He’s been a phenomenal mentor, coach, and overall friend to me. I cherish and hold dear every training session, what felt like a 2 hour talk, and random biology lesson he’s ever given me.”
“Vinny La Porta came into my life when I was 13 years old. Since then, he has been a mentor of mine for life and I couldn’t thank him enough for what he did for me and the culture of Big Island Soccer. He ultimately changed football on the islands for the greater good; giving hundreds of kids a roadmap of what is necessary to essentially “make it off the rock” , if that is what they intended to do. He introduced foreign concepts like flow, tempo, and gave intricate curriculum so that a player could flourish in any environment no matter the atmosphere/ playing style. As a current player in Major League Soccer, I still apply the concepts and technical drills that Vinny introduced to me at a young age.”
“Both Ella and Clayton had a fantastic time at the camp. You have a special knack for coaching and both my wife and I appreciate you working with our children.
I noticed especially in Clayton that as we were watching the Germany - Brazil game that we was pointing out spacing and telling me if “that guy would have made a run into that space” he could have had a shot on goal.
Hopefully he gets some opportunity to work with you some more before we head back to California.”
“Your energy is contagious. Love how you mixed it up and kept it light and fun while still teaching the kids.”
“He (my child) discussed how much he learned and how much he enjoyed the coaching. We also debated a couple tactical points, which is a good indication that his mind was stretched during the clinic. He also said he really enjoyed scrimmaging with the coaches and older kids in the final scrimmages because of the increased speed of play & overall quality of the game. ”
“Dear Coach V and staff,
The few 4 days Miles and Ella have had with you enjoying soccer and all the teaching has been a blessing. I already see a change in their perception of themselves as players and the game. Coach V, you have an incredible gift for coach(ing), leading and talking with kids. What a gift to the Big Island to have you here to spread your love of the sport and the life lessons that come from trying something hard. Not being afraid to fail. Enjoying someone else’s success. Sacrificing your glory for the whole (or team). Wow. That’s what we hope to do as parents and its so nice to have a gifted person such as yourself to show us and encourage our kids in the right way. Thanks!”
“I think it helped the team with our attack. I was able to start dribbling into space, making better runs and learned how to create more time for myself to make better decisions up top.”