Welcome to our team’s webpage! Here’s a bit about our coaches and their dedicated journey in developing strong, confident female athletes.
Coach Gabe
Coach Gabe has been coaching since 2010, beginning his journey with Black Rock Little League, where he coached his oldest daughter’s softball team. Recognizing his passion for helping young athletes, he became the President of Softball for Black Rock League, helping to grow the program over six years.
In 2016, seeking to expand his impact, Coach Gabe launched a travel softball program originally called the Bridgeport Pride. He soon realized the program’s name could be misleading, so he rebranded it as Connecticut Pride, emphasizing that it’s a program for girls from all neighboring towns.
Since then, Coach Gabe has coached multiple teams, from 10U to 18U, teaching skills like pitching, playing multiple positions, and fostering courage in girls who may have doubted themselves. When he’s not coaching, Coach Gabe works for the City of Bridgeport as one of there electrician.
Coach Jose
Coach Jose began with Connecticut Pride in 2023. His coaching journey started with Caribe Baseball, coaching his son’s baseball team. When his daughter expressed interest in softball, he transitioned to coaching with Caribe Softball.
Looking for a more challenging experience for his daughter, he enrolled her in Connecticut Pride, where she is now thriving as a catcher, shortstop, and outfielder. Outside of coaching, Coach Jose is an electrician working for a private company.
Coach Daisy
Coach Daisy has been coaching since 2011. She began her coaching journey with Black Rock Little League alongside Coach Gabe, guiding her daughters’ teams. She also served as Vice President of Softball for Black Rock Little League, working closely with Coach Gabe to help expand the program.
Driven to make a greater impact, Coach Daisy helped build the Connecticut Pride program from the ground up. She wears many hats—coaching the girls, organizing uniforms, coordinating fundraisers, scheduling games, and managing team logistics. Outside of coaching, she works with the Norwalk Board of Education as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) for students with autism. In the evenings, Daisy works at Cortica in Trumbull, CT, where she supports children on the spectrum both in clinical settings and in their homes.
Assistant Coach Ryan
As an athlete myself, stepping into the role of assistant softball coach has been both a unique and rewarding experience. While I didn’t play softball competitively, my athletic background has provided a solid foundation in teamwork, discipline, and leadership—skills that translate seamlessly into coaching. I’ve loved learning the game, supporting the head coach, and helping our players grow both on and off the field. This journey has pushed me to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and continually expand my knowledge—all while forging meaningful connections with the team.
When I’m not on the sidelines, I enjoy spending quality time at home with friends and family, especially relaxing by the pool. Whether we’re swimming, grilling, or simply hanging out, those moments help me unwind, recharge, and stay connected with the people who matter most.
Outside of coaching, I’ve been working at Haggerty Pools in Norwalk, CT, for the past 14 years. My time there has strengthened my sense of responsibility, customer service skills, and teamwork. It’s a fast-paced environment that keeps me active and engaged, and I take pride in helping families enjoy their pools and create summer memories.
Assistant Coach Luis
I’ve loved the game since I was a kid—starting with watching my uncle and his friends play at Seaside Park, then spending my teens and twenties enjoying pick-up games with friends and family. It’s a passion that has always brought joy and connection into my life.
My coaching journey kicked off in 2021 when my daughter showed interest in softball for the Stratford Recreation League. Supporting her from the sidelines was a fantastic first step—helping her develop skills, build confidence, and deepen her understanding of the game.
In 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to step up and assist with her current team, CT Pride. Being more hands-on with a full team has been an exciting and rewarding experience. Watching these young athletes grow, bond, and unite as a team has rekindled my love for the game and reminded me of why it’s so special to me.
Coach Mia
Mia has an impressive and extensive background in softball, showcasing both her passion and dedication to the sport. Starting at the young age of seven, she embarked on her softball journey with Black Rock Little League, spending four formative years with them. Her transition to the travel softball scene at age 12 allowed her to gain a wide range of experiences, playing for teams such as the Seahawks, Newtown Thunder, Jades, and ultimately, the Connecticut Pride.
Mia continued her athletic career during high school at St. Joseph’s of Trumbull, playing all four years, which no doubt honed her skills further. Her commitment and talent led her to play Division 2 softball at American International College (AIC) in Springfield, MA. Alongside her athletic pursuits, Mia enjoys relaxing by listening to music and practicing makeup, highlighting her well-rounded personality and ability to balance her interests.
We’re proud of our dedicated coaches who help develop not only skilled softball players but also confident, courageous young women.