Coach Santoro – Shooting Instructor
Transforming shooters into scorers — one rep at a time.
For over 35 years, Coach Jim Santoro has been one of the most respected basketball minds in the Hudson Valley. As the longtime head coach at Our Lady of Lourdes High School and founder of Edge Athletics, Coach Santoro has built a reputation for developing complete players — athletes who not only master fundamentals but also understand why great shooters are great.
Santoro’s teaching philosophy blends technical precision with the human side of performance — rhythm, confidence, and mindset. He’s studied elite shooters and refined techniques that make sense to players at every level, from youth to collegiate and professional athletes.
“Shooting is both simple and complex. Jim has a rare gift — he can make it simple again.”
— Dave Hopla, NBA Shooting Coach, New York Knicks / Team USA
A Legacy of Player Development
Hundreds of athletes who trained under Coach Santoro have advanced to collegiate programs, many recognized for their shooting efficiency, decision-making, and leadership. His hands-on approach ensures that each athlete receives focused attention and meaningful feedback.
Santoro’s philosophy is built on three pillars:
- Simplicity in Mechanics — Build repeatable movements that transfer directly to game play.
- Confidence through Repetition — Instill trust in each athlete’s preparation and form.
- Understanding the Why — Demonstrate to players why the different mechanics of your shot are important and the function they serve.
The Maddy Siegrist Connection
Few players embody Santoro’s impact more than Maddy Siegrist, Villanova All-American and WNBA star.
“Coach Santoro taught me how to shoot — but more than that, he taught me how to trust my shot. Every rep had purpose, and every correction made me better. I wouldn’t be where I am without his foundation.”
— Maddy Siegrist, WNBA / Villanova University
Why Coaches and Players Trust Him
- Proven Results: Decades of player success at every level
- Elite Endorsements: Trusted by NBA and WNBA professionals
- Personalized Feedback: Individual analysis, including video breakdowns
- Game Application: Emphasis on translating skills into live play
“We first heard about Coach Santoro by word of mouth while looking for someone to help our daughter’s shot. From our very first meeting, it was clear he was the right fit — his evaluation was thoughtful, his feedback clear, and he instantly connected with her. We now make the 45-minute trip north for every session, and the improvement in her confidence and form has been remarkable. Highly recommend for anyone serious about getting better.”
— Dave DiPillo, Parent of Current Student“I was searching for a basketball shooting coach for my son — someone who truly understands the technical and mechanical aspects of shooting and can teach those skills effectively. Coach Santoro is exactly the coach I was looking for. He not only knows how to shoot, but more importantly, he knows how to teach it. One of his greatest strengths is his ability to break down complex mechanics into simple, actionable steps my son can easily understand and apply.
Beyond his technical knowledge, Coach Santoro is a fantastic motivator. He consistently encourages my son to give his best effort and is fully dedicated to helping him reach his goals. My son’s shooting form and confidence have improved dramatically. There’s no other coach I would trust to work with him.”
— Brian Duncan, Parent of Current Student