IDA Alum Catch-Up: Jake Jacobi at Virginia Tech

In our latest catch-up with International Development Academy Valencia alum Jake Jacobi, we explore his journey from IDA to competing at the Division I collegiate level with Virginia Tech in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Known for his dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, Jake reflects on how his time at IDA shaped him as a player and how he continues to strive for greatness in college soccer.

Jake credits the training environment at IDA as a pivotal factor in his development. “IDA provided me with the opportunity to train at the highest level every day and learn from highly qualified coaches,” he explains. This rigorous training regime not only honed his skills but also prepared him for the competitive landscape of college soccer.

One of Jake’s favorite things from his time at IDA is the accessibility to the pitch. “Being able to get extra sessions in whenever possible with my roommates was key in my development,” he recalls. This extra practice made a significant impact, emphasizing the importance of commitment and teamwork in reaching one’s goals.

Reflecting on his experiences abroad, Jake highlights the away trips to various cities in Spain as a standout aspect of his time there. “The best thing I did while in Spain has to be our away trips to different cities and playing against top academies,” he says. These experiences not only provided valuable competition but also enriched his understanding of the game and its diverse playing styles.

When asked about his decision to attend Virginia Tech, Jake shares, “I chose Virginia Tech because I wanted to compete at the highest level while earning a degree for the future.” The ACC, known for being the most competitive Division 1 conference in the nation, offers the perfect platform for him to challenge himself against highly ranked teams week after week. Jake describes his first season in the ACC as “detailed and intense,” emphasizing the rigorous preparation that goes into each match. “I enjoy challenging myself every day as a freshman competing with some of the best goalkeepers in the country,” he adds.

Jake’s journey serves as an inspiration for current IDA players aspiring to play at the collegiate level. His advice? “You really have to want it. You need to be proactive emailing coaches and networking to find the school that fits you. You also need to put in the work—whether that’s more time in the gym, on the pitch, or watching film, as that was very important in my development.” This proactive approach is crucial for athletes looking to make their mark in the competitive world of college soccer.

Looking ahead, Jake remains committed to his growth as a player. “To this day, I am still not done learning,” he asserts. He continues to seek out extra training sessions and dedicates time to watching film, utilizing the facilities and coaching available to him at Virginia Tech. His ambition is clear: “I want to be one of the best goalkeepers in the nation and turn pro.” With his determination and work ethic, Jake is well on his way to achieving his goals.

Jake Jacobi’s journey from IDA to Virginia Tech exemplifies the dedication, hard work, and passion required to succeed at the highest levels of soccer. As he continues to develop his skills and chase his dreams, he remains a proud representative of the IDA community, inspiring future generations of players.