Salvatore Liguori III
Academy Coach
About Coach Sal:
From the moment he took his first steps, soccer has been more than just a game for Coach Sal—it's been his passion, his purpose, and his calling. With over 25 years of unwavering dedication to the sport, Coach Sal's journey from the grassroots of Hazlet United and Match Fit Academy to the elite ranks of the Red Bulls Development Academy has been nothing short of extraordinary.
A true embodiment of grit and determination, Coach Sal's soccer journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. At 18, he made the courageous decision to defer Division 1 offers and instead serve his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserves for six honorable years. Even amidst his service, soccer remained a driving force in his life, as he continued to excel on the field at both Brookdale Community College and Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island.
For Coach Sal, soccer is more than just a game—it's a platform for personal growth, community building, and positive change. His coaching philosophy goes beyond tactics and strategy; it's about instilling values of resilience, teamwork, and character in every player he mentors. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of the beautiful game, Coach Sal is committed to not only developing exceptional athletes but also nurturing compassionate and resilient leaders.
Under Coach Sal's guidance, players can expect more than just soccer drills and tactical sessions. They can expect a mentor who is invested in their holistic development—physically, mentally, and emotionally. From teaching the fundamentals of the game to imparting life lessons on resilience, teamwork, and empathy, Coach Sal creates an environment where every player has the opportunity to thrive, both on and off the pitch.
Areas of Expertise:
• Leadership Development
• Team Building
• Mental Toughness Training
• Culture
• Community Engagement