Today we’d like to introduce you to Jon Caldwell.
Hi Jon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
School of Ginga, established in 2010, is an organization that is dedicated to the soccer development and love of the beautiful game. We set out to change the technical ability of young aspiring soccer players through our Skills classes while also providing street soccer free-play opportunities to players.
The impact that School of Ginga had was tremendous and we continued to grow as an organization. Now in 2022, we offer multiple programs including: Skills classes, Free-play opportunities, full year soccer programs, futsal (indoor soccer 5v5) programs, leagues, and youth tournaments. Multiple youth players have continued their careers collegiately, and we even have former players that are playing professionally in the MLS. Our emphasis on passion, skill, and creating positive environments has also influenced other local youth soccer clubs in the area to provide similar programs and environments.
We currently have a men’s professional team playing futsal in the NFPL. School of Ginga is an official partner of F.C. Cincinnati (MLS soccer club) and a partner with 3CDC, a Cincinnati based organization formed to improve the downtown areas.
Families involved with School of Ginga feel a true sense of community. Our staff is very passionate about soccer and development. We are truly blessed to have a wonderful organization that is dedicated to the youth of Greater Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky areas.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
We have been very blessed and have seen much success since we began. We have no doubt seen challenges along the way. Cincinnati has many soccer fans and families, and they’re are multiple soccer programs available. A new soccer program can bring more choices for soccer families. Some soccer clubs were welcoming and others wanted us to fail. Others began offering similar programs, while others try to imitate our model exactly. Our focus remains on our service and we hope to help continue leading the way in soccer development.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
School of Ginga provides soccer programs for young aspiring athletes. Our approach to the beautiful game is different and unique. We involve team trainings, individual trainings, free-play, leagues, and tournaments. Ginga is nationally recognized in the sport of Futsal (5v5 indoor soccer), where we have won 2 national titles and 1 world championship title. We are most proud of the individuals who have excelled at Ginga. We have produced 1 MLS player, 100+ collegiate athletes, 21 USYF national team players, 6 USYF National team captains, and 3 USYF team MVPS.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Our environment matters most to us. We aim to create an atmosphere that is positive and challenging. We look to encourage players to compete the right way all while playing soccer with determination and skill.
Contact Info:
- Email: gingatouch@gmail.com
- Website: www.schoolofginga.com
- Instagram: @schoolofginga
- Facebook: @schoolofginga
- Twitter: @schoolofginga
Joel Domoe
May 10, 2022 at 10:45 pm
My son played both futsal and soccer with Ginga for about six years. I consider Jon and Derek’s program to be the most influential and foundational for him (and he has played with a LOT of clubs). They are truly exceptional with maximizing each players abilities, teaching the tactics and strategies of the game, and also instilling solid values. They are truly unique in the over-commercialized youth soccer landscape. Jon and Derek are also great guys with tremendous passion and character. Thanks for highlighting their considerable efforts and all the best to Ginga! Eo! Eo!