Game Focus & Adaptability
Stay locked in from kickoff to the final whistle and adjust quickly to the flow of play.
Elite Training.
Whole-Person Development.
Using soccer as the vehicle to become the best versions of ourselves.
Empowering athletes to reach their full potential
At Gioca Soccer Academy, we believe development goes far beyond the field. We started Gioca because local academies were prioritizing size over quality, leaving too many players overlooked. Our focus is different: small groups, individualized attention, and a holistic approach that builds both skill and character. Every player is challenged to grow technically, mentally, and personally, so they can thrive not just in soccer, but in every area of life.
We stay true to our mission with a consistent voice: professional, positive, and inspiring. Every interaction on the field, on social media, or here on our website, reflects our values of respect, integrity, empathy, and love for the game. Gioca isn't just a place to train. It's a community where athletes learn to compete with confidence, lead with character, and enjoy the process of becoming their best selves.
Mental Performance Training
Unlocking the Mindset for Success On and Off the Field
Recovery & Match Readiness
Manage stress, bounce back after tough games, and prepare mentally for the next challenge.
Team Leadership & Communication
Learn how to support teammates, give direction on the field, and build unity in the squad.
Pressure & Performance Coaching
Build confidence to handle big moments, penalties, tryouts, and high-stakes matches.
Goal Setting for Development
Create clear soccer goals (skills, fitness, tactical awareness) and track progress season to season.
Not Just a Soccer Academy
Skill & Game Analysis
Review and feedback so players understand their performance and how to improve.
Mental Performance Coaching
Confidence, focus, and resilience training that prepares players for high-pressure moments.
Team Building & Leadership
We teach communication, respect, and leadership to create stronger teammates and individuals.
Player Development Pathway
Clear goals and a growth plan to track progress season to season.
Community & Culture
A supportive environment built on integrity, empathy, and a true love for the game.
Trusted by Central Jersey Families
Dozens of families already count on Gioca to deliver real development, both on and off the field.
Meet The Founders
At Gioca, we believe soccer is more than a sport. It is a tool to develop confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. Our founders created Gioca out of necessity. They saw how many academies focused on numbers over quality, leaving players without the individual attention and holistic training they deserved.
Learn More
Zane Taha
Founder & Coach
Julian Taha
Founder & Coach
What Parents Are Saying
Families stay, and they send their friends
Five out of five stars.
Coach Zane is a passionate coach, committed to challenging his players to develop both individually and collectively as a team. He has a long-term vision for their development, focused on playing the game correctly, honing their fundamental skills, and holding them accountable while keeping it fun.
Five out of five stars.
A true exemplar of commitment, expertise, and leadership. From the moment my 8-year-old son first laced up his cleats, Coach Zane guided him every step of the way. What began as tentative steps soon transformed into confident strides. His patient and nurturing approach was exactly what my son needed.
Five out of five stars.
Coach Zane is a great coach for players who want to improve. He has helped me mentally and physically and made me more confident on and off the ball. His drills are easy to understand, and he pushes you to become better every session.
Contact
Claim your free session
Tell us about your athlete and we will be in touch with the right team, schedule, and next steps. Prefer to talk? Call or email us directly.
Where We Train
Our locations
We run our sessions at fields across South River, New Jersey. Each one is set up for real training, with space for small groups and competitive games.
Veterans Drive Athletic Field
Veterans Drive
South River, NJ 08882
Varga Park
125 William Street
South River, NJ 08882
Dailey's Pond Recreation Area
100 E Prospect Street
South River, NJ 08882
Not sure which field is closest for your family? Reach out and we will point you to the location nearest you.
Call 609-819-6499Frequently Asked Questions
Everything parents ask us first
We compete in EDP and other NJYS certified leagues. Our teams range from U7 to U18, with every player placed at the appropriate level.
No prior experience is required. We develop players at every level, from beginners to advanced. Our coaches provide personalized guidance to help each player progress at their own pace.
We offer programs for players from U7 to U18, grouped by age and ability so every athlete is challenged appropriately.
We train at fields across South River, NJ, including Veterans Drive Athletic Field, Varga Park, and Dailey's Pond Recreation Area. Reach out and we will point you to the location nearest you.
Yes. All of our coaches are certified and have completed comprehensive training to ensure top-quality coaching.
We follow strict safety protocols, use high-quality equipment, and ensure our coaches are trained in first aid.
We coach the whole player. Our academy emphasizes the habits and routines off the field that maximize performance on it, alongside elite technical training and genuinely small groups.