David Gates is playfully considered the "younger brother" of the PSA Cardinals coaching family.  He began his coaching career shortly after graduating Louis D. Brandies High School in New York City.  In the next few years he would become one of the most sought after young coaches in the metro area, eventually joining the ProScholars coaching staff at the age of 21.  

 

Growing up in both Harlem and the Bronx, Dave has observed how different life may have been without the solid foundation and positive influences he’s been blessed to have as a PSA Cardinals coach.  Dave has overcome numerous obstacles and been strong enough to avoid falling victim to pressures, distractions and various pitfalls that he witnessed many of his peers succumb to.  His personal testimony of perseverance has driven him to encourage and enlighten our students through the love of basketball and achievement.  

 

Dave’s coaching experience began with the Riverside Hawks 3rd grade team.  With children this young, he found it most important to instill the core of the sport – focusing on fundamentals and skill development.  He enjoyed the parent interaction that came with coaching in that early stage.  He went on to coach at the 6th grade level, deciding he was ready to venture out in search of new beginnings.  He interviewed with Terrance "Munch" Williams, then the Director of "Team Scan".  Dave believed in Munch’s grand vision for the program and admired his devotion to its students and their success.  His decision to join PSA couldn’t have been any easier.

 

Looking forward, Dave’s primary focus is the overall progression of the program.  He is constantly working to expand the program’s legacy and cement it as both the number one academic and athletic program in the country.  His personal goal is to become the number one young recruiter in America.

 

Away from coaching, Dave wears several other hats.  He is a devoted father of two beautiful children - David Gates Jr and Kailey Marie Gates.  Professionally, Dave works as an Operations Manager for a prestigious New York City based security company.