Coach Name: Craig Gage

Position: Head Coach

Nationality: American

Coaching Experience:

• ECNL & Academy Coach, Atlanta Fire United (2020 - 2023): Oversaw several different age groups ranging from U10 - U14 boys teams at Atlanta Fire up in Duluth, GA. Coached different levels while there (ECNL, SCCL, Academy)

• Area Director, HappyFeet Soccer Atlanta (2020-2023): Worked in several daycares and preschools in the Northeast area of Atlanta. Running 30 minute soccer classes for all genders and ages between 2-6 years old.

• Assistant Director of Coaches U11-U14 Boys, NC Fusion (2017 - 2020): Helped the Director of Coaches oversee anywhere from 15 - 30 youth teams and a staff of 7-12 coaches. Along with coaching three teams of my own in the NCYSA leagues in North Carolina. 

• Assistant Men's Soccer Coach, Greensboro College (2016-2017): After playing at Greensboro College, Craig joined the staff and helped see the Pride advance to the USA South Conference Semi-Finals. Also helped recruit the incoming 2017 freshman class.

Playing Career:

• Carolina U23 Railhawks (now North Carolina FC) (2015): Played a summer season semi professionally for U23 Railhawks in the NPSL. Played as an outside back and winger in 8 matches notching 1 goal and 2 assists. 

• Greensboro College (2012-2015): Craig was a four year starter for the Pride. Also, a four time USA South All-Conference selection. Craig helped the Pride win two USA South Regular Season Championships, one USA South Tournament Championship, and a NCAA DIII Tournament appearance. Craig finished his career in Greensboro with 20 goals and 15 assists.

Education and Certifications:

• US Soccer Licenses, D Course, 11v11, and 9v9 (2017-2020): Earned his coaching licenses through US Soccer in North Carolina to help learn how to develop and manage the environment in an array of situations for all age groups and for all parties involved in a good soccer environment. Parents, players, staff, and admin.

• Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration, Greensboro College (2016): Provided a solid foundation in sports administration and management principles.

Coaching Philosophy: Coach Craig is always focused on making sure his players are learning the fundamentals of the game. Aiming to make sure all players have a strong foundation and understanding of the game to help them make great strides after he is done coaching them. He also wants to make sure that the players are enjoying the game that he loves so much.

Personal Life: Craig Gage lives in Midtown Atlanta with his girlfriend Makenzie. In his free time, he enjoys watching all kinds of sports (soccer, football, basketball), learning more and more about the beautiful game, and going for walks with his dogs Maverick and Mya.