Pedro Oliveira
Head Coach Bunnell High School Girls Varsity Soccer
Coach at Inter Connecticut FC
“Heritage encompasses many things. It’s about ethnic roots, of course, but it also includes cultural teachings and personal experiences. For me it has shaped my values, my personality, my goals and much more. I believe that one’s heritage is to be treasured.”
Your coaching experience, who you are, and what you do
I’m the Bunnell High School (Stratford, Connecticut) Girls Soccer Head Coach and also coaching at Inter CTFC. My coaching career began 18 years ago when I had my first coaching experience with my son’s AYSO team and since then, have coached for town programs, premier club’s and now over 10 years of HS coaching experience ( JV head coach and Varsity assistant) with boys and girls programs.
Why is it important for you to be a coach?
Passion for the beautiful game of soccer and through my coaching to have my players embrace the game with love and dedication.
Why do you think coaching education is important?
To be more knowledgeable, capable, and always be in line with the evolution of soccer in all its levels and aspects, both on and off the field of play.
What does heritage mean to you?
Heritage encompasses many things. It’s about ethnic roots, of course, but it also includes cultural teachings and personal experiences. For me, it has shaped my values, my personality, my goals, and much more. I believe that one’s heritage is to be treasured.
How important is being a member of United Soccer Coaches? What is one benefit you have taken advantage of?
The networking and education aspects are tremendous and in a wide range of possibilities. Most beneficial for me is the continued access to education.
Why do I feel that bringing resources to Latino communities is important?
To have a structure capable of taking education to more coaches and qualifying them to achieve their objectives.
How important to give all players access to the best leagues in this country?
It should be of high importance across all soccer organizations in the USA.
What advice would you give any young Latina or Latino coach?
Be resilient and dedicated, and you MUST believe in what you are doing.
How do you teach the importance of academics to your players?
Telling them that academics is a priority over soccer, and they won’t be eligible to play on the team if grades aren’t good enough throughout the season.
Who would you choose if you could have coffee with any soccer figure?
Pelé and Marta
If you could coach anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Brazil and Spain
What are some of the activities you enjoy to de-stress, that are not soccer-related?
Always a good movie and encouraging music.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Latino Coaches Community will spotlight coaches in their community all month long.