Coach Spotlight: Mario Sustaita
Love for the Game — On and Off the Pitch
Author: The Football Life Editorial Team
Reading Time: 3-4 min read
Category: Coaches
Location: San Fernando / San Gabriel Valley
Mario Sustaita is Director of Coaching (DOC) at Prime LAFC, based in the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valley. In his own words, he shares his coaching journey, his philosophy, and what football has taught him about life.
My Journey
"Hi, my name is Mario. I grew up playing in the San Gabriel Valley for Villa Park. My love for the game runs deep in me, as now I have fully transitioned from being a player into a coach. My coaching journey was rough at first, but then I was guided by Cherif Zein, as he gave me his knowledge."
What Inspired Me
"What inspired me was the kids — watching them grow from not knowing anything to this complete change of being a great footballer."
My Coaching Philosophy
"I would describe my coaching philosophy based on the legends that have paved the way, like Ronaldinho, when he said 'I learned everything about life with a ball at my feet,' as well as teaching the kids the right attributes to play this game not only beautifully but also simple."
"Values I try to instill in my players are hard work, teamwork, and preparation. Those three things I believe carry you throughout your day-to-day life."
"Make sure that when it's all said and done at the day, you gave it everything you have — with no regrets, no matter what it is."
— Mario Sustaita
What Separates Good Teams From Great Ones
"To me, what separates good teams from great teams is not just what they do on the pitch, but also what they do off of the pitch — team bonding, getting extra touches in, and working on their craft."
The Biggest Lesson Football Has Taught Me
"No matter what the outcome looks like, work hard and never give up."
My Favorite Football Memory
"Winning the Villa Park final undefeated, as well as playing with a high school friend in the CIF Championship at Marshall Fundamental in Pasadena."
Football Is…
"Life."
What Football Life Means to Me
"Football life to me means love, because you have love for the game so much you cannot go a day without it."
Quick Fire with Mario
|
Favorite Club |
Manchester United |
| Favorite Player Growing Up | Ronaldinho |
| Favorite Current Player | Lamine Yamal |
| Favorite Stadium | Old Trafford |
| Favorite Coffee Order | Cubano con leche ☕ |
| Favorite Boots | Nike Mercurial Vapor |
| One Word Players Would Use to Describe Him | Tough |
Learn more about Prime LAFC & contact information below:
Prime LAFC | primelafc.com | Instagram: @primelafc
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