OAL MLS Next GA League

Reading

Cardenas, Gina

Cardenas, Gina

U14 PAC Reading ELITE GIRLS Head Coach

Gina Cardenas brings a strong blend of playing experience, leadership, and athlete-centered coaching to every team she leads. Originally from the Seattle, Washington area, Gina played high school soccer at Auburn Riverside High School, earning 4A First Team, all-league, and all-state honors as a goalkeeper. She went on to compete with Washington Premier FC, winning a state cup in 2010, before continuing her career at Saint Martin’s University in the Division II GNAC Conference and later with the NWPL’s Seattle Stars.

Now based in Pennsylvania, Gina is entering her third year coaching at the elite level and has just completed her second season as Head Coach of the Reading High School Girls Varsity program. In addition to coaching, Gina is a dedicated educator with 10 years of teaching experience, bringing a classroom-tested approach to leadership, communication, and athlete development. She holds her US Soccer Federation D License and is committed to ongoing professional growth and player-centered coaching.

Gina’s coaching philosophy centers on communication, accountability, and confidence-building. She believes in creating an environment where athletes feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow through mistakes. Her approach balances high expectations with encouragement pushing players to be better teammates, stronger competitors, and more resilient individuals on and off the field.