
Training the Next Generation: Grit, Growth & Game-Ready Strength
From Athlete to Coach: Injury Sparks Purpose
Vinny’s career started like many in the industry: with personal injuries. Once a promising multi-sport athlete with trials in pro soccer, the NFL, and rugby, injuries redirected his passion toward coaching. He didn’t just want to train—he wanted to understand movement, reduce injury risk, and help others avoid the same setbacks.
"I realized I couldn’t just play forever—but I could help other people play better, longer, and stronger."
Now with 7+ years of coaching under his belt, including working with youth athletes, high schoolers, pros, and everyone in between, Vinny’s style is informed by grit, science, and a love for movement.
The Power of Foundational Strength & Sprinting
Vinny’s philosophy is built on foundational strength training—squats, deadlifts, pressing—and sprint mechanics. He believes sprinting and strength are essential for all athletes, from soccer players to powerlifters.
"Everyone should sprint. It builds your CNS, enhances force output, and makes your lifts better."
He doesn’t believe in "sport-specific" training in the trendy sense. Instead, he focuses on universal movement patterns that build better humans, not just better athletes. Whether you're kicking, lifting, sprinting, or tackling—movement is movement.
Female Athletes, ACLs & Mental Strength
We dove into training female athletes and the higher ACL risk they face. Vinny’s mission? Prepare young women with the strength and awareness they need to thrive in high-risk sports like soccer and rugby.
"There's no such thing as 'girl push-ups.' There’s just good push-ups and variations."
More importantly, Vinny trains mindset. From teaching discipline to building confidence, he ensures that training sessions give athletes more than strength—they give life skills.
Why Movement is Medicine
Vinny’s coaching goes beyond the gym floor. His programming includes everything from:
-
Sprint work for CNS development
-
Rotational power for injury prevention
-
Yoga and mobility work for recovery
-
Functional fitness to enhance daily life
"You won’t play your sport forever, but you can move forever—if you train right."
His youth athletes not only gain strength, but learn how to warm up, cool down, recover, and stay accountable. That’s long-term success.
Coaching with Heart: Grit, Growth & Genuineness
This episode was packed with gems—from athletic periodization to why youth training isn’t about PRs but preparation. Vinny’s raw honesty and grounded coaching style offer a powerful reminder:
"100 pounds doesn’t care what gender, age, or background you are. You either lift it or you don’t."
If you’re a coach, athlete, or parent, this is a must-listen. Vinny’s insight challenges old-school methods and replaces them with what actually works.
🎧 Join the movement at iehealth.co