OUR STAFF
ABOUT OUR STAFF
OUR MISSION
Welcome to Penn Prospects Soccer Schools, where we take pride in our commitment to excellence in coaching. Our founder and owner, Lee Bakewell, envisioned a space where players of all ages and levels could embark on a journey of improvement within a positive and safe learning environment. Our mission is rooted in fostering a love for the game while ensuring that each player, regardless of experience, finds the support needed to thrive.
Lee Bakewell's goal is simple yet powerful – to create an inclusive space where every individual can enhance their skills and passion for soccer. At the heart of our philosophy is the belief that quality coaching is the key to unlocking a player's full potential. To achieve this, every coach associated with Penn Prospects Soccer Schools undergoes rigorous background checks and receives comprehensive education.
Our commitment extends beyond the field, as we prioritize creating a culture of safety, respect, and continuous learning. By embracing our training philosophy, our coaches become not only mentors but also ambassadors of positive growth for every player. Join us on this exciting journey as we strive to make soccer a fulfilling and enriching experience for everyone, regardless of their background, age, or skill level.
MEET THE OWNER/FOUNDER
LEE BAKEWELL
Meet Lee Bakewell, the visionary founder and owner of Penn Prospects Soccer Schools. Lee's coaching journey began with a simple yet powerful aspiration – to make a meaningful impact and difference in the lives of individual players while rekindling the love for the game. His dedication to player development goes beyond the field, reflecting a passion for soccer that goes hand in hand with creating positive experiences.
Lee’s previous role was as Academy Director at TSF Academy [MLS NEXT Founding Member Club] from 2013-2022 before leaving his role to focus on developing soccer in Northampton County, PA region where he currently lives with his girlfriend, Rhianna. Lee currently holds his USSF ‘A’ Youth, USSF ‘A’ National, United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma and US Soccer Coach Educator Grassroots License.
TESTIMONIALS
LUIS MENDOZA
Technical Director at Weston FC
Former Director of Coaching at TSF Academy & Former US Soccer Scout
"Coach Lee Bakewell is a dedicated professional. He gets the best out of his players, knows the game and teaches his players not only how to be good players but how to be good humans. A pleasure to have worked alongside him. A high level coach and an even better person."
NATALIE MELILLO
Former Professional Soccer Player at Sassari Torres Femminile (Italy)
Collegiate Soccer Player at Troy University (DI)
Assistant Women’s Coach at Eastern University
"I can truly say I would not be the player I am today if it was not for Lee. He held me accountable, expected the most out of me and pushed me to push myself. I played college soccer at Troy University which is a Division 1 University. After college I continued my career to the professional level in Italy. Lee was not only a coach but a mentor and a friend. I achieved what I have achieved so with the help of Lee Bakewell."
GARY FOWLER
Youth Development Manager at Institute FC (Northern Ireland, UK)
"Lee & I coached together for a number of years in the early mid 2000s. Lee is immensely professional and his sessions are always diligently prepared. He has a really great way with players of different ages and current ability and will tailor his approach to help that individual improve. Lee is "real" and by that I mean fair, open and honest. Any young player will get the most from working with him through collaboration. I can't speak highly enough about Lee on both a personal and professional level."