Before assuming his role as Head Coach at Pioneer Academy, Coach Pope spent three years at Our Savior Lutheran in New York City. During his time as an assistant coach, he mentored over 20 Division 1 players, numerous scholarship-level players, and played a crucial role in guiding Our Saviour to their first-ever Grind Session World Championship.
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Matthew Silvestri joined Pioneer Academy in the 2022-2023 school year, bringing a passion for expanding and strengthening the school's Athletics Department. A graduate of Manhattan College in Riverdale, New York, Mr. Silvestri earned a degree in Health and Physical Education while competing as a member of the Men's Swimming and Diving team.
Since joining Pioneer Academy, Mr. Silvestri has consistently expanded athletic opportunities each year, creating new avenues for student involvement and growth. As of the 2024-2025 school year, Pioneer Academy offers 10 different athletic programs, all available to students at a variety of levels. Additionally, Mr. Silvestri has overseen the school's new memberships in two prestigious athletic organizations: the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) in the 2022-2023 school year and the Passaic County Coaches Association (PCCA), expected to begin in Fall 2025. Mr. Silvestri is committed to helping Pioneer Academy grow into a successful and dynamic athletics program. His vision, combined with the support of staff and administration, promises continued growth and new opportunities for Pioneer Academy students.
In the summer, Mr. Silvestri is a proud member of the Sea Girt Beach Patrol, where he is a Sergeant on the beach patrol. He enjoys participating in lifeguard tournaments, particularly in rowing events. Additionally, he enjoys surfing and works as a surf instructor at the Sea Girt Surf School. Mr. Silvestri is a certified Emergency Medical Responder, as well as a CPR and First Aid Instructor.
I was born and raised in Argentina, where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education. After graduation, I moved to the United States to continue my studies in Health Education at Montclair State University. Sports have always been a big part of my life, and I still enjoy playing soccer and volleyball with friends and family whenever I can.
My teaching career began in 2006, and I’ve had the privilege of working with students from elementary through high school in Hoboken, Teaneck, Montague, and Haskell. During this time, I coached cross country, track and field, and soccer, while developing Health and Physical Education programs that supported students' physical and personal growth.
I’m passionate about teaching young people the many benefits of exercise—from building strong bodies to fostering teamwork and having fun. In my classes, I emphasize sportsmanship, personal growth, and helping students make thoughtful decisions for their health and well-being.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Daniel, and our two children, Christina and Gabriel. We love to travel and experience new cultures together. In my free time, I also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, soccer, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking.
I’m proud to be part of the school community. During my time here, I’ve worked to make the PE program more engaging by introducing new sports like Kickball, badminton, soccer, volleyball, hockey, and pickleball tournaments. Additionally, I’ve created a health program for students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, which has been incredibly rewarding.
James was a four year member of the Princeton University Men’s Soccer Team and graduated in 2007 with a BA in Economics. After college, he played three seasons with the Morris County Colonials in the NPSL.
He began coaching youth soccer for West Essex in 2014 and enjoyed success at the club and middle school levels. Most notably, his West Essex Middle School Boy’s Team won the 2016 Essex County Tournament. Since then, he has held coaching positions at Paramus Catholic High School and Elmwood Park High School.
Most recently, his Elmwood Park JV Boys advanced to the second round of the 2022 Bergen Cup Tournament, a feat of which he is very proud. James is excited to join Pioneer Academy and continue sharing his knowledge and passion for the game. He will also be teaching business classes in the upcoming school year.
In addition to his assistant coaching position at Our Saviour, Coach Pope also serves as the Head Coach of the New York Lighting AAU team, where he has achieved significant success. He has won multiple team championships and has helped numerous students secure college scholarship offers.
Prior to pursuing a coaching career, Coach Pope enjoyed a successful playing career that culminated in his graduation from the University of Texas-Permian Basin. As a member of the university's Division 2 men's basketball program, he made significant contributions. Alongside his collegiate basketball endeavors, Coach Pope obtained a degree in communications.
