Leo De Pra

Hello Academy Parents and Players,

Léo is a distinguished professional with a robust background spanning over four decades in sports, marked by achievements both as an athlete and a coach, with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education (2005) and a Master’s degree in Sports Management (2012).
Athletic Achievements: Léo’s athletic career as a professional volleyball player spanned from 1977 to 1995, during which he achieved remarkable success:
• Five 1st place finishes in the Club Brazilian National Championship.
• Three Gold Medals in the Club South American Championship.
• Two Silver Medals in the Club World Championship.
• Represented the Brazilian National Team from 1981 to 1991.
o Fourth place in the Olympic Games (1988, Seoul, Korea).
o Fourth place in the Senior World Championship (1986, Paris, France).
o Silver Medalist in the Senior World Championship (1982, Buenos Aires, Argentina).
o Bronze Medalist in the Senior Champion World Cup (1981, Tokyo, Japan).
o Silver Medalist in the Junior World Championship (1981, Colorado Springs, USA).
Coaching and Leadership Roles: Transitioning seamlessly into coaching, Léo has made significant contributions across different levels and disciplines:
• Assistant Coach in the Brazilian Men’s National Sitting Volleyball Team (2012-2016):
o Fifth place in the Paralympic Games (2012, London, England).
o Silver Medal in the Paralympic World Championship (2014, Elblag, Poland).
o Gold Medal in the Parapanamerican Games (2015, Toronto, Canada).
• Supervisor roles for the Brazilian National Men’s Teams (Under 19, 21, 23) in 2016, and Women’s Senior National Team in 2017.
• Team Club Coordinator and Coach for Men’s Under 17 and 19 teams in 2018.
• Since 2021, Léo has excelled as a coach in various locations, including Miami, Atlanta, and Virginia.

Léo proudly served as an Assistant Coach with the Women’s USA Paralympic Team, PARIS 2024 GOLD MEDAL.

On a personal note, he has been married to Luciana Sertic De Pra, an ex-indoor and Beach professional volleyball player, since 1996. We have two daughters: Livia, a 25-year-old College DI player and coach at Academy, and Laura, a 26-year-old former College DI player and current professional indoor volleyball setter in Brazil.

His career is defined by his passion for volleyball, leadership skills, and a massive commitment to developing athletes at all levels. His journey from a celebrated athlete to a respected coach underscores his enduring dedication to the sport and community.

#GoAcademy