David Ricca has been involved in soccer his whole life, ranging from being a player, scout and coach, to being the liaison to Latin American International teams for MLS, as well as serving on the 2010 FIFA World Cup media team in South Africa.
Prior to that, he was an International Wealth Manager at Morgan Stanley and Smith Barney and is a 9/11 survivor. He regularly gives talks about how, in the aftermath of 9/11 he used his soccer to deal with PTSD and established Just Live Soccer.
Currently he manages the Innovate to Grow grant from US Soccer for New Jersey Youth Soccer, leading the way for the grassroots initiative and helping make soccer the preeminent youth sport in New Jersey.
“My personal motto has always been, ‘Play with your Heart, Soul and Mind!’ But the mental part is often overlooked by all of us. I feel that now, more than ever, taking care of our mental health is vital and it’s a bonus to use that strength on the field. I’m so excited to be part of this team that values mental health and that encourages players, coaches, families, and communities to be resilient!”
David Ricca
“The opportunity to travel the world and get to know people from all over the world was by far the best thing that soccer ever gave me. It’s a belief that David shares and lives by, and it’s what connected us from the very first moment we met. I admire David for the man that he is, especially how he continues to live his life to serve and give back to others! It’s such a joy and privilege to add him to our group!”
Wells Thomson: former 9-yr Pro + Soccer Resilience® Founder
David Ricca believes SOCCER IS LIFE! It’s a daily ritual for him to watch soccer, talk about soccer, and play soccer. For David, there is nothing more thrilling and satisfying than being out on the field, connecting with people from all different cultures, backgrounds, and age groups.
Through David’s role as an ambassador, Soccer Resilience® will be able to expand its mission to provide soccer players, coaches, and parents around the world with unmatched mental fitness training, resources, support, and benefits!
Soccer Resilience®: Our mission and skill is to train the most underutilized competitive edge in soccer, the MIND, transforming the mindset, performance and wellbeing of athletes, coaches and parents. We help the “software” (mental) bring the best out of the “hardware” (technical, tactical, physical). Our founders include a World Cup Champion, a MLS Cup Champion, a 20-year Psychologist and former NCAA Division I Coach/Pro Team President. We are mindset coaches, mental game advisors and content providers for tools and strategies for all levels, youth to pro, including organizations such as NWSL Players Association and SOCCER.COM. Train your brain. Transform your game…and life.
