Welcome to Joga Bonito Academy!

"Play Beautiful Train Brilliant"

At Joga Bonito Academy, we celebrate the art and passion of soccer while fostering growth, resilience, and brilliance in every player. Our mission is to develop not just skilled athletes but well-rounded individuals who carry the values of teamwork, dedication, and creativity on and off the field.

Whether you’re here to join our training programs, explore our community, or gear up with exclusive Joga Bonito apparel, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll elevate your game, ignite your passion, and embrace the true spirit of soccer, the beautiful game.

Let’s embark on this journey together.

What Does Joga Bonito Mean?

“Joga Bonito” is a Portuguese phrase that translates to “Play Beautiful.”

but it’s more than just words, it’s a philosophy that inspires everything we do at Joga Bonito Academy.

The Spirit of Joga Bonito

Creativity & Flair - Encouraging players to express themselves with skill, imagination, and freedom.
Joy & Passion - Teaching kids to love the game and embrace every moment on the field.
Respect & Sportsmanship - Building character through teamwork, humility, and respect for the game.
Elegance & Flow - Developing a style of play that is effective, but also beautiful to watch.

Coach Hugo Alves

Founder & Head Coach – Joga Bonito Academy

Coach Hugo is a Connecticut-based youth soccer coach with over 12 years of experience developing players across Milford, Orange, New Haven, and Fairfield County. Known for his positive energy, technical expertise, and player-first approach, Hugo has coached in multiple respected programs including Omar’s Soccer Academy, Milford United, Connecticut Pythons, Orange Soccer Association, Beachside Soccer Club, and Barcelona Academy Soccer Camps.

In 2024, he launched Joga Bonito Academy, a training program designed to build creative, confident, high-IQ players through modern skill development, detailed coaching, and an encouraging learning environment. His philosophy blends Brazilian flair with American player-development standards, helping athletes improve not only their technical ability but also their mindset, decision-making, and passion for the game.

Over the years, Coach Hugo has worked with hundreds of players at all levels, from beginners building fundamentals to advanced athletes preparing for premier and national-level pathways. His training focuses on ball mastery, combination play, situational awareness, and building players who love the game as much as they love competing.

In addition to on-field coaching, Hugo has expanded Joga Bonito Academy through exclusive partnerships—offering players unique opportunities such as NYCFC matchday experiences, special clinics, and year-round programs.

Coach Hugo’s mission is simple: help every player train brilliant, play beautiful, and grow with confidence on and off the field.