Seasoned, passionate and respected soccer coach with over 24 years’ coaching experience at the Club, High School, Youth and International levels.

Matt is known for his ability in player development, team building, and cultivating a positive, high-performing team culture, based on his “Bring Your Whole Self” coaching philosophy, that embodies holistic development by encouraging, empowering and inspiring players through opposed practices, personal accountability, leadership and a strong focus on team culture and mental toughness while providing mentorship to help players realize their full potential on and off the field.  

Coach Johnson currently serves as the Women’s Head Coach at Putnam Science Academy, a private boarding school located in Putnam, Connecticut where he leads the Women’s program of elite international players from across the globe. Along with high level competition there is strong emphasis on assisting players and providing a pathway into the collegiate game.

Prior to PSA, Matt served as the Girls Varsity Assistant Coach and Goalkeeper Trainer at Plainfield High School. Additionally, he is currently Head Coach at Mach 1 Futbol Club, for the U19 Girls program and contributes to youth development through Soccer IQ, a community-based program for underprivileged students in Rhode Island.

His leadership extends beyond his previous and current roles as he was tasked with launching and expanding a Girls Program for Northeast Rush soccer in Northeast Connecticut and Southern Rhode Island in 2015, as well as serving in a Head Coach position for the Program. He successfully formed new teams from the ground up, recruiting both players and coaching staff, while establishing the administrative and competitive frameworks needed to sustain long-term success.

Johnson has a proven track record of success, including coaching at the International Level with Team Rush USA during the 2018 San Marino Cup in Italy, 2 back to back seasonal divisional championships, and leading a team to the US Youth Soccer Region I Championships in West Virginia in 2016 as part of Northeast CT Rush, his influence has helped shape the futures of many athletes—15 of his former players are currently competing at the collegiate level.

Known for creating inclusive and empowering environments, Coach Johnson brings together players from diverse backgrounds and fosters a strong sense of identity and purpose within his teams. He believes that team culture is the foundation of success, and prioritizes trust, communication, and mutual respect. His training sessions emphasize creativity, competition, and resilience—helping players embrace adversity, develop confidence, and thrive.

Current credentials include USSF D License, National Soccer Coaches Goalkeeper 1 Diploma, Connecticut Licensed Paramedic and holds an Associate’s Degree in occupational Studies and Hospitality Management from the Culinary Institute of America. He is currently working towards his USSF C License and pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management.