top of page
  • The Pride Store
  • Insta
  • face

 Damian Cotto 

IMG_0629 2.JPG
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Director of Training & Player Development, Pride Fastpitch
Assistant Coach, 18U National

 

Damian’s softball journey began when his daughter started playing at age 10, and he’s been committed to the game ever since. Damian joined the Long Island Pride Girls Fastpitch Softball organization in 2023 as the Director of Training and Player Development, bringing a wealth of experience and a true passion for teaching the game. With over a decade of coaching experience, Damian has spent the last ten years developing young athletes, instilling in them not only the technical skills needed to excel on the field, but also the leadership, confidence, and sportsmanship that last a lifetime.

Damian’s approach to coaching centers on building strong fundamentals and fostering a deep understanding of the game. As a teacher of the sport, he is dedicated to creating an environment where players not only improve their abilities but also gain a genuine love for softball. His emphasis on player development goes beyond the physical—he works to cultivate mental toughness, teamwork, and a strong sense of discipline.

Before his role with the Pride, Damian spent 16 years as a strength coach and the owner of Athletes In Training, where he worked with athletes of all ages to enhance their strength and conditioning. His experience as a strength coach has shaped his approach to training, emphasizing the importance of athleticism, mental toughness, and strength in the development of fastpitch players.

Damian remains highly active and continues to train and compete in senior softball leagues. He plays in two men’s slow-pitch leagues, embodying his belief in the importance of staying active and competitive throughout life. This dedication to fitness and sports fuels his coaching, where he shares his enthusiasm for the game with his players, instilling in them the same love for competition and self-improvement.

Outside of his coaching career, Damian is a proud husband and father. Married for over 30 years, he and his wife raised a wonderful daughter who is a senior at Wesleyan University and a four-year member of the university’s softball team, the Cardinals. One of Damian’s greatest joys has been watching his daughter compete at the highest level, including her time representing Team Puerto Rico at the Junior Pan Am Games, where she earned a bronze medal with the Junior National Softball Team.

In addition to his work with the Pride, Damian is a Court Attorney in Housing Court for the State of New York. His legal career has instilled a disciplined and thoughtful approach to his coaching, ensuring that every player receives not just athletic guidance, but mentorship and leadership that extends beyond the field.

bottom of page