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Meet Head Men's Soccer Coach - Gabe Toro

04.08.2021

Gabriel ToroGabe Toro: Head Coach

Our series continues of introducing our readers to our coaching staff and their particular philosophies. Our next introduction is Head Men's Soccer coach, Gabe Toro.

How would you describe your coaching style?

I am very holistic and positive. I want to create complete players, give them the ability to solve problems quickly on the pitch. I want my players to be cerebral, thinking quickly and having the skills to perform is something I like to be about all the time in my coaching. I would say my stye is cerebral and positive, trying to instill confidence in each player and creating that mindset throughout the entire team.

What is your most memorable moment as a coach?

Playing in a tournament in New Jersey and playing the undefeated Bryant Stratton team. We were major underdogs, no one thought we had a chance to win except us. We pulled out the win and seeing the joy and surprise in everyone's face was priceless.

How would you describe your team culture?

My team culture is family, being there for each other and pulling your brother up and never putting him down. Building a collective unit, sacrificing self for the betterment of the team is what I always try to cultivate.

Who is your coaching role model and why?

Growing up I enjoyed watching Alex Ferguson who coached Manchester United to many championships. He seemed to know how to organize his players where their strengths would work best together. He had that team first mentality and was able to get the players to buy into his ideas.

What is your favorite quote?

Johan Cruyff is one of my favorite players of all time. He has many quotes I like but if I had to pick one it would be: " Playing football is very simple, but playing simple football is the hardest thing there is".

What lessons did you learn from your playing days?

I learned of patience on the field and that hesitation can be sometimes as important as speed. I also learned that once you reach a high level, you have the ability to move quickly but process things slowly. I also learned that playing simple individually and together is the most powerful and effective tool in being a successful team.

What are the characteristics you look for in student-athletes?

I look for character and how they treat their teammates. Secondly, I want them to respect the game and everyone their working hard for that common goal.

What word best describes your current team?

Diverse.

Who is one athlete you remember watching as a kid who really impressed you on and off the field?

I was a big fan of Ryan Giggs from Manchester United. He played like me and we both were natural left footed players, so I think that made me a big fan.

What factors played in your decision to become a coach at CCRI?

I played at the University of Rhode Island and many of my friends told me about their playing experience with Head Coach Victor Gaspar. They all had great stories to tell about their time with Coach Gaspar. Coach Gaspar is also a URI alumni and he would often come to watch games at URI. A few years after I graduated Coach Gaspar reached out to me to join him as his assistant at CCRI. I remembered all the positive stories that my friends told me and I thought it would be fantastic opportunity to give back to the Rhode Island soccer community and also learn from Coach Victor Gaspar.