Private Lessons & Coaches in Hillside, NJ

Dr. Carl A. Walden – Coaching Biography Dr. Carl A. Walden is a respected basketball coach, player development expert, and community leader with over 15 years of coaching and mentoring experience, working with athletes from youth programs to the professional level. Known for his passion, structure, and deep understanding of the game, Dr. Walden has built a career rooted in servant leadership, athlete empowerment, and social impact. Dr. Walden’s basketball journey began at the historic St. Anthony High School in Jersey City, NJ, where he served as a team manager under the legendary Hall of Fame Coach Bob Hurley Sr. During his time at St. Anthony, Dr. Walden studied the game closely from one of the greatest minds in basketball history, developing a sharp eye for detail, discipline, and what it takes to build winning programs. He went on to apply those lessons throughout a coaching career spanning more than a decade, during which he has mentored, trained, and developed hundreds of athletes, helping many earn college scholarships or sign professional contracts overseas. Dr. Walden is the Co-Founder of Next Level Select Equal Opportunity Alliance Inc., a nonprofit organization that uses sports, education, and housing initiatives to transform the lives of underserved youth. He is also the Co-Owner of BC Aragats, a professional team in the Armenia Pro League, where he’s helping pioneer a movement to grow the game internationally while opening new doors for American and Armenian athletes alike. His mission is multifaceted: Lead the "Armenia Loves Basketball" campaign, which combines youth outreach, pro team branding, and cultural impact. Establish a sports academy and trade school in Newark, NJ and Armenia focused on degrees in sports management, real estate, broadcasting, barbering, and more. Launch a player-owned team model inspired by the Green Bay Packers, rooted in community investment and long-term sustainability. Provide affordable housing, education, and job training for youth and families in need. Dr. Walden also serves as a Player Development Coach, helping athletes sharpen their fundamentals, raise their basketball IQ, and prepare for life beyond the game. He holds a doctoral degree, graduated with a 4.0 GPA, and is the creative force behind the upcoming documentary The Dynamic Duo of Basketball, chronicling Ed and Jordan Hudson’s historic journey as the first father-son duo to play professional basketball together. From managing at St. Anthony to owning a pro team overseas, Dr. Carl A. Walden’s journey is a testament to vision, resilience, and a calling to uplift others through the game he loves.

With 8 years on the court and 4 years as an assistant to a high schools boys varsity program, I help players unlock their potential and refine their skills, ensuring a fun and supportive training environment. My experience shapes well-rounded athletes ready to excel.

With three decades dedicated to the art of basketball, I bring a wealth of experience to every session. I foster skill development and instill a deep love for the game. I tailor training to elevate your abilities on the court while enjoying the process.

With 30 years on the field, I cultivate not just football players, but leaders. My passion lies in fostering strategic thinking and a love for the game. Let's unlock your full potential together.

For over 10 years I’ve had the privilege of both playing and coaching. Specifically in the area of offensive and defensive line, with the past 4 years focused in coaching all areas of offensive play. I am dedicated to assisting players reach their full potential on the field, as well as bring to them the concept that what we learn through sports, can be translated to life outside of it. i.e. hard work and facing adversity.

For seven years, I've cultivated athletes' potential on the gridiron. I offer strategic insight and personalized training, fostering both skill and a love for the game. My coaching empowers players to excel, build character, and achieve their football aspirations.

Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember. That passion led me to Wilkes University and then to the ECHL, where I've been playing professionally for the past three seasons. Now, I'm excited to share my knowledge with the next generation. I've been running hockey camps and lessons for players of all ages, from beginners to aspiring pros. My coaching goes beyond skills, focusing on mental toughness, efficiency, and the small details that make a big difference. I incorporate skill development into game-like scenarios, so players learn how to apply techniques effectively. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your game, I can help you reach your full potential. As I consider my own future in pro hockey, I'm eager to help others achieve their hockey dreams.

"I started working with Nick 3 years ago in the summers. He not only devolved the skill side of my game, but has taught me alot about positioning, and the small details that make up the game of hockey. Will be continuing to work with him!

For over two decades, I've cultivated a love for baseball in athletes of all levels. My passion is helping players unlock their full potential on the field. I am eager to help you refine your skills and strategy!

I'm a firm believer that success in baseball comes from mastering the fundamentals while fostering a genuine love for the game. With 16 years of coaching experience, I'm dedicated to helping each player reach their full potential on and off the field. Let's work together to elevate your game!

As a starting pitcher at Eastern Connecticut State University (D3, top 10 in the country 1996-1997) and Radford University (D1), I was invited to a workout with Fortitudo Baseball in Bologna, Italy. During this tournament, I pitched a 7-inning no-hitter with 17 strikeouts and 3 walks, earning an immediate contract offer and marking the beginning of my professional baseball career. From 2001 to 2013, I had the privilege of playing 13 years with Fortitudo Bologna, where I transitioned to the role of closer due to the team's veteran starting pitching staff. Embracing this role, I never looked back. During my tenure, we secured three Italian championships and three European championships, and we had the honor of being the first European team invited to the Asia Series in Taiwan in 2013. Our team was voted the best in Europe, a testament to our hard work and dedication. I was named to the All-Star team three times and earned the title of Top Reliever of the League on three occasions. I still hold the record as Fortitudo's All-Time Saves Leader and finished my career just three saves shy of the all-time record in Italian baseball history. From 2001 to 2007, I was honored to represent Team Italy on the National Level, competing in prestigious international tournaments such as the 2001 World Cup of Baseball in Taiwan, the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, and the 2006 Inaugural World Baseball Classic. After retiring in 2013, I moved to Chicago and transitioned into coaching, providing private lessons across the Chicagoland area. I worked with aspiring athletes on pitching and hitting and consulted with teams on their practice routines and game strategies. I had the pleasure of coaching for several organizations, including Glenview Blaze, Diamond Dawgz, and Stoppers Baseball Academy travel programs. In 2021, I relocated to Colorado, where I joined USA Prime Colorado as a coach for their high school-level summer and fall teams. I conducted lessons at the Khaos Clubhouse in Littleton, Colorado during this time. I joined Lutheran High School as their varsity pitching coach. A year later, I joined the coaching staff at Colorado Christian University (D2) as a volunteer pitching coach. In June of 2024, my wife and I settled in Bloomfield, New Jersey, where I continue to pursue my passion for coaching and mentoring young athletes. Currently am the Pitching coach for Bloomfield College of Montclair State University (D2).