At DME Academy Sarasota, daytime training is more than just practice—it’s a full-scale development experience designed to transform talented athletes into complete players. Each weekday morning, student-athletes take part in a 1-hour and 45-minute on-field session built around one ambitious goal: 2,000 touches a day. Those touches translate to confidence, control, and creativity on the ball—skills that separate good players from great ones and its already showing in just the first two months of the program.

Following field sessions, players transition directly to the gym, where they train for strength, conditioning, speed, and agility. Beyond the physical work, the program integrates mental training and video analysis, ensuring every athlete becomes a true student of the game—prepared not only to play but to think and lead like a professional.

Meet the Trainers

Tonio Paternostro
A U.S. Soccer A-Licensed coach, former IMG Academy coach, and former U.S. National Team scout, Tonio brings a wealth of experience in identifying and developing top talent. His tactical insight and attention to detail elevate every training session, helping players understand the “why” behind every movement and decision.

Jivan Rodriguez
As the owner of RDA, Jivan has earned a reputation for developing technically sharp and confident players through ball mastery. Jivan works with the athletes weekly to maximize touches and 1v1 success with a flare for mental toughness and grit.

John Taylor
Known for his discipline, professionalism, and relentless drive, John Taylor plays an essential role in connecting on-field performance with physical readiness. His approach emphasizes accountability, consistency, and work ethic—values that shape the competitive culture DME is known for. JT is our Assistant Direector of Coaching as well as leads the top boys team in the club, our 2010 boys group.

Jared Antista
Founder and owner of DME Academy Sarasota, Jared leads by example both on and off the field. As head coach for three teams in the girls’ program, he brings an unmatched passion for player development and program growth focused on fundamentals over flash. His vision—“Do More Every Day”—drives the academy’s mission to provide world-class training, academic balance, and character development for every athlete.

At DME Sarasota, the formula is simple but powerful: 2,000 touches a day, daily physical and mental training, and guidance from some of the best coaches in the game. The result? A player pathway built not just for winning, but for lasting success in soccer and in life.