Let me be clear—I’m not here to preach or pretend I hold the ultimate truth. I'm just sharing my truth, my perspective as someone who has lived and breathed soccer at every level: from youth leagues to elite clubs, from packed stadiums to quiet training fields, and now as a mentor to hundreds of young players.
This blog is for you—whether you're a parent, player, coach, or just someone passionate about the beautiful game. My only goal? To help.
My name is Gino Padula, and I’m proud to say I’m the coach, director, and owner of SP Soccer Academy here in Columbus, Ohio. I was born in Argentina, and after 16 unforgettable seasons playing professional soccer across the globe—in Argentina, Spain, England, France, and the United States—I made a decision that would change my life.
Fourteen years ago, I chose to plant roots in Columbus, a city that embraced me during my final professional years with the Columbus Crew. With the support of my wife and two children, I opened SP Soccer Academy, not just to coach, but to build something meaningful.
Over the years, parents, players, fellow coaches, and soccer enthusiasts have told me, "Gino, you should share your perspective more. People need to hear this stuff." And today, I’m finally doing it.
So here it is: my first blog.
Not because I think I know everything—but because after 40+ years in this game, I’ve seen enough to know that development, not just winning, should always be the focus.
This topic is close to my heart. It's what made me want to coach even before I retired. While I was still playing for the Columbus Crew, I began earning my coaching licenses and running clinics—not only in Columbus, but also in Philadelphia and Atlanta, through programs sponsored by MLS. By the end of 2010, I knew I wanted to stay in the game—not for me, but for the next generation.
I was born on July 11, 1976, in Argentina, and throughout my long career, I played as a left back. I began my professional journey with the Argentine club River Plate in 1996, before moving to Huracán in 1997. In 1998, I took a big step and moved to Europe to play for Xerez in Spain. From 1999 to 2006, I played in English football, starting with Bristol Rovers. After a short time there, I joined Walsall in November 1999 and then transferred to Wigan Athletic in July 2000. In 2002, I signed with Queens Park Rangers, where I quickly became a regular in the squad and a fan favorite. I was proud to be part of the team that earned promotion to the Football League Championship in 2004. In the summer of 2005, I moved to Nottingham Forest, and in 2007, I joined Montpellier HSC in France. Shortly after, I was transferred to the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer. With Columbus, I was fortunate to be part of the team that won the 2008 MLS Supporters' Shield, the 2008 MLS Cup, and the 2009 MLS Supporters' Shield. I’m certified to coach by FIFA and hold an “A” license.