IAN
PESSOA.

Born in Brazil and raised across Albania, Turkey, and Spain, Ian learned the game through different cultures, environments, and expectations. His playing journey took him through Beşiktaş’s academy system in Diyarbakır, to a Turkish U13 national team tryout, and then to four years of collegiate soccer at Cedarville University. He speaks Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, and English.

That perspective is backed by dedicated study. Ian holds a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Ohio University and the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification. His path connects the experience of being a player with the scientific preparation required to coach performance.

He spent a season with the Columbus Crew Academy performance staff, supporting U15–U18 players alongside technical coaches, athletic trainers, and nutritionists. His experience also includes coaching youth, collegiate, and professional athletes through Donskov Strength & Conditioning, Athletes in Action, and Ohio University, as well as work with Olympic sport teams at The Ohio State University.

At LJP, Ian brings those experiences into the details of athlete preparation: how a player accelerates, changes direction, develops strength, and expresses power. He understands the ambition of a young soccer player because that is where his own journey began. His background brings an international perspective and a serious commitment to the craft of performance coaching.